Back To School Immunity
It’s that time of the year, the kids are headed back to school and the germ exposure and stress levels just skyrocketed right? If you’re like most parents you know it’s only a matter of time before the colds and stomach bugs roll in. With 3 little ones in daycare, a husband who works in a middle school and is exposed to hundreds of kids a day and myself working in a medical clinic we are extra diligent about keeping our immune systems in tip-top shape.
Here is what I do for myself and my family as a registered dietitian for optimal immune support.
Food:
First, and foremost of course we make sure we continue to eat a balanced food intake that includes lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. We also drink lots of water and make sure we are properly hydrated. And most importantly avoid processed sugar. There are studies that show that when you have a spike in sugar intake (think donut for breakfast) it actually suppresses your immune system so when you eat sugar your immune system is literally turned off. Think about that next time you add the caramel syrup to your coffee, reach for the cupcake in the breakroom, or give your kids a Gatorade after soccer practice.
Sleep:
I know this one is hard for everyone but prioritizing sleep is a must for a healthy immune system. Adults should aim for at least 8 hours and kids anywhere from 10-12 hours per night. Keep in my that mid-afternoon coffee and the blue light from a tv screen or cell phone can wreak havoc on your overall sleep so if you are having trouble sleeping try kicking the caffeine and reading a book at night to wind down instead. If you struggle with insomnia I highly recommend getting a salt lamp for your room. Be sure to get one that has a dimmer, leave it on full power during the day so it can do its magic and turn it down at night so the light doesn’t bother you.
Supplements:
I know a lot of people are weary of supplements and for good reason. Supplements are an industry just like everything else out there and not all supplements are created equal. It’s important if you are taking any kind of vitamins or supplements that you are choosing supplements that are 3rd party tested so what they say is on the label is what is actually in the product. Unfortunately, most of what you get over the counter at drugstores isn’t great so it’s best to seek out a professional that offers high-quality supplements. As a dietitian my supplement regimen is pretty hefty but there are a few key supplements that are vital for immune support. I personally currently take a probiotic (because good health starts in our gut), Vitamin D, zinc, and elderberry, Relax & Renew, Adaptogenic Immunity, Ashwaganda, and mushroom powder. My kids get a probiotic, Vitamin D, an herbal tincture (that acts as a multivitamin), and elderberry. This combination seems to do the trick. If we are exposed to someone who is sick or feel like we are coming down with something we also add in some echinacea and some colloidal silver.
Earthley:
Elderberry - Used daily for immune support and has no sugar/sweetener. I highly recommended getting the kid version as the adult version is alcohol based so harder to take and the kid one works for the whole family
Nourish Me Naturally -used daily in place of a multivitamin.
Feel Better Fast - this is great as a natural fever reducer
Cough Be Gone- this is great for any cough
Good Night Lotion- this helps the kiddos and adults with better sleep
Relax & Renew - for anxiety and overall calmness
Adaptogenic Immunity- for additional immune support ( I take this daily and give it to my kids in times of high stress)
Throat Spray- this is great for when you start to get that little tickle or have a full-blown sore throat
(Some other products we keep on hand from Earthley: Black Drawing Salve, Teeth Tamer, Pest-Aside, Cleaning Paste, Hair Conditioner)
FullScript
For all the other supplements my family takes feel free to visit my Fullscript Pharmacy.
These supplements are offered at 15% off retail cost to you.
https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/peasandpixels
Amazon
Four Sigmatic Mushroom Blend - I sprinkle this into my coffee daily
I hope this helps you and your family with building a stronger immune system this season.
*Please be sure to consult with your doctor before starting any supplements if you are on any medications or have any serious health conditions
*This post contains affiliate links.