Thankfully, there are some powerful and amazing ways to protect our bodies against the flu, colds, and other viruses.
Beyond getting plenty of sleep, drinking lots of water, and exercising regularly, there are some wonderful nutrients we can use to bolster our immune systems.
The following are five that have been scientifically proven to protect the body:
#1 - Onions, Baby!
Onions have all sorts of sulfuric properties that have the power to kick the flu or most viruses in the gut.
Yoga master B.K.S Iyengar (now 94-years-old) has long suggested that every human being should eat one whole onion a day to live a long and healthy life. The British Journal of Nutrition proved this to be true in a recent study revealing that onions fight free-radicals.
#2- Garlic
The University of Florida, led by Susan S. Percival, discovered that garlic supplements increase NK cells and gamma delta T-cells when consumed regularly. Additionally, those who take garlic supplements or eat naturally occurring garlic while sick can dramatically cut down the severity and length of flu symptoms.
#3 - Astragalus
Famed nutritionist Dr. Andrew Weil swears by astragalus, a naturally occurring herb that has been used for centuries in China. Its properties strengthen the immune system and is even good for the heart. Weil suggests purchasing a high-quality version of astragalus and following recommended usage.
#4 - Green Tea
According to a report in Men’s Health and Fitness, when consumed daily, green tea cuts your chances of getting the flu down by a whopping 70 percent! The magazine cited a study by Japanese researchers who found that Catechins bind to the flu virus empowers healthy cells. Loose-leaf tea is recommended over bagged tea – simply because it is higher in concentration.
#5 - Vitamin Supplements
Dr. Weil recommends that you take a high-quality multi-vitamin every day. Additionally, individual zinc, vitamin C, vitamin D, and B-complex supplements promote balanced health.
Beyond filling the body with power-packed elements, the World Health Organization also promotes regular exercise, a strict sleeping schedule (8 hours if possible), stress management and regular hand-washing.
