WINTER! Really?

Winter! Not really one of my favorite seasons. I’m 85, which means I’m also in the winter of my life and of course my immune system has weakened over the years (along with other things). Age isn’t the only reason our systems begin to fail us. The food we eat doesn’t have the nutrition it had 40 or 50s years ago. Just thought I would give you some “food for thought” to help you prepare yourself for the coming flu and cold season. We don’t do the flu shots because we believe, and have proven to ourselves, that a strong immune system works better.

In October, take a deep breath and hold it until May. Okay, stop! stop! that doesn’t work! But, some antioxidant vitamins such as A, C and E, should help you scoot through winter safely. These vitamins will help combat and even reverse the ravages of time on your immune system. Vitamin D is essential and has been shown to fight autoimmune disorders. Vitamin E is a booster and neutralizer of the damaging effects of environmental contaminants. Zinc helps guard against the common cold and flu. Since the body does not store this essential element, daily supplementation is necessary. Consider olive leaf extract, as it helps optimize your natural defense system, protect against environmental stress and even reduce inflammation. There are other vitamins and foods that are helpful, but these are the main ones we take, plus an all around whole food multiple vitamin. Also, be aware that synthetic vitamins will not be recognized by your body and can even be harmful.

Now, make some chicken soup and freeze it in small bags to have should you fall prey to the guy spewing germs all over the place. As mother used to say, wear your boots and head gear, stay warm and dry and get plenty of rest.

See you next time with a healthy recipe that will knock your socks off.