Natural ways to help stay well over winter

It’s that time of year when the coughs and colds can seem endless! The good news is that there are a number of simple ways you can help support your immune system, so you can stay active (and not sneezing!) We spoke to holistic nutritionist and wellness expert, Natalie Brady, for some of the best natural ways to help stay well over the colder months.

1. Take it easy

Rest and relaxation is one of the best ways to let your body recuperate from a nasty bug, but it is also just as important when you are feeling well. Avoid stressing your immune system by pushing yourself to ‘do it all’ and try your best to get 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night. One easy way to set yourself up for a great night’s rest is to tuck your phone or device out of sight at least an hour before bed.

2. Getting enough zinc

Zinc is a key nutrient when it comes to keeping your immune system happy. Along with helping fight infections, zinc is also important for healing wounds. For great and tasty sources of zinc you can include in your diet, try oysters and (unprocessed) red meat, as well as nuts and seeds – especially the humble pumpkin seed!

3. Add in some Vitamin C

Many of us had mothers who swore that Vitamin C helped keep colds away. Well, they were probably right! Vitamin C helps can help support your body’s cellular functions when it comes to both your innate and adaptive immune system. Try eating a range of foods rich in Vitamin C like capsicums, citrus fruit and berries. Plus, reach for leafy green veggies such as spinach, broccoli and brussels sprouts.

4. Spice it up!

Along with being delicious ingredients in warming curries, ginger and turmeric are thought to be powerful antiviral herbs. Ginger could be a great option to help ease a sore throat, clear some of that congestion (goodbye blocked nose!), as well as relieving indigestion and nausea. You could grate a little fresh ginger or turmeric root into teas, porridge, smoothies, stir-fries and homemade sauces. The powdered versions are available in your supermarket spice section.

5. Eat warming foods

There is a reason why we crave more warming comfort food this time of year. They keep us warm and are easier to digest. Listen to your body and nourish it with soups, casseroles, roasted veggies. Use the slow cooker to create delicious meals that you will love to come home to!

Along with these helpful words of advice, our Asteron Life team would add that if at any time you feel unwell and, in particular have cough and flu symptoms which could be related to COVID-19, please make sure to consult your health professional.

Natalie Brady is a Holistic Nutritionist, Wellness Expert, Healthy Recipe Creator who teaches her clients how to take control of their health so they can lose weight, restore their gut health, balance their blood sugar levels, reduce cravings, regain energy and reduce stress so they can get back to living their life feeling their best. Find her website at www.nataliebrady.co.nz.