If you live in the Western Hemisphere, chances are you’re feeling the cooler weather. Temperatures are dropping and with that colds, coughs and illness are on the rise. Luckily, we can teach you about Ayurvedic medicine for immune system health as well as Ayurveda flu prevention!
Here are 5 ways to naturally boost your immune system this winter:
Get proper sleep
Numerous studies have shown that people who don’t get enough sleep are more likely to get ill when exposed to a virus. During sleep, the immune system releases proteins called cytokines that the body utilizes to fight infection and inflammation. Chronic sleep deprivation may reduce the production of cytokines, thus weakening the body’s ability to recover when ill. 1
Keep your mineral levels balanced
Minerals are necessary for every physiological function in the body. They are responsible for the communication within the nervous system, digestive system and metabolism, and regulate how nutrients in the food we eat are utilized.2 Minerals also keep the fluid levels in the body balanced, serving as natural electrolytes. In this way, they keep the human body “charged” and running efficiently. Authentic Shilajit™ is a rich source of various trace minerals that can boost your immune system in winter months and keep you feeling energized and healthy.
Reduce stress
A breakthrough study in the 1980s by psychologist Janice Kiecolt-Glaser, PhD, and immunologist Ronald Glaser, PhD, found that medical students’ immunity decreased substantially every year as they were gearing up for a three-day exam. Numerous studies since then have revealed a clear connection between short term and chronic stress and decreased immunity. Depression and loneliness are also common stress factors linked to weakened immunity.3 Beginning a daily meditation and yoga practice, as well as spending more time in nature and around uplifting people can all help to reduce stress. Adaptogens like ashwagandha, ginseng, chyawanprash and shilajit can also support the body in dealing with the negative impacts of stress and returning to a more balanced state.
Eat seasonal, organic and fresh food
Foods that are grown in season provide our body with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and strong. Pesticides found in non-organic foods are toxins that stress the body and tax the immune system. In addition, it’s best to avoid too much old, packaged and processed foods that contain little to no prana, or life force energy, that can suppress digestion and immunity. Include detoxifying dark leafy greens, a variety of fiber-rich whole grains, vegetables and moderate amounts of seasonal fruit.
Cook with immune-boosting spices
Cooking foods in spices not only make them taste delicious, but helps them to break down quicker in the body to support the production of ojas. Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory, cumin helps to break down ama, coriander supports liver function and black pepper helps to clear the channels of the body to enhance delivery of nutrients. Lotus Blooming Herbs Authentic Chyawanprash™ has many health benefits and is an excellent source of antioxidant-rich herbs and spices that have been shown to boost the immune system in winter months.4
References:
1 “Can Lack of Sleep Make You Sick?” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 28 Nov. 2018, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/insomnia/expert-answers/lack-of-sleep/faq-20057757. 2 Alvarez, Sonni. “Mg Water.” Magnesium and Calcium Absorption, The Magnesium Online Library, 22 Nov. 2002, www.mgwater.com/import.shtml. 3 “Stress Weakens the Immune System.” American Psychological Association, American Psychological Association, 23 Feb. 2006, www.apa.org/research/action/immune.aspx. 4 “The Health Benefits of Chyawanprash.” Authenticshilajit.com, Lotus Blooming Herbs, 16 Nov. 2018, www.authenticshilajit.com/health-benefits-of-chyawanprash.html.