Vitamin C more than ever we are taking a closer look at our health and ways to avoid
sickness. Below are a few natural remedies to incorporate into your daily
routine to help strengthen your immunity during flu and cold season.
Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin found naturally in vegetables and fruits, especially oranges and other citrus fruits. If you want to avoid the sugar from fruit, chewable Vitamin C tablets make it easy to get in your daily dose without any prep or sugar. You can also incorporate more Vitamin C rich vegetables into your diet. Red bell peppers contain almost 3 times as much vitamin C as an orange. Some other foods high in Vitamin C are broccoli, spinach, and tomatoes.
Zinc is a powerful mineral that plays a similar role to vitamin C in that it helps cellular repair and growth, as well as immune strength. Evidence suggests that if zinc lozenges or syrup are taken within 24 hours after cold symptoms start, the supplement can help shorten the length of colds.
Zinc is also found naturally in shellfish, meat, dairy products, nuts and whole grains.
Elderberries are still being researched, but some studies suggest this dark purple berry may help reduce flu and common cold symptoms by four days. Not only is the berry high in Vitamin C, but also rich in Flavonols and Anthocyanins which are anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties.
You can find elderberry supplements at most any grocery store in the form of a lozenge or a syrup but to ensure you’re getting the highest value properties of the elderflower, see if you have a local herbalist in your area who makes fresh & potent elderberry syrup.
Ginger is full of anti-inflammatory properties that help the immune system fend off bacteria and viruses. There are a couple ways to take ginger.
Try adding fresh ginger to your smoothie or steep into hot water with your favorite tea. It is also available in tablets or drinks.
Echinacea There is some scientific evidence that indicates Echinacea affects our immune system by stimulating the activity of white blood cells.
Some of these studies also report Echinacea can help speed up recovery time after a cold as well as prevent its onset. Echinacea can also be used on a regular basis to help strengthen the immune system and is available in a tincture, lozenges or as tablets.
