How would some simple tips on how to boost your immune system sound?

Seeing as we are still in the colder months, cosy evenings and darker nights, it can be a tough time for our immune systems.

We all know that there are a lot of viruses going around at the moment and if you’ve experienced a throat like sandpaper, aches from head to toe, and a temperature through the roof, you’ll know just what I’m talking about. 🤒

Whilst it’s impossible to completely rule out being struck down by seasonal illness, there are a number of small lifestyle changes that you can make to keep your immune system working effectively.

So I’m going to share 5 today and 5 next week with you.

Many of these changes are easy to incorporate into a busy schedule, so fear not!

✔ Eat more fruit and vegetables 🥕

Eating your five-a-day seems to be the answer to everything these days. Include blueberries, broccoli, sweet potato and spinach, oranges, kiwis and red peppers.
As a rule of thumb, a colourful diet is a good diet, and many immune system boosters come in vibrant rainbow colours.

✔ Sleep. 😴

When you’re not getting enough sleep, your body doesn’t produce as many infection-fighting antibodies, and this can leave you susceptible to illness. Also, if you’re sleep-deprived, you’ll recover from infection more slowly. So make sure you’re getting your beauty sleep and let your immune system take care of the rest.

✔ Eat more fermented foods 💟

Fermentation is an ancient process involving the breakdown of carbs by bacteria and yeast. Fermented foods such as:

👉Kimchi
👉Sauerkraut
👉Yoghurt that contains probiotics
👉Kefir
👉Kombucha

…will provide your gut with healthy bacteria and give your immune system an effective boost. Also, many fermented foods are rich in vitamin C, iron and zinc, which all contribute to a stronger immune system.

✔ Stay hydrated 🚰

There are a number of reasons why staying hydrated is key to maintaining a healthy immune system. Here are a few.

👉 Our immune system depends on our bloodstream, and its ability to transport nutrients around the body.
👉Our bloodstream is primarily made up of water, so if we’re not drinking enough fluids, then it becomes much harder for our bodies to carry nutrients to each organ.
👉 Staying hydrated also helps to flush toxins and bacteria out of our bodies.

✔ Sip some broth

We make broth by slowly simmering bones or vegetables in order to extract the nutrients and minerals. It’s an ancient cooking technique which is not only super healthy but very efficient too.

Broths contain an assortment of different amino acids, which have strong anti-inflammatory effects and are a great source of protein, so if you’re already feeling run down, broth can be the perfect source of energy and nourishment to get you back to your best.