How to give your immune system a little boost to stay healthy during the cold and flu season

With the holidays behind us and the New Year’s resolutions in full force to get (or stay) healthy, it’s important to remember that the season is not just winter, it’s also the cold and flu season. It’s the time of year where everyone is coughing and sneezing, and where “bless you” can be heard multiple times per day. Whether you’re one who believes in the flu shot or not, there are a few steps we can all take to increase the likelihood of staying healthy throughout the cold and flu season.

First of all, let’s remember to wash our hands multiple times per day (you may need to have some of your favorite lotion on hand to prevent dryness!). Encourage children to wash often as well, because teachers don’t like absentees any more than your boss does. Hand washing should be done before eating, after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing, or touching your nose, mouth or eyes. Also, try to avoid sharing cups, utensils, or any other items that can transmit germs.

To ensure that we are doing our part in protecting our immune systems the best we can, there are really only a few things to remember. Whether they are easier said than done, well that’s completely up to you.

  1. Make sure you are getting an adequate amount of sleep each night. Skimping on sleep will eventually wear on your immune system and increase the likelihood of getting sick. We protect our immune systems and our immune systems will protect us!
  2. Drink A LOT of water. Staying hydrated is important every day of the year and it’s a good idea to make sure you are drinking at least 64oz a day. That may sound like a lot for some people, but really it’s only eight 8oz glasses a day. You’ve got this!
  3. Stock up on flu fighting supplements. Zinc, Selenium and Vitamin D are all known for boosting the immune system. Of course it’s always a good idea to keep a supply of Wellness Formula and Vitamin C on hand.
  4. And finally, probably the most important of all, make sure you are eating a healthy diet that is rich in immune-boosting foods. Wild salmon, tuna, spinach, tomatoes and citrus, apples, nuts, and miso are all excellent go-to’s when you’re down and out. Ginger, turmeric, garlic, honey, and blueberries are also great to incorporate into your daily routine whenever you can. Tonics and elixirs made with apple cider vinegar are sure to cure, or at least get you back on the right track! And to get you started, here are some of our favorites from the North Coast recipe library.

Apple Cider Vinegar Immune Booster is nice and hot and will clear your senses like nobody’s business. Simple, yet satisfying.

Apple Cider Vinegar Iced Tea will cool things off if you have a fever.

Ginger Switchel’s are always refreshing, especially when made with sparkling water.

Honey Spritzer’s will sooth you from the inside out with the perfect combination of honey and cinnamon.

As always, feel free to come up with your own recipes using your favorite combination of ingredients. For inspiration, visit our North Coast recipe library here and stay up to date with all the latest and greatest!

About North Coast Organic:

Since 1922, North Coast Organic has been producing apple juice, sauce, and apple cider vinegar, as well as many specialty products. All 100% organic and 100% delicious!

North Coast Organic apple products are made in Sebastopol, CA from U.S. grown certified organic apples. They contain no added sugars, preservatives, colorings or flavorings.