Urijah Faber famously asserted that “good health is the ultimate wealth,” a sentiment that resonates significantly, especially during seasons of illness and flu. This is keenly felt in Colne, as in any corner of the world, where health is undoubtedly our most valuable asset. Whilst practising cautionary measures such as sanitising our hands, getting immunised, and maintaining a regular sleep pattern are important, it is equally crucial to fortify our immune system with the appropriate vitamins and minerals.
A Focus on Probiotics and Prebiotics
The microbiome, the human body’s vast ecosystem of microorganisms, plays a crucial role in our health. An imbalance in this system can lead to infection, deteriorating gut health, and ultimately, a compromised immune system. Probiotics, also known as the body’s microscopic guardians, help protect the microbiome. These beneficial bacteria bolster the health of other good bacteria and fend off harmful ones. Foods rich in probiotics include sauerkraut, yoghurt, and kimchi.
Prebiotics, on the other hand, are the nourishment that fuel these probiotic guardians. They help strengthen the beneficial bacteria. Foods such as bananas, greens, onions, and artichokes are good sources of prebiotics.
However, relying solely on food might not yield the required amount or variety of these crucial elements. Probiotic and prebiotic supplements offer a feasible solution to this, providing the right quantity and quality needed.
Green Tea Catechins for Immune Boosting
It seems there’s more to the phrase “tea time” than just a warm cup of comfort. Green tea can provide not only a natural energy kick but also bolster immune health. The catechins in green tea, with their high antioxidant content, help protect the body from oxidative stress caused by an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants. Regular consumption of green tea has been linked to lower incidences of flu, according to various empirical studies. The antioxidant epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is present in higher quantities in matcha leaves as compared to regular tea leaves, enhancing the overall health benefits of green tea.
The Essential Role of Zinc
Zinc comes second only after iron as the most abundant mineral in the human body, playing a key role as a building block. Apart from aiding in the creation and functioning of immune cells, Zinc can shorten the duration of the common cold, aid in protein synthesis, speed up the healing of wounds, support normal growth and development, and potentially slow down age-related macular degeneration. As the body lacks a designated storage system for zinc, regular consumption is essential.
The Power of Vitamin C
Upon hint of a common cold, the first go-to remedy is usually vitamin C. With its significant role in supporting immune defence by assisting cellular function, vitamin C is indispensable in immune health. It is important to note that different sources of this vitamin, such as Ascorbyl Palmitate, Ascorbic Acid, Calcium Ascorbate, and Magnesium Ascorbate are utilised at varying rates by the body. Therefore, utilising a variety of sources is necessary to maintain a constant supply of this essential vitamin.
The Health Benefits of Echinacea
Echinacea, a.k.a. the purple coneflower, and a member of the daisy family, has been traditionally used by the Plains Indians to treat numerous conditions, including sore throats, colds, coughs, and even snake bites. Its renowned ability to boost the immune response, along with clinical proof of reducing frequency and severity of illnesses, make it an excellent, natural immunity enhancer. Echinacea also possesses anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants that combat oxidative stress.
Don’t just use flowers to beautify your home, use them to fortify your immune system too. Echinacea and its inherent health benefits can be found in SIG and Red Clover products.
So, let’s take control of our own health, no matter where we live, whether it’s in Colne or elsewhere, and invest in the essential vitamins and minerals that will strengthen and heighten our immune systems!