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Concerned Influenza (the flu) is lurking around the corner? Build your immune system now!

Do you know that co-worker who won't stay home when they are sick? ?

Most flu activity runs from October to May, peaking from December to February, so now is the time to boost your immune system.

The flu can cause you to be miserable and even be life threatening for some.  But there are ways you can help build your immunity and reduce your chances of catching it. Your immune system is there for a reason and can do a remarkable job  protecting you from the flu.

I am seriously knocking on some wood here (for luck) when I say these tips and remedies have helped me not get the flu for the past 5 years.  Hopefully putting that in writing didn't just jinx me!

I have chosen not to take the flu shot the past 5 years since I started on this health journey.  After researching some of the ingredients like mercury, formaldehyde, detergent, the flu virus and more, I had rather not have that in my body.  That decision is up to you and your medical professional, but I have decided for now to pass.

When I stopped getting the shot I started researching natural ways to protect my body from the flu.  I have listed what I found here and I hope it helps you this year.

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Learn more here.

Natural remedies to help boost your immune system and help prevent the flu:

1. You cannot wash your hands enough! Using soap and warm water, wash your hands for a minimum of 20 seconds, rubbing your hands together vigorously.  I usually sing the ABC song to make sure I wash long enough.  (usually not out loud in public ☺️)
2. Use a paper towel to open doors.  When leaving the bathroom I use a paper towel to open the door to avoid touching germs.  I like when businesses have a trash can right by the door so I can throw it in there. Or even better, I love the ones that have a PUSH door to get out. If I have other doors to pass through after the bathroom, I keep the towel and take it with me. No paper towels? I grab some toilet paper and use it. Door knobs are very germy!
3. Start doubling up on Vitamin D now.  I used to think it was Vitamin C I should be doubling up on, but my health coach told me Vitamin D is the best for immunity support. Right now I am taking 10,000 IU daily, 2 of these Doctor's Best Vitamin D3 5000IU.  Take your Vitamin D with the meal containing the most fat to help with absorption. Currently, an estimated 3 million US adults are low in Vitamin D. The symptoms and problems associated with this deficiency could be a whole other blog.
4. Eat healthy. This is pretty much true for all areas of your life. Without a properly fueled body, it is susceptible to germs and sickness. I eat organic foods whenever available. The pesticides and fertilizers applied to conventional foods can weaken your immune system. According to this article by Dr Wolfson, studies show that just one week of eating organic foods reduces pesticide exposure by 90%!
5. Eat Keto. Yes, you probably already know I am a big fan of the Keto lifestyle and for good reason! In case you didn't know that, check out my blog post here. Eating Keto is more in line with how our ancestors ate and will help boost your immune system by eliminating processed foods full of chemicals.
6. Get plenty of sleep. This is one I struggle with because I am such a night owl.  I get some of my best ideas and energy at night. Have you seen one of those memes that shows a sleepy person all day, waiting to go to bed and then at midnight they are the energizer bunny? Is that you too? You need sleep so you body can heal and refresh. Dr Best's Magnesium and lavender oil are my go to's, but you can read about other hints to help you sleep here.
7. Drink Water. Funny how some of these tips are the same regardless of what area of your body you are trying to improve. Drinking clean, filtered water is essential to optimize your body.  Drink at least half your body weight in ounces each day, but during flu season, increase it. Putting lemon juice and a tablespoon of Braggs Organic Apple Cider Vinegar in your water before meals will give it an extra boost.
8. Drink ginger lemon tea.  This one is in my free recipe book.  Go here to receive the book to your inbox along with future information and recipes.  The combination of the ginger, lemon and a few other key ingredients, gives your body that extra jolt it needs to fight off germs.  I swear by it. Any time my throat gets a little scratchy I start the tea and it goes away. (knocking on that wood again!)
9. Exercise. Moving the body and getting the blood pumping is good for many things, especially the immune system. You don't have to go crazy here, go for three 15 minute walks a day if you think you don't have time to exercse, but a good intense 30 – 45 minute workout is best.
10. Teach your family and friends to cough or sneeze into their elbow. Sneezing and coughing into your hands leave germs there that spread to door handles and through shaking hands, etc.
11. Sit in an infrared sauna. I am fortunate to have a sauna at home, but if you can find one at a nearby spa or wellness center go sit in one for a session. The healthy benefits are numerous, but there is nothing like a good ole sweat session to rid the body of toxins and help your immune system.
12. Diffuse essential oil.  These really help keep moisture in the air and clear out the sinuses.  I am a HUGE believer in essential oils and Young Living is my very favorite brand.  I totally trust their Seed to Seal Guarantee and I know they really care about quality.

Not all oils are created equal and I want oils that haven't had pesticides and fertilizer used on the plants.

I became a member of Young Living so I can buy at wholesale.  Here is a link if you would like to buy retail or become a wholesale member and earn free stuff.  Young Living  

• • Thieves – LOVE LOVE LOVE this stuff.  It is a blend of clove, Lemon, Cinnamon, Bark, Eucalyptus Radiata and Rosemary. It has very high antiseptic properties so I use the vitality version and put a few drops in my lemon ginger tea.
  • Eucalyptus – This is one of my all time favorite single oils! It stimulates the immune system and combats inflammation in the lungs. It's also great for sinus infections.
  • Frankincense – Great for the lungs, your cough and helps reduce inflammation.
  • Peppermint – Great for helping clear your breathing and promote respiratory health.

I pray you do not catch the flu this year, but just in case, here is a blog with natural remedies for knocking the flu out faster.

Do you have ideas I have forgotten here?  What is something you are going to start doing now to help prevent the flu this year?

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Free Recipes

I created a recipe book with over 20 of my Keto and gluten free favorites, many using healthy sugar alternatives. Go here to receive the book in your inbox along with future information and recipes.

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To your health,

Jamie

Remember, I am a health coach, not a licensed medical professional and the advice on this page is from my personal experience, health coach certification training or from the experience of friends or clients. You should talk with your medical professional when seeking advice about a medical condition.