It's that time of the year again and I am one of those who is trying to stave off the flu. I feel it; it's there - scratchy throat, a little stuffy, some body aches and a headache here and there. But so far, so good. As you should know by now, Maggie is one who likes to live life as naturally as possible. That includes how she eats, what she puts onto her skin and hair and how she combats disease. Here are some effective ways to keep that nasty virus away by fighting it with the shields and swords of vitamins, minerals and nutrients, all contained naturally in what we eat and drink.
If you are already experiencing symptoms and it is Day 1 or, at the furthest out, Day 2, run (do not walk) to your nearest drug store. Ideally, the best time to kill a virus that has made it past the first string of warriors is when you begin to feel the symptoms. Otherwise, you may still get sick, but taking the following measures will sharply reduce your illness.
First, purchase Cold-Eez zinc lozenges. I say Cold-Eez because it's readily available and has worked for me in the past (like you wouldn't believe). Research has shown that zinc boosts the immune system in a big way - but don't overdo it. Research has also shown that we need only 15 mg per day of the stuff; anything over that could actually suppress our immune system. So do it right, ok? Nipping your illness in the bud with zinc can actually chase it away. Starting it after you have your full-blown illness will reduce the amount of time you are ill. It may also reduce the effects of the illness. For more great info on zinc, go to this link and this link. Remember that zinc is found in a daily vitamin like Centrum. You may need a bit more (but not more than 15 mg/day) when you are coming down with something. Follow directions properly on items such as Cold-Eez.
Echinacea is also a great method of fighting illness. This beneficial herb is found in the root of the Purple Coneflower plant and has been used for centuries to combat colds and flu symptoms. Echinacea is so widely used today that you can find the supplement in the grocery store, drug store and, of course, in health food stores. Warning: If you are already on antibiotics, check with your doctor first before starting Echinacea. If you are taking steroids, such as prednisone, again, check with your doctor. It is usually not recommended to take Echinacea if you are already taking either of these medicines. For additional information on Echinacea, click here and, for real nerds, click here, where you can read not only about boosting the immune system, but also about some of its other benefits, such as accelerant healing in skin grafts and treatment of a variety of inflammatory skin conditions such as wounds, eczema, burns, and Herpes simplex.
Finally, mushrooms (yes, mushrooms!) have been proven to assist our immune system and to help prevent cancer. They also act as anti-aging heros (which makes them a huge hero in my book!). I often hear people remark, "I thought mushrooms had no nutritional value; they're just a fungus that tastes good." And, I might also add, they provide shade for toads on a hot summer's day and a stool for those darling little sun worshipping amphibians. Take these wonderfully variant edibles seriously and start adding them to your soups, salads and chilis, to name a few dishes. You will be glad you did. For more information on the health benefits of mushrooms, click here.
Other methods of keeping our immune system happy during cold and flu season are:
- drink at least two glasses of orange juice a day;
- drink at least 3 cups of green tea a day. Now don't wince; a lot of green teas are flavored these days. One of my favorites is Republic of Tea's Goji Raspberry Green Tea. Not only do I get a nicer flavor and the full benefits of a green tea, but I also get the benefits afforded me by the raspberry and Goji berry.
- drink 8-8 oz. glasses of water per day. It really is easier to do than you think.
- Take a multi-vitamin daily.
- Get fresh air, take walks and bundle up when it's really cold out there. You'll feel great when you come back home.
- On kinder, milder days, turn down the heat and open your windows for 30 minutes. Air the place out!
- Avoid fast food and processed food - ALWAYS. You may be surprised at what is processed food (more on that in another edition of Maggie's Health and Beauty Tips).
- Get to the health food store and get some Green Magma or try Garden of Life's Perfect Food Berry. I drink this everyday and feel great. It's great for the skin and hair as well.
- Keep your stress at a minimum - easier said than done. I know this to be so true of myself and something I struggle with daily.
- Above all, be happy. It helps us to maintain good health. Find joy in small things and throw the garbage away into imaginary trash bins.
Copyright 2008 liamsgrandma