Cold & Flu Fighters
Some of us may not want to admit it, but autumn is here. Along with crisp apples, colorful foliage and cool rains come cold and flu germs. Here are some well-known and well-researched popular picks for helping you to stay healthy. Just about all of us here in the Northwest would benefit from The Sunshine Vitamin, VITAMIN D, this time of year to help brighten our mood, but vitamin D is also an important immune enhancer. VITAMIN C is a wintertime staple that helps to increase the number and efficacy of our immune systems white blood cells. The immune-boosting mineral, ZINC, is also a good choice. Always keep zinc gluconate lozenges handy to take at the first sign of a cold since these little gems are actually quite effective. Many also contain vitamin C for an added boost.
PROBIOTICS are the friendly flora which mainly inhabit our gut, but are found throughout the body. They are responsible for about 70% of our immune response. Its best to have a reserve built up before exposure to cold and flu viruses, so start taking them early in the season.
Herbs are rich in nutrients, antioxidants and other beneficial compounds and these herbs are particularly good at this time of year. Immune-enhancing ELDERBERRY is a superb antiviral that also reduces fever and soothes the respiratory tract. In addition, it comes in many forms: capsules, tinctures, lozenges. Plus, because they are so delicious, syrups and liquid concentrates may be especially good for children. ASTRAGALUS is an immune tonic herb that protects the immune system, but do not take it if you have a fever. Another wintertime staple, ECHINACEA, increases immune defense against a variety of viruses and bacteria.
GUAIFENESIN is an expectorant that thins mucous and can alleviate/prevent sinusitis. Be advised that aspirin interferes with guaifenesins action. Lastly, OREGANO OIL can alleviate and/or accelerate recovery from colds as well as alleviating asthma and bronchitis. It is also good against a variety of bacteria, viruses and fungi to help you stay healthy all year long.
When it comes to cold and flu, an ounce of prevention is definitely
worth a pound of cure. At Evergreen Nutrition wed like to help you stay
healthy this winter and all year long. Please stop by the store to take
advantage of our Cold & Flu Seasonal Specials.
From Evergreen’s Archive: October 2012
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