Curb those colds!!

Immune Boosting Tips

It seems like every other person in Edinburgh has a cold or a cough just now. Spring is nearly here, but has winter left you a little under par? Give your immune system a timely boost by following a few of these simple tips.

1. Up the vitamin C! Yes, we’ve heard this before, but did you know that dark green leafy vegetables (kale, broccoli, spinach etc) and red or yellow peppers are richer sources than oranges? Swap your normal potatoes for sweet ones as they have far more vit C and beta-carotene.

2. Ditch the sugar for a couple of weeks. Refined sugar has been proven to suppress the immune system for up to 6 hours after consumption. 3. Add some mushrooms to dishes. These are a good source of beta-glucans, another immune system ally!

4. Throw plenty of garlic, ginger and onions into stir-fries and curries. And don’t forget fresh herbs, wonderfully rich sources of nutrients.

5. Make a lovely warming Scotch broth. Underused pearl barley contains powerful immune boosting properties

6. Include zinc rich foods such as pumpkin seeds and fish. Grind up some seeds and add them to your porridge or muesli for a potent dose of nutrients in the mornings.

If you’re looking for a good immune support supplement, then firstly, make sure your vitamin C is with bioflavanoids for absorption and avoid any effervescent ones with Aspartame. Secondly, don’t forget vitamin D3, which is extremely useful for immune function and something the vast majority of Scots are deficient in, especially in March when we’ve had very little sunlight for half a year! Thirdly and arguably most importantly, look after your gut. Up to 80% of our immunity comes from the beneficial bacteria we house, so taking a good probiotic supplement (I’m afraid sugary little yoghurt drinks don’t come into this category) can really help you fight off any nasties and see you bouncing into Spring. Recipe to follow!!