It’s that time of year again when people are getting sick left and right. I’m sure you can agree that being sick is no bueno. You feel crappy, no energy, puffy, and just not your usual pretty little self. I hate being sick, and let’s knock on some virtual wood, I haven’t had a bad cold or flu in at least 2 years. That’s not to say I haven’t felt something coming on, with the aches, a little sore throat, but immediately, when I do, I up my game big time!

It’s ideal to continue the majority of these listed practices all year long. We don’t want you not feeling well in general, but especially while preparing for your wedding or, heaven forbid, you start feeling a little run down right before your big day. Not to worry though, I’ve got you covered!

Keep these tips in your back packet for some powerful anti-sick weapons:

1. Increase your veggies and fruits – These goodies are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. Be mindful of adding these in at every meal and snack. Also, make sure to get plenty of DLGs {dark leafy greens; a little nutritionist lingo for ya!}. Just try to sneak in a little more each meal. Smoothies are the easiest way to be sneaky. Another example, when we make homemade pizza or my favorite goat cheese quesadilla, I’ll throw in some spinach or kale.

2. Incorporate a high-quality multivitamin – Most people are deficient in the vitamins, minerals and antioxidants needed for optimal health. With our soils being depleted and industrial farming plus being exposed to so many toxins, we are consuming far less nutrients than what is needed. I definitely noticed a huge difference when I began to consistently take vitamins. I felt more energetic and better overall. If you want some of my top vitamin recommendations, shoot me an email at info@KaraStout.com.

3. Include vitamin D – Here’s an awesome infographic for you! I personally take 2,000 – 4,000 IU per day. You especially want to include this vitamin in the colder months with little sun exposure. Vitamin D infographic

4. Probiotics – These are great not only for your digestion but amazing for your immune system. Did you know 80% of your immune system is located in your digestive system?! So a healthy gut is a must for optimal health. If you ever need to take antibiotics, make sure to add in a probiotic as well to maintain that healthy bacteria balance in your gut. Double check with your doctor first, but most doctors will agree with this!

5. Enjoy some warm, soothing tea – Green Tea not only boosts metabolism, it also contains antioxidants. White tea has antibacterial and antiviral properties. You can enjoy tea plain or add some raw honey which is also known for strengthening the immune system and is antiviral and antibacterial. My newest tea addiction for immune support is Echinacea Plus with elderberry. Yogi also has a huge variety of teas that taste amazing. There’s one to soothe a sore throat called Throat Comfort that tastes delicious!

6. Decrease stress – This is a MUST. Period. We can be eating the healthiest of foods and exercising, but stress can wreak complete havoc on EVERYthing. Trust me, I know this. We must learn to manage our stress and keep this a priority. Deep breathing can honestly help, mind/body workout classes {yoga or pilates & working out in general} are great de-stressors, talk to a loved one, read a good book, go for a 10 min walk, and honestly, prayer is my biggest stress reliever.

7. Rest & Sleep – Sooo important. Aim for at least 8-9 hours of sleep. Sleep is amazing for many things, but especially for our immune system and our body’s ability to stay on top of its game. It gives us that crucial time to heal and rejuvenate.

8. Eat plenty of foods with vitamin C – Some foods high in vitamin C are strawberries, kiwi, papaya, broccoli, kale, oranges, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers. Pick your favs and add those in, my friend!

9. Elderberry extract – My favorite! As I mentioned briefly last week, it’s probably my top recommendation! I swear by it. Go out and buy it now…you’ll thank me. Promise 😉 You’ll want to take it at the first sign you’re feeling sick or run down. I don’t take it daily, just when I begin to feel a little under the weather and up until I feel completely back to normal.

10. Coconut oil – Anything you can think of, coconut oil can help. No joke. You can add more coconut oil into your life by cooking and baking with it or adding to smoothies.

11. Decrease added sugar – Did you realize sugar feeds illnesses and disease? It’s true, unfortunately. {FYI…not talking about natural sugars found in whole foods like fruit or veggies} Ideally, it’s best not to consume over 24g of added sugar per day. Want a quick perspective on this?! I know a lot of you will not want to hear this…but your Starbucks drink most likely has more sugar in it than you think. For example, a tall 12oz Gingerbread Latte with nonfat milk and no whipped cream has 28g of sugar, a 16oz has 36g! That’s over our daily limit in just one drink! So, we just need to be mindful. Also, if you’re getting frequent colds or infections, take a look at your sugar consumption. Sugar can weaken your immune system, making it much more difficult to fight off illness. When you do need a little extra sweetness, go for natural sweeteners like raw honey, 100% pure maple syrup, or unrefined, liquid stevia.

12. As I’m sure you probably already know {but it’s too important not to include}, drink plenty of water – You want to drink at least 64oz per day or half your weight in ounces/day. It helps you stay hydrated plus flushes out waste and toxins. If you want to make your water much more exciting, go HERE!

If you know of anyone who could benefit from these tips, definitely share!

I’d love to hear from you! In the comment section below, tell me:

What is your #1 go-to anti-sick secret weapon?

Hope these tips help you stay healthy & happy this season!

Warmly,

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