I recently posted my thoughts on why we don’t get the vaccination in our house and some ugly facts about the flu shot. Without the shot, you may wonder how to stay healthy and protect yourself against this nasty season of colds and stomach bugs. From taking a daily vitamin to getting plenty of sleep and vitamin C to eating the right types of fruits and vegetables every day, there are a number of natural ways to build up your immune system to fight against germs.
There are also many natural flu smoothies or blends that you can whip up as soon as you start to feel something creep up on you. Because most of these recipes have all-natural ingredients, you can take this as soon as you are feeling under the weather – no need to worry about overdosing on medicines or weakening your immune system with chemicals and drugs!
The Flu Shot Smoothie
This particular recipe I found and have been using is jam packed with immunity-boosting, flu-fighting ingredients and is sure to get you back on your feet in no time. Having used this before, I can say that the flavor isn’t exactly exciting, but it’s definitely manageable enough to drink a cup or two when you need it most. It’s really the after-zing that gets me, so have something tasty ready to chase it down with.
And an added bonus: these ingredients are so cheap to buy and the powders and honey you can use with multiple batches throughout the season – much cheaper than doctor visits, prescriptions drugs and time off of work!
Ingredients:
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced or chopped – strengthens the immune system as well as helps to fight chest infections, coughs and congestion
- 2 tbsp on ginger powder – clears the ‘microcirculatory channels’ of the body, including the pesky sinuses; a great stomach calmer for flu or nausea
- juice from 6 lemons – has strong antibacterial, antiviral, and immune-boosting powers; reduces fevers; filled with immunity-boosting Vitamin C; antiviral properties to fight off the virus on the mucous membranes in the nose and throat
- 2 tbsp on honey – is anti-bacterial and anti-fungal; reduces cough and throat irritation
- 1/4 tbsp of cayenne pepper – is a well-known digestive aid; breaks up and moving congested mucus; is an anti- agent and helps relieve allergies;
- 3 cups of pineapple juice – rich in vitamin C and can fight off viruses; has bromelain, which is effective in suppressing coughs and loosening mucus
Directions:
Blend everything together and drink 1 cup 3-4 times days until you are feeling better – or even beyond that to strengthen an already-weakened immune system and build up your defenses! Store extra juice in a glass jar and refrigerate.
** This article and the information presented in it are my own opinions and personal research and are not intended to be medical advice. Please consult a professional before making any medical decisions!
Katherine Smith | Love is the reason I write. 