5 tips to stay healthy this winter
As a Holistic Nutritionist, busy mom and Real Food advocate, I am always trying to stay on top of health and my immunity. (Because there are never any sick days when you are a mom and business owner!)
Since the global pandemic, I think we are all a bit more acutely aware of immunity and sickness. Here are a few easy tips anyone can incorporate to feel your best and stave off illness:
- Ensure you have adequate Vitamin D intake. Exposure to the sun is great but, a supplement especially in cold climates and for those with darker skin tones, it is a must. Make sure you look for Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) as it is superior to D2 form. I myself love the liquid form but, you do you and get it however you can.
- Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. This can be tough at times but, proper rest really does support a healthy immune system
- Manage stress: This can be done through meditation, exercise, getting out in nature
- Eat real food and lots of fresh produce: Making sure you eat plenty of fresh, whole foods and a variety will ensure you are getting the right macro and micronutrients to support a healthy immune system. Since our immune system is basically our “gut microbiome” you are eating for your digestive system! Eating fermented foods, lots of water and fibre, will act to keep your microflora happy to fight off the bad bacteria.
- Avoid sugar: sugar intake and processed foods/starches with a high glycemic index have been shown in studies to suppress immune function for hours after consumption.
Do these, or at least as many as you can and you will be on your way to stronger immunity and maintaining health this winter (and all year long).
