6 Simple Ways to Support Your Immune System
Catching a cold or flu is not a fun time. Studying holistic nutrition gave me some insights on how to support your immune system with foods, and a few lifestyle factors to further help it fight whatever has got you feeling, not-so-good.
This (and all other blog posts) are never health advice, but simply what works for me, to be used for educational purposes.
With that being said, let’s get into it.
Stay hydrated
Water is essential every day. It’s a simple thing to do but it’s easy to forget when you’re not feeling your best.
Start with water. I like to keep warm water around too if I have a sore throat.
Prioritize Relaxation
Relaxing is important when your sick as stress may put stress on your immune system. I do everything I can to create a relaxing environment, to ensure my body can focus on resting and taking care of whatever is going on. Some ideas for this are:
Taking deep breaths
Doing a gentle yoga practice (seated, restorative, yin or yoga nidra)
Reading a book I enjoy
Hanging out with my dog Mila
Showers and post shower body oil
Ginger + Turmeric + lemon Water
Ginger and turmeric are herbs that support the immune system. They are anti-inflammatory and full of nutrients to support your body.
Lemon is supportive to the liver, an essential organ for detoxification. Supporting the elimination of waste.
How I make it:
Grate ginger and turmeric over a mug (you don’t need much, maybe a 1/2 tsp ish or so of each)
Squeeze half a lemon
Fill the mug with warm water
Vegetables and fruits
Eating a colourful variety of vegetables and fruits is so helpful when you’re sick.
I tend to want to eat processed foods when I’m not feeling well, but whenever I focus on whole foods instead, I’ve noticed I feel better and am sick for a shorter period of time.
Getting vegetables and fruits in are going to provide your body with vitamins, minerals and other nutrients to support you getting back to 100%.
Protein rich foods
Protein is always needed. It supports the maintenance of the immune system.
Something I always have when I’m sick or my boyfriend is sick is bone broth. I love bone broth as it’s rich in immune supporting nutrients.
Plus a broth when I’m feeling not my best just makes me happy.
Prioritize sleep
Sleep and getting a deep rest is crucial for recovering. Good sleep leads to good rest, good rest leads to good repair.
Taking extra time to sleep when I can, always helps me recover sooner.
To take away
These are science-backed tips, that support your immune system and overall health. But based on your current situation, your health history, etc, they may not be right for you.
Finding what works for you takes time, and certain things will be more important in certain situations. The best idea is to always work with a health care practitioner when it’s available to you!
For me, prioritizing these things often leads to a shorter time experiencing the sickness and generally less intense symptoms. However, that’s my experience and there are a number of factors that could influence this as well. This works for me, do what works for you!
