As most of you know, cold and flu season is just around the corner.  Unfortunately, it seems as if the “stomach bug” has already shown its face in many people’s homes.  I’m sure you’ve also seen all the signs for flu shots in your area. While I won’t be getting a flu shot, I will be practicing preventative tips to protect myself from the flu.  Here are ways to keep your immune system strong this season:

Tips for Protecting Your Health During Cold/Flu Season:

• Get plenty of Vitamin D: Most people are deficient in vitamin D.  Unfortunately, one wouldn’t know this unless they got their vitamin D levels tested. I know, I say this a lot, but it is extremely important to know your vitamin D levels.  I get mine checked at least twice a year. Optimal vitamin D levels are: 55-65 ng/mL. A deficiency of vitamin D triggers infections, autoimmune diseases (multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease), cardiovascular disease, and cancer.  Optimal vitamin D levels are known to be more effective in preventing the flu than a flu vaccine. The best source of vitamin D: sunshine! It’s important to get out and enjoy at least 10-15 minutes of sun per day (without sunscreen). As winter approaches, and it becomes harder to get natural sunlight, it may be necessary to take a daily vitamin D supplement.  Many people even need a supplement during the summer; again, why it’s so important to get your levels checked! 
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• Eat Healthy: Everyone knows it’s important to eat healthy, but I think that most people underestimate the power that food has on the immune system.  If you’re eating healthy and are exposed to certain illnesses, you have a great chance of not catching it. Foods to enjoy are:
  • Organic fruits & vegetables
  • Fermented foods such as kombucha, yogurt, etc.
  • Organic, pastured meats & eggs (including 100% grass-fed beef)
  • Healthy fats, such as coconut oil, olive oil, avocados, nuts.
  • Avoid sugar, especially refined sugars. Sugar weakens the immune system.  If you need sweeteners, use raw honey, maple syrup, & stevia.
    • Raw honey has antibacterial, antifungal, & antiviral properties (LOCAL raw honey is best, especially for allergies)
  • 1 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar per day
  • Supplements: Vitamin D (depending on your levels), probiotic, elderberry, fermented cod liver oil or another purified source of omega-3 fatty acids
• Get plenty of sleep: 7-8 hours per night is ideal
• Exercise: Increases your resistance to illness
• Stay stress-free! Find ways to manage your stress to keep your immune system strong.  Try yoga, prayer, meditation, talking to a friend, whatever works for YOU.

Even if you still get sick doing all of these tips, your symptoms will be a lot milder than if you weren’t following these healthy guidelines.

Praying your family enjoys a sick-free fall and winter!