While trying to keep up with the crazy
rat race we are all a part of, it's easy to become exhausted and worn out.
Between keeping up with work, school, family, friends and anything else you
might have on your plate, your body and defenses often get pushed to the limit.
If you find yourself feeling like you're running on E and want to ward off any
potential illnesses that might take over while your body feels extra weak and
sensitive, try incorporating some or all of the items below into your diet
however you can—via supplement or good, ole-fashioned eating.
Spirulina
Probably the least-well known of the
three suggestions in this article, spirulina is
actually a type of algae that is typically blue-green in color. It is rich in
vitamins and nutrients such as carotenoids, zinc, beta-carotene and B complex,
but can be harmful if taken from an unfamiliar brand.
Research has shown this to increase
antibody production, meaning it helps support your immune system. More research
is still required to verify all of the specific benefits it boasts, but it's
been said to decrease diabetes and allergies. Some have complained about the
taste, so it is often recommended to take Spirulina supplements that offer all
the goods of the actual plant.
Echinacea
Used by Native Americans for hundreds of
years, the wonders of echinacea
are far and wide. Easily available in pill form at pharmacies and grocery
stores, many people swear by the magic herb. Working WITH our immune system,
one thing Echinacea does is increase levels of interferon in our system. This
protein is known to ward off viruses that might overtake us. Very few side effects are associated with the
herb, but it is urged to deter from ingestion if you are pregnant,
breast-feeding, or have a disorder such as lupus, multiple sclerosis or other
immune system disorders.
Garlic
Present in almost everyone's spice
cabinet or kitchen, garlic has been known to stimulate production of
white-blood cells, which are constantly busy fighting off infections. It has
also been proven that is makes our bodies' antibody production more efficient
and powerful, making us better-oiled machines. It’s believed that the sulfur
the garlic contains is what holds the secret to its power. It has also been
shown to ward off certain types of cancer, although the medical community is
not willing to jump completely on board with that belief just yet. It has also
been shown to be great for the heart, so really, if you aren't already eating
garlic, you should be.
And, for those of you who are less than
fond of its extra-potent flavor, many stores sell garlic supplements in
easy-to-swallow pills. Whatever it takes and whatever works for you, just get
more of this in your diet now—your body will thank you.
So, no matter your age or occupation,
the next time you feel a little bug coming on, consider trying one of these
options rather than the traditional antibiotics and meds your doctor is likely
to prescribe.
Aniya Wells particularly loves reading
and writing about online education, although her interests span different
niches as well, including personal finance, parenting, sustainable living, and
more. Accredited online degree
programs are hard to find in the online morass of scams, so Aniya's
ultimate goal is to help her readers figure out the maze of online education.
She can be reached for questions or comments at aniyawells@gmail.com.
