AND NOW ITS SWINE FLU

The media is full of stories about the new strain of flu that is currently sweeping the world and there are fears of a possible pandemic - the swine flu. Every year we are faced with a more virulent flu than the last one. BUT whatever strain of flu is going around, not everyone gets sick? Why is that? The answer - A healthy immune system! Our amazing immune system consists of special cells whose sole purpose is to defend us against invasion by bacteria, viruses, allergens and parasites. We are in constant contact with many kinds of potential invaders at home, at work, on the train, in the gym, and almost everywhere. With winter just around the corner our immune system will be working overtime to protect us from many of these viruses such as those that cause the common cold and the flu.

What weakens your immune system?
 * Physiological, psychological and/or emotional stress reduce your resistance to infection
 * Lack of regular exercise
 * Lack of sleep, rest and relaxation
 * Poor diet
 * Nutritional deficiencies

What can you do to keep your immune system in top condition?
 * Eat a balanced diet high in fibre and complex carbohydrates, low in fat, with moderate amounts of protein. Eat fresh, wholesome, and unprocessed foods. Remember infections thrive on sweet and sugary foods.
 * Manage stress. It can have a negative effect on the immune system.
 * Enjoy plenty of rest to give your body time to repair itself and fight off attacks from viruses.
 * Exercise regularly. It reduces inflammation and can support healthy immunity.
 * Increase water intake.
 * Supplement your diet with recommended nutrients and herbs to boost immune function.

Remember antibiotics do not kill viruses. Fortunately there are many natural supplements that can help support and boost your bodys immune system. Herbs such as Echinacea, Elderberry and Garlic are known to help fight infection and improve immunity. Zinc and Vitamin C are also important nutrients in strengthening the immune system. They can help prevent the symptoms and reduce the severity of the common cold and flu.

What else can you do?
  * Wash your hands before preparing food or touching your face
 * Always clean tabletops before preparing food
 * If possible, avoid crowds or contact with anyone with flu-like symptoms.
 * If its cold, rug up
 * Cover your mouth when sneezing or coughing. Stay home if you are sick. Dont spread it!
 * Dispose of your tissues thoughtfully
* Ginger, garlic, chili and horseradish are all traditional warming foods that will help you through a cold. Include these in your diet
 * Soups are great, but avoid those with cream, cheese or milk. Make broths from vegetables, fish, chicken or beef stock then add vegetables, onions, garlic, and beans.
 * Drink plenty of fluids - at least 8 glasses of water a day. Hot and clear fluids can activate your lymphatic system and thin out mucus.
 * Avoid alcohol. It exacerbates inflammation.
 * Avoid smoking.
 * Avoid milk, dairy products and sugar - they increase mucous during an infection. Sugar is known to lower your immune system. Use a little bit of raw honey instead.
 * If you feel feverish make a cup of Immune Zinger, rug up and sweat it out. Repeat as often as possible until symptoms have passed. A hot bath can also induce sweating.

CHECK OUT OUR WINTER RECIPES TO FIGHT THE COLD AND FLU!

And for the kids, there are great tasting herbs and vitamins to boost their immune system too!

The effectiveness of a remedy always depends on the right dose and the quality of the herbs and nutrients. Self-prescribing can be dangerous since it can interact with other drugs. your practitioer is qualified to prescribe the right remedies that are individually tailored for your needs. At Nurtured we always use good qualtiy practitioner only products.