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Health & Fitness
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 Are you concerned for your family's health with regards to all this ‘flu' talk? When one of the family goes down with a cold do you all get sick? Well although there is not a lot we can do about what ‘bugs' we may be exposed to...there is a lot we can do to increase our defense against such infections so we are not as susceptible. We have this amazing thing called our immune system which exists for no other reason than to form a protective barrier or a ‘suit of armour' against any infection viral, bacterial or otherwise. The problem is that for many of us our ‘suit of armour' has become as thin as glad wrap, perhaps through recent illness, stress, certain medications or just because we don't look after ourselves as well as we could. A tired, weakened immune system may not have the ‘defensive forces' to fight off an infection where as a strong immune system will be resilient and resistant to any infectious attack regardless. So how do we make sure our immune system is strong enough? Here are some simple steps.....
- Herbal immune boosters: Herbs such as Andrographis and Echinacea have been shown to kill the pathogens which cause the common cold and the flu reducing both the duration and severity. Their ability to strengthen the immune system while also being antiviral and antibacterial means they can help both treat and prevent! However be aware that many over the counter brands contain poor quality herbs that lack the key active constituents. With Echinacea look for a combination of Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea augustifolia, using the root part of the plant. Ideally check with a Natural Therapist for a recommended brand.
- Zinc is the most important mineral for immune function and is a common deficiency leading to a weaker immune response and predisposing you to a more severe infection. With dietary sources becoming scarcer, supplementation is often recommended. A Zinc tally test can indicate if you need zinc.
- Vitamin C is a well known but clearly underestimated vitamin. A powerful antiviral agent whilst also having the benefits of being antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and is gently detoxifying. If you are susceptible to colds and flus in Winter, aim for at least 1gram a day in divided doses increasing the dose to 2 to 3g at the first sign of infection.
- Probiotics - 70% of our immune system is actually in the gut so it is important to address any regular symptoms or health issues in this area. Most of us will benefit from doing a course of probiotics every few months to ensure balance in the gut flora and improving our immunity.
- Remember excessive exercise, stress, fatigue, lack of sleep and sugary foods and drinks are some of the things that can deplete our immune system so the healthier you are the stronger your immune system.
- Personal hygiene should always be practiced.
- If you do get sick try to stay at home and minimize spreading it around!
Remember the media is very good at instilling fear and panic - we should believe in our body's ability to protect and heal itself provided we look after it!! Common sense and optimal health will often prevail. Yours in Wellness Simone Please visit Simone’s website for more information: |
