Immune Support Now

What should I do to stay healthy right now?

Friends, family, clients...just about everyone is feeling nervous and unsettled while the coronavirus news dominates the headlines. In response to so many questions and even more uncertainty, I hope this offers a bit of reassurance on what we can do...

The simple answer as to what we should be doing is to keep it simple!

We do not know enough about the virus' mechanism of action but for most of us, (that are not immunocompromised or do not have any underlying health concerns), if infected, we are expected to experience minor symptoms and make a full recovery.

So to keep up a robust immune system, in addition to general guidelines that advocate washing hands and improving hygiene, consider the following on how to look after yourself (even more!)...

EAT REAL FOOD

Stick to wholesome real foods packed with vitamins and minerals.

Sounds obvious right? But in times of stress, we tend to grab sugary refined foods and possibly more than needed caffeine...be mindful!

BE SURE TO INCLUDE

PROBIOTICS

Fermented foods full of lactic acid for beneficial gut bacteria

OATS

Powerful source of immune system modulating beta glucans

RAW HONEY

Honey is loaded with antioxidants and has anti-microbial properties that can be effective in combatting harmful microorganisms

MANUKA HONEY

Inhibits the growth of bacteria. Careful if allergic to bees.

GARLIC

Rich in allicin, protecting us from bacterial and viral infections

GINGER

Natural anti-inflammatory properties

PHYTONUTRIENTS

Flavonoid rich foods, boost natural fighter cells and immune function

CHICKEN SOUP (REALLY!)

Amino acid cysteine, found in both chicken and its bone broth, makes chicken effective in boosting immunity

GET MORE REST

Help the body to resist infection, repair any damage and restore good health

DRINK MORE WATER

Stay hydrated. 1-2 litres/day.

Include warm water with honey and lemon or herbal teas now to keep respiratory passages open and clear

CONSIDER SUPPLEMENTS

Higher doses of Zinc, Vitamin C, Vitamin D and B Vitamins may be needed to further support immunity

Cytoplan Immunovite includes 1-3 1-6 beta glucan along with vitamin C, selenium and zinc which contribute to the normal function of the immune system. Beta glucan is a natural form of soluble dietary fibre with a long history of use

Biocare complex of elderberry, sage and beta glucans with vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc which support a healthy immune system, in a convenient and pleasant tasting powder that can be mixed with liquids for flexibility

BetterYou DLux+ Vitamin D+K2 Oral Spray is an optimum strength supplement delivering 3000IU of vitamin D3 alongside 75μg vitamin K2 to support a healthy immune system, healthy bones and blood clotting.

Neal’s Yard Elderberry and Propolis Throat Spray made using a traditional recipe of organic honey, elderberries and propolis. Propolis is used by bees to seal and protect their hives. Combined with antioxidant-rich elderberries and soothing honey.

MY FAVOURITES FOR THE KIDS

Children's Elderberry Complex has been especially designed for children.

Presented as a delicious fruity liquid it can be used in drinks or mixed into foods.

Children's Elderberry Complex also contains zinc and vitamin C.

Used alongside Biocult’s Ecodophilus which capsules can be opened up and sprinkled on yogurts or porridge as well

*NOTE: This is not an ad and I am not compensated for recommending these products. I have been using most of these products before I even qualified as an NT so am recommending them from experience! 😊

NATURAL ANTIBIOTICS, ANTIVIRAL

The following plants, herbs, supplements, and other natural substances have research as well as clinical evidence to support strong antimicrobial properties.

BERBERINE

COLLOIDAL SILVER

ECHINACEA

ELDERBERRY

OLIVE LEAF

OREGANO OIL

NOTE: there are limitations and should not be used in isolation to treat any infection.

Speak to a healthcare practitioner and nutritional therapist for advice on use and dosages.

NATURAL REMEDIES TO TRY AT HOME

HOMEMADE ELDERBERRY SYRUP IMMUNE BOOSTER

Ingredients

3 c boiling Water

1 c fresh elderberries or Elderberry Tea if preferred but use a good brand like Pukka

Pinch of grated ginger or more to taste

1 tsp ground cinnamon; Suryaprana is AMAZING cinnamon

1/2 orange; zest and juice

1/2 lemon juice - more to taste

1/4 c. good honey; manuka even better but add it when cooled down

1 pinch ground cloves – optional

Add all ingredients except the honey to a saucepan. Simmer gently for 20-30 minutes.

Leave to cool slightly, when warm stir through honey.

Place in a glass jar or bottle and store in fridge for up to 3 months.

Use: 1 tbsp per child over 2 per day for children over 3 as preventative.

HOMEMADE TEATREE OIL HAND SANITISER

Ingredients

1 tbsp rubbing alcohol (or even vodka!)

1/2 cup Aloe Vera Juice (for spray recipe) or Aloe Vera Gel (for pump recipe)

10–20 drops of Anti-Bacterial Essential Oils: Tea Tree, Clove, Thyme, Cinnamon, Orange, Lavender, Rosemary, Eucalyptus, Lemongrass, Peppermint, etc..)

Note: be careful with essential oils if sensitive; trial first.

Optional moisturizing ingredients:

1 tbsp of a natural hand lotion you like or use

1 tbsp vegetable glycerine to keep hands soft & moisturized

Pour all of the ingredients into a blender and mix ingredients well.

Pour into airtight container

Store in a cool location out of direct sunlight.

Hope it helps!

Stay healthy...

xChristine