It’s that time of year when our immune systems are being challenged, so I wanted to share some simple things that are likely already in your kitchen that could support your immune health:
- Support your mucous membranes: our mucosa (in our nose, mouth, lungs, and gut) help to protect from bacteria and viruses. Foods and herbs that create “mucilage” action are great at keeping your mucous membranes moist and healthy, such as ground flaxseed, oatmeal, and chia seeds.
- Maximize warming foods rich in vitamins and minerals, with a homemade veggie stock or bone broth. Take it up another level by adding Roots to Branches’ Change of Season Soup herbal mixture.
- Nourish your gut flora with fermented foods such as sauerkraut and kimchi. If you’re opting for fermented foods such as yogurt or kefir during the cold seasons, I’d suggest adding a touch of cinnamon or ginger to give it more warming properties.
- Utilize kitchen spices with immune activity such as thyme, rosemary, and oregano. You can use these to add to your soups, and stews, make a herbal tea, or in your crockpot or stovetop for a herbal steam. Ginger and turmeric are other favourites for this time of year.
- Take advantage of the Allium family, including garlic and onions (as well as leeks, chives, etc), as they contain sulphuric compounds that have antimicrobial activity. If these foods irritate your digestive system, you can infuse them in oils, vinegars, or try lightly roasting/steaming them instead of ingesting raw.
Our team at Roots to Branches wants to support your immune health in the cold weather and beyond. Book an appointment with one of our team members HERE.
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