When you dive back into a busy fall schedule, your immune system automatically weakens. Chalk it up to stress, which leads to lost sleep, which throws hormones out of balance and compromises your body’s ability to fight off infection.
By boosting your immunity naturally with certain nutrients, you can restore your strength and keep infectious invaders at bay.
#1 Magnesium
Magnesium has been linked to the immune system. Magnesium even impacts the body's inflammation response and may help ward off asthma symptoms. Stash portions of magnesium drink mix, such as Natural Vitality’s Natural Calm, in your gym bag to mix with water after a workout, and you’ll increase your chances of returning to the treadmill tomorrow. I’m loving the different flavors too, such as cherry and raspberry-lemon. $34.45 for a 16 oz. bottle of powder
#2 Give Your Body a Round-the-Clock Dose of Vitamin C
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, up to 30% of new and remodeled buildings worldwide might be classified as “sick,” triggering symptoms such as coughs, fatigue and headaches, known as sick building syndrome (SBS), in occupants. Even in healthy offices, bacteria can linger on everything from the coffeemaker to the copy machine.
One way not to think about it? Put some extra C – such as packets of Livon Lab Lypo-Spheric Vitamin C – in your laptop bag every morning. The packet is the most bioavailable and powerful oral vitamin C supplement you can find. Simply dissolve it in your water. $29.95 per 30 packets
#3 Think Zinc
The lower your zinc levels, the more vulnerable you are to infections, according to decades of research and a review from The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. It’s clear zinc affects multiple aspects of the immune system. Additional studies have found zinc’s sickness-fighting power can be boosted by picolinic acid, which helps your body transport and absorb certain minerals. Drop this bottle of BodyBio Zinc #2 Liquid Mineral in your purse, and you’ll stay even sharper for work. The liquid is tasteless, so simply add it to water or drop straight onto your tongue. $12.15 per 2 fl oz bottle
With these three convenient ways to ensure you get your magnesium, zinc, and vitamin C, there’s no excuse for not being healthy this Fall.
In health and happiness,
Kelly Harrington, MS, RDN
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods
