I used to get sick with the common cold 2-3 times per year, but after taking better care of my health, minor lifestyle changes, and the addition of certain supplements, I get sick maybe once per year, if that. So I thought I’d share some of my best budget-friendly immune-boosting tips. Disclaimer: I am a believer in natural medicine. If you aren’t and are not open minded about it, this blog is not for you.
Stop eating sugar
This is the one thing no one likes to hear but it’s true and the most budget-friendly tip of all. Sugar significantly suppresses the immune system. I have NEVER understood why people drink Sprite and all of the other sugary drinks somehow associated with getting over sickness… Also, be sure to look at the ingredients of medicines. Most cough syrups, cough drops, etc. have sugar or high fructose corn syrup in them. While a sugar rush might make you feel better momentarily, it will only stretch out the long term sickness.
Use the 5 “immune basics”
By “immune basics,” I am talking about vitamin C, echinacea, elderberry, zinc, and antioxidants. Yes, these vitamins are in food, but to really boost your immune system, you’ll need to supplement with them in another form as well. I am not loyal to any particular brand of supplements but please use caution and read up on any company you do choose to purchase from. Not all supplements are created equal, and not all are tested for purity. If the price looks too good to be true, it probably is. I have heard experts say to never order supplements on Amazon for this very reason – anybody and everybody could put a supplement on Amazon and there is no regulation to ensure the product being delivered is what it claims to be.
Purify the air with essential oils
I do like essential oils, but I’m not 100% sold on them like some people are. I’ve tried many that didn’t have any benefits for me, BUT Young Living’s Thieves blend is the exception. I really do believe all the hype around Thieves for immune system benefits and killing sickness in the air. It is a combination of eucalyptus, clove, cinnamon, lemon, and rosemary oils. I know there are similar blends on the market, but Young Living is known for being the highest quality oils as far as puracy standards go. Again, I’m not an expert and please do your own research! One bottle, while it is a bit pricey at $46 retail + shipping, lasts me over a year so I think the cost is worth it. You could also check Facebook Marketplace for it at a discount and without shipping costs. I’ve had good success there.
Consume adaptogenic herbs
Big words. Don’t worry, I’ll explain. Adaptogenic herbs have traditionally been used in natural medicine for treating stress and fatigue. Obviously, when your body is sick or coming down with sickness, you are more tired than usual and your body is under extra stress. Some examples are ashwagandha, reishi, rhodiola, schisandra, and ginseng to name a few. If you go to a natural foods store or online, buying each of those products individually can get really expensive, and frankly, they don’t taste great on their own so you have to mix them in other stuff. I drink a shake that has an adaptogenic blend in it to both help hide the taste, give me the nutrition benefits, and some protein in it as well. Click here for a sample pack. OR click here for a vegan version of the same product.
Prioritize sleep
I always wake up feeling under the weather if I go to bed too late…ALWAYS. I really prioritize sleep and you should too. This is always an important aspect of healthy living, but especially if your immune system is under attack.
