Stay Healthy this Cold & Flu Season: Natural Remedies for Protection and Relief

Stay Healthy This Cold & Flu Season: Natural Remedies for Protection and Relief

The other day, I was chatting with a friend who mentioned she was already gearing up for her yearly battle with the flu. She shrugged and said, 'I get it every year.' I could feel her frustration—it’s tough to just expect to get sick each year. I told her, 'It doesn’t have to be that way!' There are so many ways to strengthen our immunity and even find quick relief if we do come down with something. After sharing my tips with her, I thought, why not share them with you too? After all, we all deserve a healthy, resilient immune system, right?

As we move into colder months, we’re more likely to be exposed to colds and flu viruses. Catching a bug can feel almost inevitable between holiday gatherings, colder temperatures, and time indoors (like my friend felt). But with a few natural remedies, you can boost your immunity, ward off potential illness, and have a game plan if a cold or flu does find its way to you. Let's explore some simple, effective ways to keep your immune system strong and resilient this season!

Boosting Your Immunity Naturally

A robust immune system is the best defense against colds and flu. By giving your body the right support, you can reduce your risk of getting sick and shorten the duration if you do catch a bug.

1. Fuel with Immune-Boosting Foods

• Citrus Fruits: Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are rich in vitamin C, which can help increase white blood cells to fight infections.
• Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger is also excellent for soothing a sore throat and reducing inflammation.
• Garlic: This powerful herb contains compounds that boost immune cell activity, helping your body fight viruses.
• Green Leafy Vegetables: Spinach and kale are packed with antioxidants and vitamins like A, C, and E that support immune health.

It's most helpful to include these foods daily, if possible. Start your morning with a warm lemon-ginger tea, add a clove of garlic to your dinner, and toss greens into a smoothie or salad.

2. Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated helps maintain your body’s defense mechanisms. Opt for water, herbal teas, and bone broths, which are also gentle on the stomach if you feel unwell.

3. Prioritize Quality Sleep

I know sleep can be a challenge this time of year with holiday parties, family visits, and all the preparations. But getting a good night’s sleep is essential, as it gives your immune system a chance to recharge, making you more resilient to colds and flu. Aim for 7–8 hours each night and try setting up a calming evening routine to help you wind down and make sleep easier.

4. Keep Moving with Gentle Exercise

Regular movement boosts circulation, which can help immune cells move through your body more effectively. Aim for low-intensity activities like walking, yoga, or stretching, which won’t overly tax your system but keep you active and healthy.

5. Adding a Whole Food Supplement like Juice Plus for Immune Support

In addition to eating a balanced diet, adding a whole food supplement like Juice Plus can be an excellent way to boost your immune system naturally. Juice Plus is made from a variety of fruits, vegetables, and berries, offering a convenient way to add more plant-based nutrients to your diet. Here’s how Juice Plus can support your immunity:

Rich in Antioxidants: Juice Plus provides a blend of antioxidants from fruits and vegetables that help protect your cells from oxidative stress, supporting a strong immune defense.

Supports Inflammatory Response: The phytonutrients in Juice Plus may help reduce chronic inflammation, promoting an immune system that's balanced and ready to respond.

Convenient Daily Nutrition: For those with busy schedules, Juice Plus offers an easy way to incorporate a wider variety of nutrients into your diet, especially when fresh produce isn’t readily available.

I’ve been taking Juice Plus for over 13 years, and I rarely catch the seasonal bugs going around—I swear by it! Curious to learn more? Check out Juice Plus HERE

Additional Tips for Staying Healthy

In addition to boosting your immune system, there are a few simple tips you can follow to protect your health:

• Hand Hygiene: Regular handwashing with soap is one of the best defenses against germs.
• Get Some Fresh Air: Open windows periodically to allow fresh air to circulate
• Limit Sugar: Sugar can reduce immune function, so try avoiding processed sweets, especially when you’re under the weather.

 Natural Remedies to Find Relief if You Catch a Cold or Flu

Even with the best prevention tactics, sometimes illness sneaks through. If you feel under the weather, here are some natural remedies to ease symptoms and speed up recovery.

1. Steam Therapy with Essential Oils

Inhaling steam can help open nasal passages, providing relief from congestion. Add a few drops of eucalyptus or peppermint oil to a bowl of hot water, cover your head with a towel, and breathe deeply for 5-10 minutes.

2. Honey and Herbal Teas

Honey has antibacterial properties that can help soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing. Mix a spoonful of honey into warm tea (like ginger or chamomile) for added relief.

3. Elderberry Syrup

Elderberry is known for its ability to shorten cold and flu duration. Take it at the first sign of illness, as it may help you recover faster.

4. Saltwater Gargle

If a sore throat is bothering you, gargling with warm salt water several times a day can reduce inflammation and ease pain. Mix 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, gargle, and spit out.

5. Rest and Listen to Your Body

Perhaps the most underrated remedy is allowing yourself to rest. Resist the urge to “power through” your day, and instead, give your body the time it needs to recover.

Final Thoughts

This season, take charge of your health with natural strategies to keep colds and flu at bay. By focusing on boosting your immunity and having a remedy plan, you’ll be prepared to handle whatever comes your way. With these tips in hand, you’ll stay resilient, well, and ready to enjoy the beauty of the colder months and the holiday season.