The World According to Me

Everybody around me seems to be sick. Sneezing, coughing, runny noses etc. I find this is one of the hardest times of the year to avoid other people germs. So is there anything you can do to help fight the nasty viruses that other people bring with their Christmas gifts? The short answer is maybe. The most important thing to remember is to wash your hands. You can also try and boost your immune system. Some things to try:

Make sure you get enough protein. It helps us produce antibodies that help fight infection.

Take zinc, which plays an important role in maintaining a strong immune system and fighting off cold infections. Be careful not to exceed 100mg at day as higher doses can actually suppress the immune system.

Eat aromatics like onion and garlic, which contain allicin, a compound that has been shown to improve immunity and fight off viral, bacterial and fungal infections.

Take Echinacea, which is believed to stimulate the body’s immune system and ward off infections. Studies have been mixed and no results have been proven.

Take ginseng, which has been well studied and helps fight infection and supports the immune system.

Take Elderberries, which are rich in flavonoids, which may boost the immune systems response to viruses and have been found to contain immune-balancing and antioxidant properties. Just to be confusing the supplements are made with the flower of the plant and not the berries.

Take probiotics. Between 60 and 80 per cent of your immune system is located in the digestive tract. So if things are healthy there, your whole body will stay strong. Some studies have shown that probiotic supplements can improve nasal congestion, sinus infections and allergies.

Other things that may help:

Getting enough sleep
Drinking enough water
Eating a balanced diet

Good luck to you all as you fight the good fight against getting sick over the holidays!