COMBATTING COMMON AILMENTS WITH NUTRITION
It’s the niggly common ailments that can sometimes render us useless for the day. What is worse than going to work with an upset tummy, or not being able to shake that seasonal head cold?
Whilst we always recommend visiting your healthcare practitioner if you’re feeling under the weather, we have put together some useful nutritional nuggets that you can try at home to help you alleviate any discomfort.
Common Colds
It is no old wives tale that a simple concoction of ginger, lemon and honey can help with a cold. Inflammation is the cause of a dry cough and all three of these ingredients contain anti-inflammatory properties. Lemon can ease congestion. A 2011 laboratory study found that ginger showed a higher antibacterial effect than antibiotics against Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. S. pyogenes is the bacterium that causes streptococcal pharyngitis, known as strep throat. Ginger also displays antiviral properties. Not only is this combination of ingredients known to help a cold when it’s already upon you, but it’s also known to prevent colds due to the medicinal properties of each item.
Indigestion
Caused by stomach acid irritating your stomach lining and throat, we have all experienced that awful feeling of indigestion after a meal. Acid reflux is unpleasant and can ruin a night out.
If you know a big one is on the cards, or you are a frequent sufferer of this common ailment, try mixing one tablespoon of lemon juice and one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with 100mls of water and taking this shot before a heavy night out.
Be sure to drink it through a straw to protect your teeth as this concoction is highly acidic. Acid reflux is usually caused by too little stomach acid, so this drink will introduce more acid to the digestive tract. The acid found in these ingredients is effective against some bacteria and can act as an antimicrobial agent. Apple cider vinegar is also known to assist with weight loss as it aids the digestive process!
Dehydration
Not only is dehydration very dangerous, but it is easy to avoid. On average, adults should be consuming no less than 4 litres of water a day. Drinking the correct amount has so many benefits, including purging toxins from your skin and helping your colon absorb nutrients.
In the event you end up dehydrated, this quick drink will help your body balance itself and rehydrate.
Squeeze a lemon into 1 cup of distilled water (or reverse osmosis water) add 2 teaspoons of Himalayan Rock Salt and you have a homemade electrolyte solution. This recipe is also great for relieving migraines.
Many of the common ailments we suffer from can be attributed to something lacking in our diets. Make a note of your daily symptoms and research what nutrients you need to eliminate or alleviate those issues. By simply adding or replacing certain foods into your diet, you can minimise discomfort and maximise your body’s efficiency.
Body20 Members receive support and guidance from Nutrition Drs who will advise you on your unique dietary requirements as well as keep you motivated with exciting and delicious recipes and useful nutritional information.
Book your free demo at your nearest Studio to find out more about Body20’s holistic health offering.
