I’m currently sick in bed as I write this. It’s that time of year – the weather has transitioned to basically freezing (okay, it’s only about 40 degrees in DC but I am not a fan of the cold), it’s the holidays and I’ve been busy preparing for everything that’s coming up in the next couple of months. Considering I rarely ever get sick, I thought I’d share some of my favorite remedies to prevent colds and eliminate them once you’ve already caught one.
Bone Broth
Bone broth is full of vitamins and minerals as well as healthy fats. It strengthens the lining of the stomach as well. Considering all of these benefits, it’s also make it an amazing immune booster.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal. It is rich in lauric acid and medium chain triglycerides. I aim to take at least 2 tbsps a day. A maintenance dose is great at preventing colds, if you find that you already have a cold, it’s amazingly effective at curing a cold once you already have one.
Get coconut oil here.
Cinnamon and Honey
A mixture of cinnamon and raw honey are anti-viral and very healing. Eating a small amount several times a day will help knock out a cold.
Not all honey is created equal! Some is laced with cheap fillers, and most of it isn’t actually raw. I suggest this brand.
Probiotics
Probiotics are necessary for a properly functioning immune system. You’ve probably heard that 90% of your immune system is in your gut. Probiotics strengthen the gut and provide a proper balance of gut flora.
The probiotics I recommend can be found here.
Elderberry
Elderberry is anti-viral and extremely effective at killing the viruses that cause cold and flu. I suggest taking it when you feel a cold coming on.
Elderberry is super cheap and can be found here.
Apple Cider Vinegar
ACV is a fermented drink that is rich in amino acids, vitamin and minerals. I make an ACV shot by mixing it with water, cayenne, honey and turmeric.
My favorite brand of ACV can be found here.
Raw Garlic
Russians don’t call it nature’s penicillin for nothin’! Raw garlic is anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral as well. Not only will it help knock out a cold, but will strengthen the GI tract.
If you don’t want to take raw garlic, you can use this pill (which has no taste).
Turmeric
Turmeric is extremely anti-inflammatory and is a great addition to your diet. It boosts the immune system and strengthens it to fight against viruses.
You can add turmeric to your food or take this supplement.
Cod Liver Oil
One of the reasons the cold and flu are so prominent during winter months is because our level of vitamin D drops due to the lack of sunlight. A lack of vitamin D leads to a weakened immune system, so when your body encounters a virus, it is much less efficient at fighting it. CLO is not only rich in vitamins D and A, but also in omega-3 fatty acids.
You can find CLO here.
