October 2020 Corporate Newsletter

FALL INTO IMMUNITY BOOSTING HABITS

With cold and flu season taking on new meaning this year, we’re all looking for ways to boost up our immunity and keep ourselves and our families healthy. The first line of defense for immunity is to ensure you are following a healthy lifestyle. Following general healthy living guidelines not only keeps your immunity in check, but can also prevent the onset of chronic disease.

General Health Guidelines

The following healthy living guidelines can set you on the right path towards a strong immune system:

• Don’t smoke

• Eat at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables daily

• Exercise regularly

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Drink alcohol in moderation

• Get 7-9 hours of sleep a night

• Wash hands frequently

• Follow food safety guidelines

• Manage and minimize stress

Eat Your Way to Stronger Immunity

Consuming the right types of foods can help keep your immunity in check:

• Nutrients linked to immunity including zinc, selenium, iron, copper, folic acid, and vitamins A, B, C, D, and E

• Antioxidants and phytonutrients obtained from mostly plant-based foods

• Pre and Probiotics that support gut health

Are “Immunity Boosting” Supplements Worth It?

Before purchasing that supplement bottle or powder promising “immunity boosting” super powers, do a little homework first. Remember – most supplements are not properly tested or regulated by the FDA. Instead, do a self-assessment to determine if you’re consuming the right foods that will help promote immunity. If you feel your diet is lacking in certain nutrient-rich foods, such as vegetables, a multivitamin can help to minimize deficiencies, but taking megadoses of single nutrients will not.

Move More

Regular exercise and movement isn’t just for managing weight, but also helps reduce stress while increasing immunity. Exercise can contribute to overall good health, which in turn nurtures a healthy immune system. Exercise also promotes good circulation, which helps immune-promoting cells and substances to move throughout the body more efficiently.

Some ways to get more movement in your day, especially while working from home:

• Aim to stand up every 30 minutes

• Move and stretch while working at your desk

• Use earbuds or headsets to stand and move during calls and presentations

• Get outside for a walk (added bonuses – you’ll get some vitamin D while also reducing stress)

• Plug time into your daily calendar to do exercises including cardiovascular movement and strength training

Include power produce on your plate each day

What are some approaches you’re taking towards boosting your immunity more this year?

RECIPE CORNER: IMMUNITY BOOSTERS

Immune Boosting Turmeric Tea

INGREDIENTS:

5 cups of water

The yellow peel of 1 lemon

2-inch piece of ginger cut in thin rounds, skin on

Tiny pinch of cayenne pepper

1 crack of black pepper

Juice of 1 lemon

1 teaspoon virgin coconut oil, butter, or avocado oil

Honey

PREPARATION:

Bring the water, lemon peel, ginger, turmeric, cayenne, and black pepper to a bare simmer, turn the heat down to low, and cook for 7 minutes. You don’t want the pot to bubble or boil; it’s harmful to the nutrients in the turmeric. Take off the heat, squeeze in the lemon juice, and stir in the coconut oil. Strain the tea into a cup and add 1 teaspoon of honey.

Serves 5

Cocoa Almond Smoothie

INGREDIENTS:

½ frozen banana

1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder (baking section)

1-2 teaspoon maple syrup

2 tablespoons almond butter

½ -3/4 cup almond milk (unsweetened)

3-4 ice cubes

PREPARATION:

In a Blender (Vitamix or NutriBullet), place frozen items on the bottom. Blend.

Serves 1 - 2

October 2020 Newsletter