BY DR. ANDREA PURCELL
The cold and flu season is upon us and I’m here to help.
There are over 200 viruses that can cause a cold. The typical duration of cold symptoms last for 4-10 days and it is an infection that lives in our upper respiratory tract.
When it comes to colds and flu the best defense is a good offense. Having a well-stocked natural medicine cabinet and you are prepared!
HERE ARE MY TOP 3 FAVORITE IMMUNE BOOSTERS:
- Zinc is an essential mineral for boosting immune function. Zinc is one of the top three most common mineral deficiencies people have. Zinc kills off viruses and bacteria and strengthens immune function. With adequate zinc levels you can prevent the development of future illnesses. Dose 30mg/day with food
- Vitamin C is one of my favorite nutrients. We are the only mammal that does not produce Vitamin C. That means we need to get it from our diet. Vitamin C helps fight off cold and flu bugs, by speeding up white blood cell recovery time. The recommended daily allowance for Vitamin C is 65mg. If we are going to use Vitamin C for body repair and immune boosting we need much higher amounts, anywhere from 1,000-10,000mg per day. Dose 2,000mg 2 x day
- Elderberry Syrup– Elderberries have been used by herbalists for decades as an effective remedy for bacterial and viral infections. Elderberry has the ability to shorten the duration and severity of an illness. Elderberries are extremely high in vitamin C and flavonoids which are powerful immune boosters. In addition, they are very beneficial for respiratory issues and coughs and can help loosen congestion in the lungs. Dose 1 tablespoon daily
BONUS! Whip up these recipes for an extra boost to your immune system:
Garlic-y Guacamole
1 avocado
2 large cloves garlic crushed
½ lime juiced (approx. 1 tablespoon)
1/8 tsp sea salt
Mash and eat with cucumber slices, gluten free crackers or on GF toast.
Immune Soup
2 boxes chicken (or vegetable) broth
1 Large chopped onion
5 cloves garlic crushed
1-2 inches chopped ginger
Boil for 30 minutes, strain, drink broth during the day like tea.
