Natural News | December 7 2013
Along with all the holiday festivities and togetherness come equal exposure to stress and sickness. Demands on our time, our pocketbook and yes, even our waistline. In the name of celebration, many people succumb this time of year to eating fewer nutritious foods and more junk foods. And when the body must dedicate its precious resources to breaking down those ingested toxins, is it really any wonder that it becomes more vulnerable to attack?
Though Natural News readers are likely already better armed than most with the nutritional education necessary to protect against cold and flu so prevalent this time of year – and without the need for dangerous flu shots – should you find yourself wanting a little extra immune support, look no further than those provided by nature in its infinite wisdom.
Garlic
Say what you will about “garlic breath,” but the property responsible for that infamously strong odor (allicin) is the very same one that makes garlic so effective at fighting off harmful bacteria (like strep and staph) and fungi; plus, fresh garlic has demonstrated anti-viral properties as well. Garlic is rich in antioxidants and selenium and helpful in clearing mucous from the lungs, making it particularly useful in treating upper respiratory infections. If you enjoy garlic and onion together, don’t be shy about a pairing, as both contain sulfur-bearing compounds which make them excellent at strengthening the immune system and supporting white cell function.
Carrots
Carrots are natural infection-fighters. Packed with beta carotene and other carotenoids, this root vegetable supports the immune system by helping to increase the body’s production of natural killer (NK) cells and T-cells, which the body requires to defend against infectious disease and foreign invaders. Drinking your carrots, in the form of fresh juice, may actually increase your uptake of beta carotene. If you’re suffering from a cough, carrot juice can help to prevent the vitamin A deficiency that might be compromising your airways.