Tis the Season

It's time to break our your arsenal of cold medications, cough drops and nyquil.  Or is it?

Perhaps, if you've had good health practices all during the warmer months and have built up your immune system, you have nothing to worry about so you can put those cold medicines away.

If you haven't, you still have time.  There are a lot of things you can do to prevent getting sick.

First, keep a normal schedule.  We have all noticed, when things are very busy that we get run down and likely end up with a scratchy throat or worse.  If you try to keep with a normal schedule, you'll be less likely to be worn down.  Yes, those Black Friday deals are amazing, but is it worth it to run out at midnight in the cold to get the last furby? (or insert name of hyped up toy this year here)

The holidays bring on some craziness, including parties, alcohol, family tensions, decorating and entertaining.  Plus for many of us, it's the end of the year crunch at work.  Because of this and the cold weather coming in, we find ourselves doing a lot more comfort eating.  Since we don't hibernate, this isn't necessary.

So before you reach for all the instant foods at work, drink a whole bottle of wine, or skip your breakfast running out the door for the train, there are a few things you can prepare ahead of time without resulting in illness or a hang over.

If you're working, fill your desk with some healthy snacks.  Almonds, dark chocolate nibs, water, dried fruit or beef jerky.  This will keep your hunger at bay in a healthy way and you will be plenty hydrated.

Pre-pare some breakfast ahead of time, weather that means having a banana, yogurt or making some protein bars (see a recipe here) or egg cups for the week!  You can always enjoy some bulletproof coffee if you're really in a rush!

At the holiday parties, have a healthy snack before you go, that way you won't over indulge on crab dip.  Drink plenty of water to hydrate so you can enjoy a glass of wine or two.  If you're worried about over indulging, have a wine spritzer (bubbly water added to wine) or alternate between a drink and water.

So now that we have the food, drink and scheduling done, what else?  Perhaps some elderberry syrup (from Wellness Mama) to keep your immune system strong or a immunity boost drink from a company like Arbonne.  Something many of us neglect is out gut.  Yes, that's right, our gut.  Our gut protects our immune system quite a lot.

Try out some Kefir, Kombucha, sauerkraut, or other fermented type foods.  These all have good bacteria that will make your immune system strong.  The big work is pro-biotics lately, that's what helps your gut and your immune system. If you can't stomach those fermented foods much, try a probiotic supplement.

Finally, exercise.  It's been proven that doing regular exercise, even if it's just walking, will keep your immune system strong.  So go out for walk even in the cold.  Get some fresh air, fill those lungs and challenge your body so it doesn't get bored or weakened.

Don't be a victim of the cold or flu, you can be perfectly healthy all winter long!

*Kate