Preparing for Autumn and the Change of Season: By Dr. Dorothy Fairley, ND
When you first feel yourself becoming sick, there are things that you can do to avoid becoming ill, or to shorten the duration of the illness. These suggestions are especially helpful if you do them early on – as early as possible. They will help you to fend off flus, colds or minor infections.
Eat very lightly or not at all – With most illnesses, the appetite is diminished. This is a natural response of the body. Energy is needed to fight, and the body doesn’t have the same energy to process food. Give your digestive tract a rest!
Get rest as soon as possible – Many people ignore the early warning signs of illness, and keep working. You will take longer to heal if you allow the illness to get a foothold. If you feel a sore throat, headache or congestion coming on, take it easy! If possible, take a day off from work. This may prevent you having to take 3 days off later on.
Drink plenty of fluids – You can help to clear the toxins from in the infection out of your system with large amounts of water and herbal teas.
Take immunity-boosting nutrients and botanicals – Vitamin C and Zinc will both increase immune response. Taking Vitamin D regularly is also recommended. There are also many botanicals that are helpful, including Echinacea, Astragalus, Ligusticum and Lomatium.
A cold or flu is a sign from the body that we need to slow down; something isn’t quite right. Take the opportunity to take a breath, and check in on yourself.