Ok so we are slowly reaching the time of year where some of us will be sniffing, sneezing and coughing. It’s the time of year where illnesses are caught more frequently due to an increase in bacteria and viruses. Your immune system has to work hard all year round to defend itself from harmful bacteria, toxins and illnesses. However, your immune system is only as good as the type of foods you are putting into your body to arm it to full effect. Think about it, there are a vast amount of fruits, vegetables, juices, drinks etc that are packed full of antioxidants that will help with your body defend itself against the harmful germs that are going to make you ill. Forget fast foods, chocolate, sweets, biscuits and fizzy drinks. The 3 foods that I want you to include in your diet that will target harmful bacteria are as follows; Oregano oil, Manuka Honey and Garlic.
Lets start with Oregano Oil. This oil is great! It is packed full of antioxidants that will defend your body against the very illnesses that come out to attack you this time of the year. Oregano oil is derived from carvacrol and thymol. Both of these are powerful phenols that have the ability to kill the bacteria within our bodies. Science also shows that these two properties help against anti-viral, anti-fungus and anti-bacterial problems. You can use this in liquid or capsule form and both will do the job in boosting your immune system.
How many of you like honey? If this is a yes, you need to include Manuka Honey into your daily diet. This bacteria butt kicking food is great for helping work with your immune system. It is high in antibacterial levels and recommended in the treatment of ulcers, sore throats, cold sores and skin infections. All honeys boost some level of antibacterial powers, but Manuka is accepted to contain properties that are superior to those found in other strains. Add 1 teaspoon with your porridge in the morning or have it with a cup of green tea to maximise the antioxidant count which in turn will maximise your immune system and give it the boost it needs. You can even add Manuka Honey to your whey protein shakes for additional energy if using it after your workout.
Finally, the third food to boost your immune system is garlic. Garlic is so powerful and full of antioxidants that are going to fight with the bad stuff away from you. It is packed with nutrients, particularly vitamins B1, B6 and C, iron, phosphorus and allin which helps act as major antibacterial defences within the body. Garlic is great and can be used in most dishes when cooking. A small amount of this will certainly help keep you sniffing free.
Don’t forget to add these three foods into your daily routine. All your friends will want to know the secret in how you have stayed ‘cold free’ this autumn/winter. You can always refer them to this site if you do feel the need to reveal the secrets ;)
