I Don’t Like Chicken Soup or Orange Juice.

So basically, most of the home-remedies that people recommend when one is sick, well, they don't work for me. I don't make or eat chicken soup. It's just not my favorite. And orange juice, again, not my favorite. What do I do?

In the last year or so I have only been sick one time. Knock on wood. It was after traveling to the east coast for the holidays this winter. I blame the flight, and possibly the extreme weather-change shock that my body likely experienced. That said, my approach to combating sickness is a multi-faceted approach.

My Cold Prevention Tips

1. Get plenty of sleep.
   Keeping yourself well rested puts your body's first line of defense in the strongest position possible to fight infection. You'll also be more likely to make smart choices in your diet, and not cave to cravings if you've slept enough.
2. Keep your diet nutrient-dense.
   Chicken soup and orange juice aren't the worst things for a cold, but I wouldn't say they're the best either. There's no reason you need to stick to them, especially if they're not your favorites. Soups are great because they can be packed with veggies and the extra liquid is always helpful when you're sick. I'd recommend taking a bit of energy before a cold hits you this winter to make a big pot of soup. Keep some frozen to heat up on the stove anytime. Use home-made stock and whatever fresh veggies are in your fridge. I'll post a basic recipe soon that you can use as a starter, but adjust it to your own taste.I am also a fairly firm believer in eating organic foods whenever possible. And I'm not talking about organic corn chips and hot dog rolls. I mean produce. Organic, local (when possible- I know this is WAY easier in CA than on the east coast, for example) produce. Organic, grass-fed meats. Fueling your body with the best foods will keep it working better.It's not rocket science. Would you put something other than gasoline in your gas tank? Why put things that are not actually food into your body? Of course there are exceptions. And I don't think it's realistic to think we can eat “perfectly” 100% of the time. But we should aim to eat high quality meats, veggies and fruits 80% of the time. (Hint: If it's in a box or has a long shelf-life, it's in the 20%).
3. Use a Neti Pot
   Sometimes the idea of this freaks people out, but once they try it, they see it's really pretty simple and painless. Check it out. Get one. Keep it handy and use it before you feel sickness coming on, or at the slightest feeling. You can also use it regularly as you like.
4. Keep Moving.
   Regular exercise is important when you're keeping healthy and avoiding a cold. Your body will be in good fighting shape if you're well rested, well fed and your immune system is pumping at it's best. If you feel a cold coming on, exercise is still a good idea. If you're already sick and it's centralized in your chest, it may not be the right thing to do. You know your body best, but remember that exercise will boost your immunity if you're feeling up to working out.

Okay, I could probably elaborate a bit more on this post, but in following my own advice, I'm off to the gym. Breakfast today was kale, broccoli and black beans sauteed in bacon fat and coconut oil. All organic, packed with nutrients, and totally delicious. Normally I'd have added an egg or two, but I didn't want to pile it on before I'm about to move around a lot. I feel fueled to go rock out in my class now. Happy Sunday.