LIVE WELL
Stay Stong This Winter
How sick you become when a bacterial or viral invader targets you will depend largely on how strong a defence your immune system can launch against it. Also, when it comes to illness, infectious agents are not always to blame – nutrient deficiencies, degenerative ailments like osteoarthritis, and glitches in an organ or gland will all weaken immunity. For example, diabetes occurs when the pancreas produces too little of the hormone insulin, which results in an increased susceptibility to infections as well as high blood sugar levels. The good news is you have many natural options available to get your amazing fighting forces ready for battle. Charge up your immune system with fortifying superfoods and natural lifestyle changes to beat the cold-weather blues. Winter nourishment that works When the temperature drops, your body naturally craves warming, nourishing foods – and this is more than just comfort. Traditional staples like bone broth are rich in key nutrients that support immune resilience during the colder months. Products like Best of the Bone Chicken Concentrate make it easy to incorporate this age-old remedy into modern routines. Slow-cooked to extract collagen, amino acids and essential minerals, bone broth helps support gut health – which plays a critical role in immunity – while also contributing to joint support and overall vitality. The concentrated format means a simple spoonful can be stirred into hot water for a daily tonic or added to soups, broths and slow-cooked meals for a nourishing boost. It’s an easy, practical way to fuel your body, support recovery and stay strong through winter.
Herbs for Health • Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) , also called purple coneflower, is effective in fighting the viruses that cause colds and flu. Products are available in tablet, capsule and tincture forms; because strengths vary from brand to brand, it is best to follow the label directions. • Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) has been used for over 2000 years in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medical practice. It is highly valued for fighting colds, flu and sinus infections, because it prevents viruses from getting a foothold in the respiratory system. • Medicinal mushroom extracts , notably maitake, shiitake and reishi, help to bolster immunity. • Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) and oil of oregano (Origanum vulgare) are both natural antiseptics. Add a few drops to the water in the bowl of an essential oil diffuser and use in your home and workspace to purify the air. • Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) helps to heal sore throats and cold sores, which can often be more prevalent in dry or windy weather. Add a few drops of goldenseal tincture to half a cup of warm water and gargle with it or swish it around your mouth. • Garlic (Allium sativum) is probably best known for its prowess in warding off heart problems. It contains compounds that thin the blood, thus preventing blood clots that trigger heart attacks, as well as antioxidants that lower blood pressure, keep the arteries flexible and reduce both low-density lipoprotein (LDL or ‘bad’ cholesterol) and total cholesterol levels. Garlic also has powerful antimicrobial and antibiotic properties and helps to increase immunity by stimulating production of the white blood cells that fight infections.
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ISSUE 77 • 2026
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