We are living in a very fearful period. The immune system is your body’s first line of defense against germs and bacteria. But if your immune system can’t fight off those invaders, you’re more susceptible to illnesses, such as the flu or the common cold. Know that there is no single food or supplement to prevent contracting this, or any virus, but we can put our bodies in the best place to defend itself. And remember that stress compromises the immune system, so breathe and find your gratitude for all that is good. Here are some powerful, research-backed immune boosters you can stock up on to keep you as strong and healthy as possible.

Here’s to staying healthy.

Greens

Eat immune-boosting greens and organic fruits and vegetables every single day. Aim for four to six cups of leafy greens and 12 plus servings of other vegetables and fruits. 

Cinnamon

Cinnamon has antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal properties. Legend has it that during the Spanish flu outbreak, workers at cinnamon factories seemed immune to the virus. Add ¼ to ½ tsp Ceylon cinnamon smoothies, yogurt or tea. Ceylon is “real cinnamon” and the most beneficial.

Oil of Oregano

One of the most potent natural remedies; this has long been considered nature’s antibiotic. It’s used for many things but its most impressive benefits are immune and respiratory. Animal studies have shown it effective versus norovirus, it’s useful to combat foodborne illness such as salmonella as well as parasitic and yeast infections. Oil of Oregano is not suggested for infants, children or pregnant women.

Green Tea

Green Tea boosts your immune system due to an antioxidant called EGCG. It improves your production of T-cells, which help fight pathogens. I prefer green tea in the form of matcha- a super antioxidant. I love this recipe for a Super Matcha: combine 2 cups water 1 tsp fresh grated, ¼ tsp cinnamon, juice of ¼ lemon in a pot, let simmer and cover for 10 minutes. Strain. Add 1 tea. matcha, stir briskley to combine or add to Vitamix. Add sweetener to taste. Pique Tea is the most rigorously tested matcha- tested for purity and quality. I love that they are crystals and can be taken anywhere. Use code GLOW to save 10%

Ginger

Many studies suggest that ginger can enhance the immune response. It also has antiviral and antiseptic properties. You can use fresh ginger but I love the convenience of it in its powdered form (I buy mine at Costco). Make an Immunity Juice by juicing 3 lemons, 1 orange, 1 “coin” of fresh ginger and 1 coin of fresh turmeric. Once juiced pour into 2 shot glasses and top with cinnamon.

Vitamin D

Deficiency in vitamin D makes you more susceptible to infections and viruses. And for every 4 (ng/ml) you raise your D levels, you lower your risk of flu by 7%. It’s not coincidental that cold and flu season peaks when our vitamin D levels are the lowest. Vitamin D needs fat for absorption. Avoid taking D at night. If you feel you’re coming down with something, crank your vitamin D up to 30-50,000 CUs for a few days.

Fermented Foods and Probiotics

A healthy gut can have a dramatic impact on your overall health and well-being. Think of your GI tract as your bug-fighting army. The more “bugs” in your army taking up space, the less the bad guys can establish a presence. My favorite is Just Thrive. (use code GLOW!) Their formula is clinically proven to arrive 100% alive⁠ making it 1000x more effective than most brands. ⁠Collagen and bone broth are also excellent for healing your gut. Special offer until Friday, receive 20% off sitewide! Promo code:  F&F2022

Supplementing with Superfoods As I have been sharing a healthy immune system starts with what you eat — but supplementing with superfoods can help! I especially love Your Superfoods for their nutritionist designed superfood powders that are made with simple ingredients. They created an immunity bundle that features four of my favorite mixes that are loaded with immune-boosting benefits: Super Green mix: For greens & micronutrients Forever Beautiful mix: For vitamin C & antioxidants Mellow Yellow mix: For less stress & inflammation Magic Mushroom mix: For immunity & stress management Here are some of the glowing testimonials people have shared. “I’ve noticed that my immune system is so great! I haven’t caught any colds or gotten sick from my three young kids” Cherry N. “I’ve been the only one in my house to stay immune to the flu! The only thing I’m doing differently is using Your Super powders.” Janet L. You can purchase here and use code THEGLOWWELLNESS to save 15%.

Important immune boosters–Matcha, Liposomal C and Elderberry There is only one matcha on the market who tests their tea for purity and that is Pique. I have been using their tea for a while I love that they are crystals- you can bring the stick on the go. But now they have launched liposomal Vitamin C and it it insane- it includes elderberry for added immune support, and the delivery system makes it easy to absorb. When all of our immune systems need an extra boost, I cannot recommend it enough. Use code GLOW to save 10% Yummy Gummies I love this overall immune boosting gummy from Hilma too. Take daily for immune support and healthy immune function. Use code TheGlowWellness20 to save 20%!