November 2024 Newsletter

Boost Your Immune System for Cold & Flu Season

As cold and flu season approaches, it’s essential to prepare your body to stay healthy. We believe in supporting your immune system with natural remedies and lifestyle habits that not only help prevent illness but also aid in a quicker recovery if you do get sick. Here are a few tips we recommend:

1. Eat Nutrient-Dense Foods

What you eat plays a huge role in your body’s ability to fight infections. Focus on immune-boosting foods, such as:

Vitamin C-Rich Foods: Boosts immune function and stimulates white blood cell production. (Examples: Oranges, bell peppers, kale, strawberries)
Zinc: Essential for immune cell development and can reduce cold severity. (Sources: Pumpkin seeds, lentils, chickpeas, quinoa)
Garlic & Onions: Both contain antiviral and antibacterial properties to help fend off infections.
Probiotic Foods: Maintain a healthy gut to support a stronger immune system. (Examples: Yogurt, sauerkraut, kefir)

2. Herbs for Immune Strength

These herbs have been used for centuries to strengthen the immune system:

Elderberry: Contains antiviral properties and has been shown to reduce flu symptoms.
Echinacea: Enhances immune function, reducing the likelihood of colds.
Astragalus: An adaptogenic herb that strengthens immunity and protects against infections.
Ginger: Offers anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits.

3. Habits to Strengthen Immunity

Your lifestyle greatly influences immune function. Incorporate these habits:

Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night for optimal repair and recovery.
Hydration: Staying well-hydrated helps flush out toxins.
Exercise: Moderate exercise boosts circulation and helps white blood cells move freely.
Stress Reduction: Chronic stress weakens the immune system.

4. Supplement Wisely

Give your body extra support with these supplements:

Vitamin D: Essential for immune function. (CHF#93)
Probiotics: Support gut health and a balanced immune response. (CHF#16, #35, #35C, or #35PP)
N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC): An antioxidant that boosts glutathione and supports respiratory health.
Colostrum: Improves gut health and provides natural immune support. (CHF#40)
Olive Leaf Extract: Combats infections with antiviral, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. (CHF#49)

Stay healthy this winter season!

Scents You Should Know: EO 24 Fir

Fir essential oil, derived from Siberian Fir needles, offers health benefits with its woodsy aroma and therapeutic properties:

Respiratory Support: Acts as an expectorant to relieve coughs and soothe cold, bronchitis, and sinus symptoms.
Anti-Inflammatory: Eases muscle and joint pain, making it ideal for massage blends.
Immune Support: Antibacterial and antiviral, it helps combat airborne pathogens when diffused.
Emotional Well-being: Grounding and calming, it reduces anxiety, stress, and mental fatigue.

Uses for Fir Essential Oil:

Diffusion: Purify air and support respiratory health.
Massage Oil: Blend with a carrier oil to relieve muscle pain.
Steam Inhalation: Add to hot water for respiratory congestion relief.
Topical Application: Dilute and apply to the chest or sore muscles. (Always dilute for topical use to prevent irritation.)

What’s Up Doc?

Q: How does a Vitamin C IV help my immune system?

· Vitamin C not only helps remove free radicals but stimulates the production of white blood cells needed to fight infection.
· Vitamin C reacts with iron and oxygen to create high concentrations of peroxide in tissues which immune cells use to destroy foreign cells.
· For colds and flu it may help shorten recovery time and lessen symptoms.
· Energy boost with combination of B vitamins.
· Acts as an antihistamine for allergies.