Chills, sneezing, achy joints; you have got the winter bug it seems. Having an illness or even just winter allergies is one of the least fun things that you have to deal with during a time that is filled with some of the year’s biggest holidays.
No one wants to be the party pooper at an event, but when you are down and out with winter allergies, well… it’s hard to be all smiles and full of cheer – right?
The best way to prevent having to deal with a flu, allergies, or cold during the jolliest time of the year is to prevent them from coming on in the first place. It is also a good idea to have an arsenal of natural remedies as backup that you can turn to when signs of any sickness or allergic reaction start to appear.
Thankfully, nature has some pretty tasty foods that can help us all do just that. Certain foods contain just the right vitamins, minerals, or macro-nutrients that our bodies need to feel their best.
Here are some of the best:
1) SWEET POTATOES:
Sweet potatoes are full of beta-carotene, (which is indicated by their glowing orange hue), that turns to Vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A helps to fight free radicals that weaken the immune system and can also help improve your liver health to benefit you further. High quantity of Vitamin C are also found in sweet potatoes, which help scavenge up free radicals, along with strengthening the overall immunity. Eat a sweet potato a few times a week to get the benefits. Try sweet potato soup, baked sweet potato, and even a sweet potato hummus or smoothie.
2) CARROTS
Carrots are also full of Vitamin C and Vitamin A, which offer up the same benefits as sweet potatoes. Carrots have also been linked to improving even the most serious diseases such as cancer and heart disease. They are also helpful for clearing out excess mucus from the body and excellent for combating a low mood that can come when you are not feeling well. Enjoy them in a freshly squeezed Cream of Wild Rice Vegan Soup, Carrot juice, Carrot Miso Soup (which offers even more healing benefits).
3) SPINACH
Spinach is a virtuous source of Vitamins E, K, A, C and even a few B vitamins too. It might as well have superfood tattooed on its leaves! Spinach also gives proteins to support the body and help strengthen the overall function of bodily organs. Whether eaten raw or cooked, spinach is also a good source of iron and its natural Vitamin C will help increase the uptake of iron in your body to improve your red blood cell function. Vitamin E helps stave off free radicals and Vitamin K helps with overall healthy blood flow, crucial to overall immunity of the body. Try a detox spinach soup for healing and nutrition, or just add a few spinach leaves to your morning smoothie!
4) GREEN TEA
Green tea has many healing benefits, starting with the way it lowers inflammation in the body and boosts immunity. When drank warm, the beverage also helps clear out sore throat, excess mucus, and aids in overall cleansing. Green tea is also a great source of the amino acid L-theanine, which helps you lower stress both mentally and physically. You should have atleast three to four cups (decaf also works) of plain green tea in your day when you are not feeling well. Add a squeeze of lemon for extra Vitamin C, cleansing benefits, and flavor. Also add some herbal teas to your routine for even more healing benefits.
5) FRESH VEGETABLE JUICE
Freshly squeezed vegetable juice is one the most healing tonic you can consume. Forget using them for detox diets – they are a true wellness virtue to be enjoyed. Tomato juice, Green juice, and Carrot juice are all packed with antioxidants. These foods that can be hard to force down if you are not feeling your best can be consumed in the form of juices. Having some freshly squeezed vegetable juice will strengthen your immunity and deliver nutrients when your body needs them the most.
FEW GENERAL TIPS FOR WINTER ALLERGIES
• Give salt water a go
• Kick off your shoes and work clothes as soon as you get home
• Take your workout indoors
• Wear a mask for outdoor chores
• Take allergy symptoms seriously