I know for some it’s hard to hear but we are, indeed, heading into autumn (welp!). This transition can be accompanied by the anticipation of “flu” season so regardless of how you’re feeling about the seasons changing, let’s cozy up and focus on our immune health.
Our immune system is responsible for the defense and protection of our bodies from anything unwanted. The stronger our immune system is, the better chance we have of avoiding flus/infections and the more easily we can fight off infections if we get sick.
So, how do we strengthen our immune system?
Focusing on our digestive system is a great place to start! But how are these two systems related? Our digestive system has many functions that include the more obvious tasks of digestion, absorption, and excretion of all our food. More than that though, it includes our gut which functions as the hub for our overall health affecting our immune system, nervous system, and mental health.
Without nutritious foods and proper digestion, our bodies are not able to absorb adequate nutrients required to build & repair tissues or synthesize & produce the foundational components required for a strong immune system. The ripple effect of improving your gut will enhance all other systems in your body - what a powerhouse place in our body!
Give your guts some love by including these immune boosters in your diet:
GARLIC
Garlic is known for its anti-viral/anti-fungal properties and is a great addition to all your savory dishes. Not to mention the warding off of vampires, of course! It also includes a bioactive compound known as “allicin” which is present in fresh garlic right after it is crushed. This compound can help fight against bacteria and infections. Good thing it’s tasty.
This week (Sept 19th), BCause Box subscribers will receive a clove of Dinah's homegrown garlic!
GINGER
Ginger is a delicious, warming root that is great to incorporate as we transition into a cooler season. Ginger is full of antioxidants and nutrients that aid in reducing inflammation, nausea, and indigestion, and helps us fight flus and infections making it a great natural immune booster.
HONEY
How lovely that not only is honey so yum but it is also good for you! Depending on the quality of the honey, you may also receive medicinal benefits of antioxidants, native plant constituents (if made locally), and polyphenols (plant compounds found in various foods) which can all help with reducing inflammation, reducing allergies, and helping us fight off infections. Choose local and unpasteurized/raw honey whenever possible for these extra benefits.
PROBIOTICS
Probiotics (opposite of antibiotics) are composed of varying strains of good bacteria that help keep our gut in balance. These are essential to our everyday functioning and health. Probiotics can be consumed through various methods including capsule & powdered supplements as well as directly in the food we eat. Foods like kefir, kombucha, and fermented veggies (i.e. miso, kimchi & sauerkraut) are great additions to give your gut and immune system a boost!
Stay cozy and healthy out there friends and give incorporate these natural immune boosters into your meals.
*This content is for informational or educational purposes only, and does not substitute professional medical advice or consultations with healthcare professionals. The information provided and foods suggested may not be suitable or appropriate to every individual and their personal health condition. Please consult a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns. If pregnant, consult your doctor or registered dietitian to understand which foods are safe for consumption.
DINAH JOHNSTON
Operations Manager / Farmer / Registered Holistic Nutritionist