Immunity
As we approach flu season one thing you won’t hear me suggest is getting a flu shot. We do things a little differently in our house so I thought I’d share what that looks like.
The flu, just like any other virus, attacks weak immune systems so keeping our immune systems strong and healthy is key all year long, especially at this time of the year.
If you are a parent you’ve most likely already been hit with the back-to-school germs and run the gamut of daycare bugs but we typically see another surge of bugs at the end of fall, heading into winter. This time is flu season but also when the weather shifts which tends to be hard on most people. Couple that with it being a more stressful time of the year and sprinkle in more “treats” and higher sugar intake as we enjoy each holiday and you’ve got a perfect recipe for depleted immune systems and viruses to take over.
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, Vitamin C, and elderberry. 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.
A handful of things my family takes like Elderberry I’ve offered as an affiliate for Earthley for quite some time but I’m excited to announce that now as a dietitian I also offer access to purchase professional-grade vitamins and supplements as well. So in a totally shameless plug here is where you can purchase the supplements that we love and use in our own home.
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.
This company also makes a handful of other herbal tinctures and products we use as needed as well:
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 with better sleep
Postpartum Balance- this has been a game changer for me postpartum
Black Drawing Salve- keep one at home and one in the diaper bag and use for any bug bites, bee stings, or scrapes
Teeth Tamer- if you have a teething little one you need this!! All natural version of baby oral gel
Anxiety Calm Oil - I personally use the one that does not have CBD and notice a huge difference in the way I feel
Throat Spray- this is great for when you start to get that little tickle or have a full-blown sore throat
Pest-aside- the only thing we use for bug spray
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
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.