Yes, it’s the season for cold and flus.  It seems that the more our weather fluctuates the more germs are going around.  Recently we have been getting a lot of patients coming in with that two week bug that is going around. Have you gotten it?

The following are 3 simple actions that you can take to keep healthy this holiday season:

1. Keep hydrated! I know, I know – you’ve heard this before… Believe me, it makes a huge difference. Think about it- our bodies are 70% made out of water.  Water helps to flush out any toxin, virus or bacteria from your body.  It thins any mucous or phlegm that may start accumulating.  It moistens your airways and mucous membranes to keep bugs out of your system.  Aim for 8 glasses per day.
2. Don’t forget your protein! I know the holiday season can be busier than usual.  This can lead to eating on the go or skipping meals altogether.  No matter how busy you are – do NOT skip your proteins.  Aim to have at least 4 servings per day.  This can include: 2 eggs, 3-4 oz of chicken breast or fish, protein shake, 6 oz of plain greek yogurt, etc.
3. Keep your immune system healthy by saying “no” to treats and “yes” to healthy snacks. Did you know that 1 tsp of sugar (4 g) is enough to lower your immune system for up to 12 hours! Now can you imagine what that cheesecake (8 g of sugar) or can of pop (35 g of sugar) is doing to you?  Once you stay away from sugar for about 3-4 days, you will start appreciating the flavour and taste of more natural snacks.  Consider eating the following:

• Dehydrated fruit. If you go to your local health food store, you will be able to find many options with no sugar! They are delicious!
• Fresh fruit either on their own or with some nut butter. For example, banana slices – sliced banana with almond butter is a yummy treat.
• Hot air-popped popcorn – use spices to make it more tasty
• Spread nut butter (almond/cashew/peanut) on a celery stick and then cover with organic raisins (like ‘ants on a log’)
• Blueberries (fresh or frozen). Warning – frozen berries are very messy!
• Good old vegetables with hummus or babaganouj or artichoke dips
• Smoothies – Mix fruit of your choice (bananas, berries, etc) with almond/rice milk and blend. You can then add in extras like flax oil and flax seeds or hemp hearts for extra protein.

If after making these changes, you still feel you need to boost your immune system, then call us for a “Booster treatment”.   Studies on this treatment show that it decreases the frequency of colds and flus and if you do end up getting sick, then it will decrease the number of days you get sick for and the intensity of your symptoms.

Call us for more information, we are happy to help! 905-239-3900