Blog article

The cold season is upon us and what better time of the year to be thinking of ways to stop colds from getting a hold or nipping one in the bud. 

Six lifestyle habits as a preventative measure: 

1. Cut down on sugary/sweet foods( chocolate, cake and biscuits, sugary energy drinks)  as excess sugar suppresses the immune system. Use a  protein snack of nuts, fish or cheese to ward off the 2-3pm sugar slump!
2. Too much alcohol damages liver cells - 1 glass of alcohol as day and 1 alcohol free day is best.
3. Constant physical and emotional stress  with lack of sleep - produces a tense uptight nervous system and consequently a suppressed immune system. Meditation, tai chi, massage, yoga, herbs and seeing a councillor can all help here.
4. Prolonged use of  non- steroidal anti inflammatories - Long term use can cause damage to the mucous membranes of the GIT and as a result ulcers, nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, indigestion etc can occur. As 70% of our immune system is in the GIT we need to keep the walls of the GIT in a healthy condition. 
5. Frequent travel, jet lag, lack of sleep - we get very run down . How do you change your lifestyle here? 
6. Hygiene at home and/or when out - washing hands, covering mouth when you cough, alcohol wipes on door handles etc

Herbs to help nip a cold in the bud:

• Echinaceae - All year round as a preventative and higher doses if a cold begins. I also have a protocol if you are going overseas which you begin 2 weeks before departure.
• Andrographis for initial symptoms too.
• PCIP - a homeopathic tablet when you get a red edged tongue and sore throat.
• Zinc tablets and vit D if levels low. 
• A probiotic 

If you want more tailored advice please give me a call.

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