Never Go Without.
Everyone knows the U.S. is caught in the steely grip of a flu smackdown. I’m not saying “epidemic”, because the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) stops short of calling it an epidemic; using instead, “widespread”. With New York’s governor Cuomo declaring a Public Health Emergency, and Boston experiencing a flu crisis, the media has us on alert – and like the spread of the flu itself, panic can quickly follow suit.
I’m not exempt from the panic, although I’m working to keep it low-grade. I confess, I didn’t get a flu shot. But then, I never have. One of my clients got the shot AND the flu; NOT fair.
Be that as it may, it makes sense to do all you can to bolster your defenses. There’s no guarantee, but there is interesting research supporting the benefits of stoking your immune system with nutrients and exercise in the name of evading the smack of the F-word. So add the following to your constant handwashing, antibacterial gel/wipe swiping, and avoidance of public places (that one is TOUGH). Be well!
EAT
- Vitamin C-rich foods: Citrus, green and red bell peppers, strawberries and kiwi, and SURPRISE. . .potatoes!
- Yogurt: The probiotics found in yogurt are “friendly bacteria”; actual superstars in the world of immune support.
- Broccoli, mushrooms, and spinach: Antiviral and antibacterial compounds (diindolymethane) in broccoli, vitamin D, selenium and B-vitamins in mushrooms, and antioxidant vitamins A, C and E in spinach create a powerful (and delicious) immune defense trio.
- Almonds: Vitamin E, the naturally occuring antioxidant found in these tasty morsels is an important nutrient for optimal immune function.
- Garlic: Some research suggests that this odiferous member of the lily family can help prevent colds and/or help the symptoms go away sooner. Suffering a cold weakens your immune defense, so why not include a food that helps fight off what could be a precursor to the F-word?
MOVE
Although the mechanism by which exercise bolsters immunity is not well understood, there are several theories:
- Flushes bacteria out of the lungs.
- Sends antibodies and white blood cells (the bodies defense cells) through the body at a quicker rate.
- The temporary rise in body temperature may prevent bacterial growth.
- Slows the release of stress-related hormones.
References:
http://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2013/t0111_flu_season.html
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/007165.htm
“The Essential Guide to Healthy Healing Foods.” Victoria Shanta Retelny, RD, LDN