If 'C' is the super immunity vitamin, then zinc wins the prize as the super immunity mineral. The richest food sources of zinc include beef, lamb, pork and salmon and as well as dairy products, whole grains, beans, nuts and nut butters, pumpkin and sunflower seeds. Zinc lozenges are also widely available (and very effective for sore throats) in most health food stores.
6. Avoid overdoing it on refined flours or sugars
Too much white sugar and flour will not only contribute to weight gain, but can also crash your immune system. Instead of products with white flours or sugars, substitute breads and baked goods made with whole grains and natural sweets such as fruit or fruit juice.
7. Keep active
Continue your exercise routine through the winter to stay fit, boost your immune system function, decrease stress and keep your weight down.
If you have exercise equipment at home, fitting in a 45 minute work out three to five times a week should not be a problem. Otherwise, invest in some fitness DVDs, a gym membership or bundle up and go outside for a winter walk. For those of us on a busy schedule, fitting it all in can seem difficult. I recommend waking up an hour earlier during the week and maximizing weekend workouts.
Your nutrition, exercise and supplement regime can help to boost immune system function and keep you healthy and strong this winter. Wishing you a wonderful winter season!
Read more:
• Expert tips on staying flu-free
• Should you get a flu shot?
• The 5 best antioxidant-rich foods
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Dr. Joey Shulman DC, RHN is author of the best selling book The Last 15 – A Weight Loss Breakthrough and is founder of The Shulman Weight Loss Clinic. For more information, please visit www.drjoey.com
