I’m singing the winter blues… and it came to me in the form of a Katy Perry song!
I’m hot and then cold
I’m yes and then no
I’m in and then out
I’m up and then down
My 11 year old son has a cold. And, loving his mama so much, he decided to share it with me. My immune system is very low. Ergo, I catch anything that anyone has to throw at me. I must stand there in the forefront with my baseball glove in hand waiting for the next foul ball. So far, during this awful flu & cold season, my record is 2-2. Damn I’m good.
The flu and cold season usually starts in October and doesn’t end until sometime in April. Unfortunately, there is no cure for the common cold or the flu. But, there are some things that you can do to help boost your immune system before you get sick and even when you do get sick.
Foods that can boost your immune system before you get sick
- Garlic has the ability to increase your resistance to infection and stress. During the holiday season most people feel some sort of stress. Let’s face it, when you’re stressed, you definitely feel worse. Right? Of course I’m right. Try adding more garlic to your diet during this cold and flu season and see how much better you feel.
- Cheese and other dairy products have conjugated linoleic acid, a natural component of dairy fat that have antioxidant and anti-cancer properties.
- Yogurt and other cultured milk products contain probiotics which help boost your immune system. Probiotics are live microorganisms that help fight the bad organisms.
- Vitamin C, found in citrus fruits and fruit juices, can help boost your immune system. You can also find Vitamin C supplements over the counter. Make sure you check with your Dr. before taking any supplements.
- Zinc, found in the meat group and supplements, plays a major role in boosting the immune system.
Foods that help you to heal when you’re sick
- Ginger root used in small portions can help the common cold. It induces sweating and decreases nausea and vomiting. You can add fresh ground ginger root to your tea with a little bit of honey.
- Honey has powerful antimicrobial properties. A teaspoonful topped with lemon juice every couple of hours does wonders for a sore throat.
- Chicken soup helps with nasal congestion, warms you up inside, and tastes great!
- Eating well balanced meals is important at all times. But, more-so when you’re sick.
Other things to do to help boost your immune system
- Eat a well-balanced diet
- Take your daily vitamins
- Wash hands regularly, and then wash again.
- Exercise regularly
- Decrease stress as much as possible. I know, easier said than done.
- Drink lots of fluids, ie. water, juice
- Cut back on unhealthy habits such as alcohol intake and smoking.
These are just suggestions and are not meant to override a doctors advice. You know your own body. Therefore, if your cold or flu symptoms persist or worsen, CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN.
