Illnesses tend to be rampant throughout the winter months. These months also tend to be a time when our immune systems are weakened, because we have consumed too much sugar. The following are a few ways that I will be strengthening my immune system, during this holiday season.
Lemon Water
During the night, our body is naturally cleansing. The first thing we eat/drink is vitally important, as we are "breaking the night fast". The first thing we drink bathes our cells. So, it is very important to drink a tall glass of water, preferably with some freshly squeezed lemon juice, first thing. It is a natural de-tox, which is very gentle.
Probiotic and Organic Yogurt
When I am concerned about potential illnesses, I try to make certain that I take a probiotic. Organic yogurt often contains live cultures, which are wonderful illness preventatives. Sugar can kill the live cultures, so make sure that it is plain yogurt. Plain yogurt can be sweetened with fresh or frozen fruit.
Supplements
I try to make sure that I take my multi-vitamin very diligently, during the winter months.
Extra Salads
I just recently started having a big, delicious salad, every day at lunch. I enjoy it, so much! My husband has even requested that I send him one, each day, in his cooler. I love to use artisan lettuces, peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, broccoli, and any other vegetables that I have. It is so much fun to devise new salad creations. For salad inspiration, check out Tammy's salad recipes. Eating raw before eating cooked meals helps to supply the necessary enzymes for digesting your cooked food.
Exercise
Sometimes I have high goals to exercise five days a week. Then, I tend to get frustrated and give up when that plan doesn't work out. Instead, I am making a goal of exercising three days a week. Hopefully, I can stay more committed to a plan that has more "wiggle room". Exercise enables your body to work at an optimal level.
Daily Green Smoothies
Green smoothies are high in omega 3's, which can boost your immune systems immensely. Green smoothies are high in fiber, which helps to flush the toxins out of your body.
Healthy Snacks
Immune-Boosting Guacamole is a terrific, healthy snack! I like to have plenty of fruits and vegetables ready in the refrigerator, so little hands can always find something nutritious to snack on.
Limit Sweets- Make Healthier Treats
It can be challenging to eat healthy with so many delectable sweets around. I am trying to limit the unhealthy sweets. For example, rather than drinking hot cocoa every night, I can limit my little ones to twice a week. That way, it is special and they can look forward to it, yet they aren't weakening their immune systems by drinking it daily. Other nights, we can enjoy a cup of herb tea, while snuggling up and reading a book together. Healthy treats can be substituted for unhealthy snacks. Blend up some frozen bananas in a blender for some yummy "banana ice cream". It is so sweet and has the consistency of soft serve ice cream.
Pack Homemade Snacks while Traveling
I am planning on borrowing a relative's Excalibur dehydrator, before traveling this year. That way, I can buy bananas at.19 a pound when they are over-ripe, and dehydrate a bunch of them! Dried fruit is always easy to pack. I loved Donielle's post (including recipes) about packing real food while traveling.
How do you stay healthy during winter? I would love to hear your tried and true tips! Many Blessings!
