We were taught in medical school about the immune system, digestive system, and nervous system, but we learned about them as separate entities.
However, that’s not really how the body works.
Everything is connected. We don’t have fences in the body so inflammation in one area is inflammation everywhere. Dysfunction in one system, eventually leads to dysfunction in other systems.
While the innate immune system is crucial for our survival and some inflammation is needed at times, excessive inflammation is where things go sideways.
In my book, Healthy Kids, Happy Moms, I talk extensively about inflammation and decreasing your “cup.”
Preventing Summer Colds
When it comes to preventing summer colds (or illnesses at any time of the year for that matter), minimal inflammation allows all our systems to work optimally.
Digestive System
Ingredients like refined sweeteners, artificial colors, and processed vegetable oils all wreak havoc on the digestive system and your body’s ability to fight off viruses and infections.
The role of food on our immune system should not be taken lightly.
Focus on drinking filtered water, adding in more greens, and swapping processed foods for real food snacks that are naturally sweet. Also incorporate more clean proteins and healthy fats.
My free 7-Day Mini Cleanse provides step by step guidance for a quick reset!
Nervous System & Stress Management
Exercise, sunshine, and quality sleep help optimize your nervous system by regulating stress, boosting endorphins, and giving your body and mind the rest it needs.
If you really want to take it to the next level, try out the Wim Hof Method. This method combines cold plunging and deep breathing. This technique has been shown to reduce inflammatory markers on blood work.
To say I’m into cold plunging is an understatement… I’m OBSESSED with it.
I recommend doing a cold plunge for two minutes every morning–it’s worth it, I promise!
Remedies for Summer Colds
It happens… Sometimes despite our best efforts at prevention through eating well, exercising, getting enough sleep, and managing stress, we still get sick.
Don’t worry! Getting through a cold might be easier than you think.
Give your body what it needs so your immune system can properly fight off the infection as quickly as possible.
Remedies I like to use for colds are:
- Deep, Restorative Sleep: Otherwise known as autophagy, sleep is your body’s method for cleaning house.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids and replenish electrolytes with Ultima. Having broth and broth-based soups are a great way to incorporate added hydration into your meals when sick.
- Zinc: Evidence suggests that starting Zinc within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms can reduce the length of time of a cold.
- PureZyme, Protease: Taking HKHM PureZyme is like “sending more soldiers to the battle site” to naturally reduce inflammation and fevers. Take 1 capsule up to 4 times a day, ideally on an empty stomach.
- Liposomal Vitamin C: The HKHM Vitamin C has antiviral and anti-bacterial properties; it also mitigates histamine release which can help decrease allergy symptoms.
- Nasal Irrigation: The Neti Pot helps thin and soothe the nasal mucosa. It flushes allergens and activates white blood cells, which may ultimately help prevent sinus infections. For kids, I recommend the Frida Baby Nasal Aspirator to clear stubborn snot.
- Wet Sock Technique: This strategy helps with reducing nasal congestion and cough. Learn how to do it here.
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