The “Nice” Bacteria
Foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, soy sauce, Yakult, yogurt, kefir, and Kombucha contain live probiotic cultures, safe microorganisms believed to have a vast array of health benefits—including providing a superboost to the immune system. They protect against pathogens (i.e., germs) by means of competitive inhibition. In other words, the good bacteria compete against the growth of the bad bacteria and strengthen the body’s natural defenses. Be sure to inspect the ingredients on most yogurt products, though, because many are filled with high-fructose corn syrup, which you should avoid when trying to maximize your immunity.
Sunny Side of the Street
A diet rich in fresh, colorful, raw fruits and vegetables is a diet rich in vitamin C, the mother of all cold-busters. It stimulates the body’s production of white blood cells and antibodies, which fight infection, and is known as the ultimate protector in that it increases one particular antibody, natural interferon, that coats cells and stops viruses from getting in. Some of the foods highest in vitamin C are bell peppers, kale, brussels sprouts, spinach, grapefruit, raspberries, and, of course, oranges.
Besides Eating ...
Practice regular nasal cleansing with a Neti pot; it’s a very effective way to keep your sinuses flushed. Just a little warm water and salt packet for two minutes in the shower a few times each week will help keep your mucus levels in check.
You should also monitor your coffee and alcohol intake closely, especially if you wake up with a sore throat or feel the dreaded body ache coming on during the workday. Skip that morning cup of coffee or evening glass of wine—it could be the one tactic that stops your cold from going from bad to worse.
Get plenty of rest and drink lots of water—nothing is more detrimental to the body’s natural defenses than exhaustion or dehydration. A night of tossing and turning will surely kick your symptoms into overdrive.
Finally, be mindful of your stress levels. Both psychological and physical stress will break down your immunity barrier and make you more susceptible to catching something.
Maintaining a healthy immune system may save you not only from the discomfort of being sick, but also time and money. Think of the hours you’ll avoid being on hold while you try to make a doctor’s appointment or sitting in a waiting room, and the cash you’ll save on co-payments, prescriptions, and over-the-counter medicines. Knowing that your immune system is up to speed also just might make your day-to-day commute a little more carefree.
