As the air becomes more crisp and we notice the general public getting more stuffy and sneezy, we thought we’d help our community brace itself for the inevitable cold and flu season.
While traditional methods of wellness and prevention such as hand washing, sneezing into our elbows and getting proper rest will always remain crucial necessities, our true first line of defence is always our immune system, and we need to keep it robust.
Here is how our dietary choices, lined with Ayurvedic principles, can improve our immunity, keeping us from building those wintertime Kleenex piles.
The foundation of immunity, the concept of Ojas in Ayurveda is vitality. Think of it like a reservoir or bank vault filled with resilience and strength, ready to fight off germs and illness.
To build up your Ojas like a fortress, it’s best to focus your fall/winter diet on warm, nourishing and (most importantly) digestible foods. We emphasize digestible as just because you can swallow it, doesn’t mean it digests well or feels good to your gut.
In this case, we recommend fresh, cooked veggies including beets, lentils, squash and sweet potatoes. Add gut-friendly grains such as aged white rice or quinoa as their side.
Every good dish needs a bit of spice, even the healthy ones. Not only are herbs and spices a flavour boost, but they can pack a powerful punch in boosting your immune system as well.
A popular fall spice is turmeric, often used in curries and golden milk. What you may not know is that turmeric contains antiviral and antibacterial properties, making it a wonderful anti-inflammatory ingredient.
Another beneficial spice is ginger which also battles your inner inflammation. This warming spice also promotes circulation, improving your blood flow, lowering blood pressure, preventing clots and reducing your risk of heart disease.
Finally, we can’t forget garlic, delicious garlic. This ingredient is rich in allicin which is an antimicrobial compound. Garlic also contains antioxidants, adding to its immunity-boosting power.
Our immune system doesn’t function as well if we are not properly hydrated. Mix and sip warm water infused with ginger, honey or lemon throughout the day – it’s better for you than cold water.
We also recommend a mug of delicious bone broth; good anytime, but most beneficial first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.
Available in chicken and beef, Shorba Bone Broth is rich in immune-supporting nutrients including protein (which also builds/repairs tissues), collagen, amino acids (the building blocks of protein), and other essential minerals.
Add a pinch of turmeric or a few drops of lemon for an extra immunity boost.
Our broths can also be used as a foundational base for your favourite soups and stews! If water is a base in any meal-time recipe in your kitchen, it can probably be substituted for bone broth.
We also offer a subscription plan so it’ll always be ready in your pantry for days spent in sickness or health.
By embracing the above Ayurvedic recommendations, plus incorporating bone broth into your routine, you can naturally empower your body to resist colds and flu, while also feeling your physical best from day to day in all generalities.
Remember, a strong inner fire and a well-nourished body are your best weapons in fighting the good fight for your health and overall well-being!
