A Perfect Storm

Good nutrition is important every day of the year, but it's especially important when we're faced with environmental and seasonal challenges to our routines and health. The holidays bring about joy for some and stress for others. Along with the rush of holiday shopping, gatherings, budgets, and the seasonal festivities, we deal with cold and flu season starting up. It's an annual affair that strikes at precisely the wrong time — a perfect storm, if you will. It can be so easy to let our guard down during this time of year with so much going on and so many temptations in front of us. That's why we need to double down and take necessary precautions to insure a safe, healthy, and enjoyable holiday season with minimized stress and sickness. Making healthy food choices is a habit that often takes some time to develop. Once we realize how much better we feel eating clean, all-natural foods it becomes easier and easier. We also improve our immune systems by eating healthier foods which helps us avoid the nasty consequences of colds and flu. We might not be able to avoid sickness completely, but a healthy gut can certainly mitigate the effects.

This is where certain strategically chosen foods can help. Organ meats, homemade bone broths, and fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kombucha, etc. can be a huge boost to our overall nutrition and act as a supercharger for our immune systems. If you find yourself feeling under the weather, consider adding some other items to the list. 1. Chicken Soup - Grandma was right when she made chicken soup for colds. Not only does it warm the insides, but it's anti-inflammatory. 2. Garlic - well-known anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties makes this a no-brainer. 3. Citrus fruits and Berries - Vitamin C and Quercetin have been shown to have multiple health benefits including antioxidant qualities and reduction in cold symptoms. 4. Hydrate - Water helps flush toxins from the body and keeps us from becoming dehydrated. Remember, too much of anything can cause problems though. Find a good naturopathic or holistic doctor to find out what's best for you.
 

Well Wishes,  Team USWM