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Flu season is hovering heavily over us and we can’t escape it!
Nutritionist Ariane, from Fresh New Leaf, shares three natural flu remedies that are immune-boosting and flu-fighting superheroes.
That person next to you in yoga is sniffling, you get suspicious of that handshake you just had, you shy away from the usual hugs and kisses with your friends and then there is the daily news reminding us all to be extra vigilant in our hygiene routine.
Hygiene is an important aspect that will help minimise the risk of being infected, but what about help from the inside?
A good immune system is key and it starts with having the right balance of essential vitamins and minerals, ample hydration and sufficient rest.
So what can you do to boost your immunity and help your body’s natural defence shield?
Here are 3 super defender beverages that you can rely on to fight for you:
Hot Super Tonic
This tonic comes to the rescue for the already suffering, its properties are stimulating white blood cell production which is vital for fighting against infections whilst soothing symptoms such as sore throat, fever and decongestion.
For best results, consume at night before going to bed and turn your body into a flu-fighting powerhouse.
Ingredients:
1 bulb of garlic, skin on – slightly bruised
5 cloves
10cm piece of ginger, sliced thinly
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
Slice of lemon
2 tbsp honey
Method:
Bring a medium pot to the boil using approximately 1l of filtered water.
Add garlic, clove, ginger and cayenne pepper, simmering on medium heat with lid on for 20 minutes.Pour the mixture through a sieve or colander into a large mug, stirring in the honey and top with a slice of lemon.
Green Smooth Hero
Smoothies are a great way to sneak in extra hydration, bypass the “no appetite” barrier and deliver an immune strengthening arsenal of goodness.
This smoothie is ever so special, using pineapple as its main hero, which is FIVE times more effective than over the counter cough syrup without the extra sugar and preservatives.
Parsley has been included as a magical herb combating poor immunity through its wide range of antioxidants.
Adding Kiwi and Avocado to the mix increases its Vitamin C content to four times the recommended daily allowance, making this the ultimate fighter!
Ingredients:
1 cup kiwi
1 cup pineapple
1/2 avocado
1 cup parsley
1 cup spinach
500ml filtered water
Method:
Combine all ingredients in a blender and process on high speed until smooth – enjoy!
The Super Broth
A good broth will boost your immunity, whilst clearing away the mucus in your chest and hydrating and nourishing at the same time.
We all loved Nan’s soups when we were children and science today shows us that there is more to broth than just the feeling of comfort!
Here, we are including top functional ingredients such as seaweed, ginger and turmeric to speed up recovery and making this ultimate Super Broth.
Ingredients:
2.5l filtered water
5cm piece of ginger, peeled and sliced
1tbsp coconut oil
2 cloves of finely sliced garlic
1 spring onion, peeled and sliced
1 leek, sliced
1 carrot sliced
1 medium potato, cubed
1 cup collard greens
1/2 cup button mushrooms
1/2 cup dried mushrooms
1tsp turmeric (dried or fresh grated)
1tbsp dried shredded seaweed
Seasonings: Cayenne pepper, Himalayan salt
Method:
Bring a large pot of water to the boil. Add all ingredients except seaweed and cook on medium for approximately 1 hour. Sprinkle the seaweed as last step and serve immediately.
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