Personally, I love the fall, I love the cooler temperatures, the leaves changing color, bond fires, cozy sweaters, boots, stews and soups. Unfortunately, with the weather change comes the possibility of getting a cold.
Studies have shown evidence that exposure to colder temperatures suppresses the immune system which increases the opportunity for infection. Mom was right when she told us to dress warmly or to not leave the house with wet hair. Other common causes of catching a cold include: lack of sleep, mental emotional and chemical stresses, unhealthy digestive tract from overeating, eating a high sugar high carb diet and stresses with traveling.
Thank goodness there are some healthy cold remedies to help you get better quick!
Foods that help heal the funk
We always reach for chicken soup. Homemade is always better, my Abuela had it right. She makes the best chicken soup. If you don’t have your grandma around to make her famous healing soup, you can use already made broth. chicken or beef Broth — Throw in some fresh garlic and onions and veggies and meat of your choice. This nutrient rich food is full of amino acids and minerals that naturally support your immune system. Water- hydration can help. If you are feeling a little off, you might actually be dehydrated. Every cell in your body needs water. Flush out the toxins that can build up in your body with purified water and spring water. We suggest drinking both. Purified water is great but can cause your body to flush out minerals and electrolytes, so add a lemon wedge or a pinch of sea salt whenever you drink it to help replenish the loss of vital nutrients. Spring water has a great amount of minerals but some sources are questionable when it comes to purity.
The actual amount to drink on a daily basis is up for debate. 64 oz per day? Half or your weight in ounces? Drink when your thirsty? If your thirsty you are already dehydrated? With so many thoughts it can be confusing. Drinking too much water can actually dehydrate you. This is true. But still too many are not drinking enough, or they reach for sodas and caffeinated beverages that dehydrate them as well. So, aim to drink an 8oz glass every couple of hours when your going through your day or drink when thirsty, Test it for yourself and see. The take away here is… When you drink water, you feel better and the body functions better. Hot water with lemon, honey, and cinnamon Helps prevent mucus buildup and keeps you hydrated. Love it. But I leave out the honey. Ginger this incredible root reduces inflammation, helps with stomach ailments. I love it. It can help clear the sinuses and reduce mucus build up. Some people make a ginger tea and add raw honey. I don’t usually use honey, it makes my throat a little funny, so I listen to my body and avoid it. Garlic and onions Both of these vegetable help boost immune function and have antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties from a compound they contain called allicin and sulfur bearing compounds which are also effective against strep and staph. They also may keep vampires away.
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