By taking a few easy steps we can help our bodies fight off seasonal colds and bugs.
Eat well, drink well
Swap cooked vegetables for lightly steamed or raw ones to maximise their nutritional value. Instead of reaching for the carton of commercially made bottled juice, make your own, adding a wheatgrass shot for a super-powered boost. The king the superfoods, it contains particularly high levels of vitamins A and E, 92 minerals (out of the 102 we need), 21 amino acids (out of a possible 24) and over 80 enzymes.
Increase immunity-boosting foods
Foods that contain high levels of vitamins A, C, and E increase the production of infection-fighting white blood cells and antibodies. Try kale in salads or try juicing it for a shot of goodness.
Garlic strengthens the immune system and helps to fight chest infections, coughs and congestion.
Vitamins A, C, and E all help the body produce T-cells which produce antibodies that destroy cold bacteria. Make sure your diet is rich in citrus fruit, strawberries, broccoli, peppers and Brussels sprouts.
Ensure you’re never dehydrated
If you let yourself become dehydrated your body is already under stress and your immune system will be weakened. Aim for 1.5 to 2 litres of water a day. The good news is that juicing can help you reach this recommended level of hydration.
Negative stress = weakened immune system
Research has shown that those with chronic stress (particularly personal difficulties with friends or family) were more than twice as likely to become ill. Managing stress levels can be difficult but small changes can have a big effect. Write down, then cross out, the stresses that you have no control over. Get plenty of good quality sleep: the immune system can only thrive when we’re well rested.