Prevention is better than cure
The old adage “prevention is better than cure” rings true when it comes to avoiding the aches and pains, runny nose, watery eyes, fever and sore throat that signals the start of a cold or worse a bout of flu.
To help ward off these nasties our immune system which is our first line of defence, needs to be strong. Simple steps such as getting adequate sleep, staying hydrated and washing hands regularly all help to keep your immune system in good working order Nourishing your body with the right nutrients is also vital to keep it strong and ready to combat any pesky germs and bugs. Here are some of our favourite immune boosting nutrients that you can easily incorporate into your daily diet:
Turmeric is one of nature’s best known anti-inflammatories, and belongs to the ginger family. It’s bright yellow hue is often used to add colour and spice to cooking but it also has significant antioxidant, antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Turmeric has long been used in ancient medicines systems to treat various illness including respiratory conditions, sore throats and strengthening energy within the body.
On its own turmeric is poorly absorbed by the body and it requires fats or black pepper to help boost absorption. Turmeric can be used in cooking soups or curries or added to warmed milk with honey for a comforting “golden latte”.
Read more about Bioglan HiZorb Turmeric Powder | HiZorb Turmeric Recipes
This amazing sea algae is rich in vitamins and minerals, more than any other plant source on earth. Spirulina stimulates the immune system and improves its ability to fight viral and bacterial infections. This green powerhouse also exhibits anti cancer properties, even more reason to incorporate it into your daily diet.
Add spirulina powder to your favourite green juice or smoothie or use in salad dressings and energy boosting protein balls.
Read more about Bioglan Spirulina | Spirulina Recipes
Acai is an earthy flavoured berry from South America bursting with antioxidants – 22 times more antioxidant power than blueberries in fact! Acai berries are rich in anthocyanins which give the berry it’s deep purple skin and act as antioxidants to help fight free radicals in the body. Acai is often used in smoothie bowls but watch out for the added sugars often found in the commercially prepared juices and frozen purees. For a healthier option, add acai powder to smoothies, yoghurts or cooking and skip the added sugars.
Read more about Bioglan Acai + Berry Powder | Acai Recipes
Coconut oil might not be the first thing you think of in terms of immune boosting nutrients but coconut oil contains a type of fat, lauric acid, that has antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. Perfect for keeping these colds and flu at bay! In addition to this coconut oil may protect against harmful bacteria including listeria, helicobacter pylori and giardia.
Coconut oil is very heat stable can be used in baking, stir fries, raw food recipes and salad dressings. It’s also great as a topical moisturiser to keep your skin’s microbiome in balance.
Read more about Bioglan Coconut Oil | Coconut Oil Recipes
Fire cider is a traditional folk remedy using apple cider vinegar as the base tincture combined with herbs to make a hot, sour, pungent, and sweet drink that helps ward off colds and germs and boosts the metabolism. There is no set formula however most recipes include natural immune boosting ingredients such as horseradish, garlic, ginger, cayenne pepper macerated in raw apple cider vinegar and sweetened with honey.
If drinking down a shot of vinegar with garlic and ginger isn’t your cup of tea, try Bioglan ACV Fire Cider capsules that contain all warming goodness of apple cider vinegar, garlic, ginger and herbs in an easy to swallow capsule.