Winter is coming: Tips to naturally strengthen your immune system

Naturally Nutritious

A diverse diet filled with healthy food is the foundation of general health and wellbeing. If you’re beginning your battle against winter equipped with healthy eating habits, you’re already in a good position, and building on those habits will only boost your immunity further. It’s best to go for foods that are in season. Not only are they more affordable, they’re also nature’s way of providing you with the right nutrients you need for this time of year.

Fruit and veges are the beginning, but they’re certainly not the end. Wholegrains and protein have a huge impact on your immune system too, so it is important to include enough of them in your diet. Including more protein could be as simple as adding a scoop of protein powder to your breakfast smoothie.

Our Top Natural Ingredient Picks for Winter Wellness

Vitamin C needs little introduction. As one of the most famous vitamins for boosting immunity, it’s a must-have in your winter arsenal. What many people don’t realise is that the body doesn’t produce it for itself. This is why it’s so important you get enough of this vitamin, either through your diet or a supplement.

Echinacea is highly regarded for its ability to quickly support immunity against the common cold and can help to reduce the severity and duration of colds. Echinacea can also assist in the symptomatic relief of mild respiratory tract infections.

There’s a medicinal plant, native to South Africa called Pelargonium Root. This cold and flu fighting plant is used for upper respiratory infections including bronchitis, sinusitis, sore throats, tonsillitis and the common cold.

Astragalus is regarded as an immune tonic because it has restorative and strengthening effects, keeping your immune system strong and healthy.

Olive Leaf is well known for strengthening the immune system because of its strong antiviral properties. It also gives your immune system additional antioxidant support.



EpiCor^® is a unique, clinically researched, natural ingredient that strengthens the immune system and starts working in two hours to fight your winter ills and chills. Learn more about this amazing natural ingredient here.

Vitamin D is the sunshine vitamin; even though we may feel like we have plenty of sunshine in the summer – we’re often deficient in this vitamin, especially in winter. Commonly known for keeping bones strong, it is also well known for its effective immune strengthening benefits.

Colostrum tastes pleasantly like milk and packs a serious punch against viral and bacterial infections. It is full of naturally occurring immune factors that are needed to support a healthy immune response, plus, it’s ideal for both adults and children.

The bees are on to something here… Propolis (also known as bee glue) is an amazing substance honey bees create to protect the hive from diseases occurring inside of it. It has a similar positive effect on the human body (our hive)!

Relax

We talk about nutrients, vitamins and minerals to support your immune system, but there are some lifestyle choices you can make too. High stress levels weaken your immune system. Sometimes you can’t eliminate all the causes of stress in your day-to-day life, but listen to your body and when it ‘asks’ for time off, don’t ignore it. Activities like reading, having a bath, walking, running, yoga, pilates and meditation can be effective in releasing tension and stress.

Catch Some Quality ‘Z’s

Sleep is vital for both your mind and body. It’s preferable to get between seven to eight hours of sleep per night. This gives your body a chance to rest, repair and keep that immune system of yours strong and ready to defend against any nasty invaders.

The Guts of it

They say we are what we eat. That’s a pretty accurate statement when it comes to your immune system, as approximately 70% of it lives in your digestive tract. Think about what you’re consuming, as certain nutrients will help maintain healthy digestion. Eating plenty of probiotic foods that are fermented such as, yoghurt, kefir, kombucha drinks, fermented soy – (tempeh and miso), as well as kimchi and sauerkraut will help to feed and nourish your digestive tract and enhance your immune system.

Amazing Anti-inflammatory Foods

Inflammation is part of the body’s immune response, without it, we can’t heal. When you catch a cold, your immune system kicks into gear by sending white blood cells to help fight off bacteria, infections and viruses.

When you’re sick, eating anti-inflammatory foods will allow your body to heal and recover faster. Foods which reduce inflammation include leafy greens and green powders (spinach, bok choy, silverbeet, kale, barley grass, wheat grass, chlorella, spirulina), fish, turmeric, raw nut butters, raw apple cider vinegar and ginger… just to name a few.



Although winter isn’t here yet, now is a great time to start strengthening your immune system, preparing it for the cold and flu season ahead. By being proactive, you can give your body the boost it needs to stay healthy this winter.