Building Immunity Naturally To Stay Healthy

How important is building a healthy immune system? In addition to the standard “cold and flu season”, this year we are also dealing with the Coronavirus outbreak. It is a very scary time for all us, but it’s important not to panic and try not to be paralyzed by the continuous news and hysteria. Of course I am concerned for the health of my family and are taking the appropriate social distancing measures. We are also continuing to do the things that we always do to build our immune systems. Building immunity helps protect you and your family from contracting things like viruses, the common cold, and strep throat.

This is not just about the Coronavirus-its about simple every day things that will hep you and your family stay healthy in general. I wanted to share some of the things we do to help build immunity, keep germs at bay in our house , and avoid getting sick as much as possible. Of course we all get sick sometimes, but If we do it doesn’t last long and is much milder due to practicing some simple prevention.

Here are some of our basics:

1) YOUR DIET MATTERS….EAT HEALTHY:

Your diet really does matter when it comes to staying healthy. Increase your intake of Protein, seasonal fruits and vegetables, healthy grains (things like quinoa, brown rice. and farro) and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods and sugar as much as possible, especially if you feel like you are getting sick or are already sick. Did you know that sugar weakens the immune system? By simply limiting the amount of sugar and processed foods you and your family are eating, you are boosting your immunity. Eat as much real whole food as possible. When in doubt, eat the rainbow!

Here are some healthy, family friendly recipes :

Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry

Simple Grilled Ahi Tuna Steaks

Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Balsamic Glaze

My Top 10 Slow Cooker Recipes

2) WE TAKE VITAMINS:

It’s nearly impossible to get all the nutrition we need from food, so we supplement to maximize and strengthen our immune system. For all of us, our daily fundamental nutrition regimen includes the following:

Multi Vitamin : Our pick for an Adult Multi vitamin and Kids Chewable Multi

Probiotic for both Kids and Adults

Vitamin D3

DO YOU KNOW ABOUT THE GUT BRAIN AXIS?

75% of your immune system is in your gut. Maintaining a healthy microbiome is critical to our overall health. The gut is also our “second brain” and is a major factor in things like stress, sleep, anxiety, and mood. The “Axis” between out gut and our brain is our immune system. We take these supplements daily to maximize our overall health:

Holistic Gut Brain Axis Nutrition (Adults)

Holistic Gut Brain Axis Nutrition (Kids)

WASH YOUR HANDS..A LOT

I know this isn’t revolutionary. But it’s critical in helping not spread germs around. Make sure your kids know to wash their hands several times a day at school, for at least 20 seconds each time, using hot water and soap. If you are out and unable to wash your hands, carry a bottle of hand sanitizer with you.

Holistic Home Remedies

Simple items to keep on hand that help build immunity naturally

Raw Buckwheat Honey:

Buckwheat Honey is hands down the best natural cough suppressant you can find and MUCH BETTER than any over the counter cough medicine you will buy. Keep a jar in your house-you will be so glad you have someone starts that awful nighttime coughing. If you cant find Raw Buckwheat Honey at your local farmers market, I like this one that is available on Amazon

Fun Fact: I was on the Dr Oz Show talking about the benefits of Buckwheat Honey! Check out the clip Here!

– Bragg Apple Cider Vinegar:

Apple Cider Vinegar has many health benefits. Taken daily it aids in digestion, can aid in weight loss, and has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. For a soar throat, mix apple cider vinegar with warm water, lemon, and raw honey to make a soothing tea. Use it to bring down your child’s fever by soaking a pair of socks in apple cider vinegar and cold water ( yes, really!) and have them wear the socks. Repeat 2-3 times if necessary, but it works every single time.

–Elderberry Syrup:

Elderberry Syrup has been proven to prevent or reduce the duration of the flu. Taken daily, it helps strengthen your immune system. We’ve added Elderberry into our daily routine. If you start to feel sick, double the dosage.

TIP: Read the labels. A lot of brands have a lot of added sugar, which defeats the purpose of elderberry syrup in building immunity. Sugar weakens the immune system. I like the Garden of Life Organic Elderberry syrup for both kids and adults