Hello and Happy New Year!

It feels great to be back on the keys to share some Ayurveda wellness with you!

It is that time of the year and I’m hearing a lot of throat clearing, coughing and sniffles. Also, I hear that this flu season has been a bit of a doozy. So how do we prepare? Well, as the saying goes -  ‘the best defense is a good offense!’

Wearing a mask and washing your hands thoroughly will help protect you this season, but you might also want to boost your body’s defense system for a swift and strong response. Proper nourishment helps ward off illnesses but also speeds up our recovery should we fall sick. Sadly, too many of us do not eat enough whole foods to keep us healthy year-round. So here are few of the immune system superstars you should consider consuming to stay healthy this season.

Vitamin C
Vital for supporting our natural defense system. In fact, the effects of vitamin c have long been noted for shortening the stay of colds.

Unfortunately, since vitamin c is water-soluble it dissolves in water and is eliminated through our system. Neither is it stored in the body nor is it produced naturally by the body. Which means that we must keep up our daily intake through food or supplements. Therefore, it is no surprise to hear - ‘load up on your vitamin C!’ by those wishing you a quick recovery. 

Food sources: citrus fruits, kiwi, strawberries, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, white potatoes, bell peppers and amalaki (Indian gooseberry).

Vitamin A
Known for developing, protecting and repairing lung tissue - making it a critical nutrient when it comes to supporting respiratory health. Vitamin A is especially beneficial for those who suffer from asthma or chronic bronchitis. 

Food sources: kale, spinach, broccoli, tomatoes, red bell pepper, mango, beef liver, fish oil, milk, eggs and orange/yellow vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin and squash.

Ginger
Well known in Ayurveda for supporting the immune system. Ginger, being an excellent expectorant, is helpful when it comes to treating cough and congestion. Drinking fresh ginger tea is an exceptional way to avail of this root's health properties.

Tulsi (Indian Holy Basil)
Highly revered in Ayurveda for supporting the upper respiratory tract and promoting the health of the immune system. Tulsi, which contains antioxidants and micronutrients, can be enjoyed as a hot tea during the cold months.

If you are interested in Ayurvedic remedies to keep you healthy this season then be sure to download my ‘Boost your Immunity’ ebook.

🎯  Quote of the week

New year resolutions and goals may not be for everyone but there is definitely one thing each of us can do more of, and that is to be kind to yourself. 
 

Tomorrow is shaped by the types of conversations you have with yourself today.
Are you motivating yourself? Do you offer yourself kind words when you are having a hard day? Are you listening to your body’s needs? The most powerful dialogue is the one that happens within yourself everyday.
— Emily Maroutian