Inside Scoop: Ditch the Buckleys and whip up this Immune Boosting Elixir recipe when you feel the sniffles coming on.

Runny nose, dry and tickly throat, aching body and watery eyes… you know it when it’s coming! As a matter of fact, this is being written from the depths of a sinus infection (yes even nutritionists get sick from time to time), and a pile of Kleenex that just keeps getting higher and higher. So, we know exactly how the lack of concentration manifests, and how all you can think about is the day you can kick the cold and feel better…that’s part of the reason we dread winter- the common cold.

Okay, so we have some good news and bad news. We hope you want the bad news first because here it comes- there is no cure for the common cold. Anything you are taking because you think it will kill your cold, probably won’t. Yes, it can mask the symptoms, and if you’re going the natural route, you can strengthen your immune system, but you just need to let the cold run its course, which generally takes a few days, no matter how much Vitamin C or homeopathic medicine you take.

Now, the good news, you can manage symptoms and feel better much faster with lots of rest, liquids and a nutrient dense diet. Stress and overworking yourself might prolong your cold so use your time to take a break, Netflix and sleep until you get some more pep in your step.

What do we do when we feel a cold come on?

There are some pretty amazing foods out there that contain nutritional profiles, which make the army that is your immune system stronger. So, when we start feeling under the weather, one of the first things we do is start our morning with an immune boosting, anti-inflammatory, vitamin and enzyme rich elixir that is jam packed with those wonderful foods that help combat the common cold.

Check out this Immune Boosting Elixir which has some of the most potent ingredients, and isn’t your Buckley’s of the bunch, because it actually tastes pretty delicious too (pinky swear :)).

Lemons:

Rich in Vitamin C, lemons help to support the body’s natural defence system. They promote detoxification; helping to clear out any accumulating toxins. Lemons also have anti-bacterial properties and help to break down mucus build-up.

Raw Honey:

This ancient nectar has been used for thousands of years. Raw honey is known for its anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties. It’s rich in vitamins, minerals, enzymes and antioxidants. It’s very soothing for dry throat and helps in clearing out mucus.

Bonus Tip: Carry honey lollipops in your purse to stir into hot drinks on the go.

Bee Pollen:

You can call it a superfood as it contains almost all the nutrients required by the human body including 22 amino acids and is loaded with B vitamins and vitamin C. Bee pollen is a powerful immune system and strength booster and also has anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties.

Ginger:

Ginger is a powerful anti-inflammatory food. It’s a natural pain reliever and in fact one of its most effective uses is for painful periods. For a cold, it helps with soothing the throat and clearing the nasal passages. It also targets upper respiratory tract infections and helps ease coughing.

Turmeric:

The active compound, curcumin has gotten a lot of attention lately for its role in inhibiting cancer tumor growth. Turmeric is also an anti-inflammatory, an anti-oxidant and anti-septic. It helps with decreasing aches and pains, and boosting your overall immunity.

Cayenne:

Cayenne is considered anti-irritant, anti-cold and flu, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial. It helps to boost your circulation and aids in the detoxification of the body. Its main active component is the high amount of capsaicin that helps to thin and clear mucus, helping you breathe freely again. Cayenne also stimulates your sweat glands, which helps you sweat and reduces your body temperature-very helpful when fever is present.