5 Things To Keep You Healthy This Winter

By Wendy J. Hilliard, DC, Regional Wellness Manager

Knowles Apothecary Wellness

. http://www.knowleswellness.com/

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5 Things To Keep You Healthy This Winter

Here it comes cold season. Do what you can this year to keep you and your family healthy. These simple preventative measures easily fit in your cabinet and can make all the difference.

1. Vitamin C Vitamin C plays a role in the repair of all the major tissues of the body. Along with lysine, vitamin C is the main component of collagen, a protein in skin. Depletion of vitamin C and/or lysine can lead to cold sores or canker sores. Keep vitamin C levels high to avoid a breakout.

2. Elderberry Elderberry has been known for its ability to prevent colds and flu. Elderberries contain naturally antiviral bioflavonoid, which prevents viruses from invading cell walls. Vitamin A, vitamin B, and large amounts of vitamin C make elderberries naturally antibacterial and immune supportive. Elderberry can be taken daily throughout the winter as a preventative while dosages can be increased in the presence of an active cold or flu.

3. B Complex Individual B vitamins are the coenzymes for all of your body's daily processes. B-Complex is a combination of all the essential B vitamins formulated together to support red blood cell production, amino acid metabolism, energy production, and immune system function. It is an essential for immune system support.

4. Probiotics The human intestines have live digestive microorganisms known as probiotics or friendly flora that assists is the digestion of food and intestinal immunity. While antibiotics are great at killing off illness causing bacteria, they can also kill off our own intestinal flora leaving the gut out of balance and low on its immune defenses. Take a supplemental probiotic to help support and replace your own flora in the presence of illness and disease, especially while on antibiotics. Taking a probiotic daily can provide strong intestinal immunity and optimal health throughout the season.

5. Echinacea Echinacea works as a natural antibiotic shielding the body from infections by activating T-cell activity. It is most useful against colds, respiratory infections, sinus infections, and sore throats. It can be taken daily for up to 4-6 weeks at a time as a preventative or in the presence of cold and flu.

Keep your immune system at the top of its game this season. Bring on the hot chocolate, nights around the fire, sledding with the kids, and whatever else winter brings you. Keep these immune supports handy and avoid getting stuck with a cold. Happy Winter everyone!