Natural Ways to Boost Your Immunity to Dodge the Cold & Flu Season

Besides the flu, colds make their rounds during the change of seasons when these microorganisms flourish, so it’s up to you to be vigilant and protect yourself. Thankfully, there are natural ways you can help boost your immunity and lessen your chances of getting sick this winter. How many times during the winter months do you usually get sick? Let me know in the comments below, and let me know any natural tricks you use to combat illnesses. Here are a few of my favorite ways…

Use probiotic power

With all we now know about the gut biome, eating foods with probiotics is the best way to help keep your immunity strong. Kombucha, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut are just a few probiotic foods to help you out. Make sure you’re always eating plenty of fiber too to help that gut bacteria thrive. If you'd prefer a probiotic supplement instead, there are loads of wonderful ones to choose from to make sure you're getting your daily probiotic needs.

Eat right Unfortunately, during this time of increase stress and restriction our diets are out of balance. Balance it out by eating plenty of fruits and vegetables that are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidant-rich foods are immune boosters that will keep your system fighting all season long. Another warming winter food that will make your soups healthier is bone broth which you can sneak into your family’s diet without them ever knowing. Start sprouting with the increase of warmer weather to add powerhouse nutrients [ LEAVE OUT IF VEGAN ]

Think zinc The more vitamins you have in your foods this season, particularly vitamin C, the more immunity you’ll have. However, zinc is often forgotten for the powerhouse that it is. Zinc can help stop a cold’s cells from replicating and is a powerful tool to have in your wellness arsenal this season and beyond. You can eat more zinc in spinach, nuts, beans, and pumpkin seeds. There are also zinc supplements you can take daily, or when you're feeling a cold coming on.

Balance activity and sleep When the germs are swirling around, be sure you’re getting enough exercise as well as getting enough sleep. Compromising on either one can jeopardize your immunity. With the days changing and quite cold evening, getting in bed earlier isn't a hard thing to do! Sanitize with lavender oil Soap and warm water are always best for cleaning your hands, but when you’re nowhere near a sink, try lavender oil. It smells great, keeps away germs naturally, and keeps your hands soft and supple even in the ever changing spring weather.

Keep it clean We know hands should be clean and kept from our eyes, nose, and mouth, but don’t forget about those things you use every day that can be contaminated with ease. Your phone, keyboard, desk, and door handles are prime examples. Want one that isn’t full of chemicals? Add purified water and distilled vinegar to a spray bottle in equal parts, and then add a few drops of tea tree oil. Spray away!

There are too many fun events you won't want to miss over these Spring months, and there's no time to spend being sick in bed. Use these natural immunity boosters to live life to the fullest during change of season!