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This one may surprise you…….. There is a deep connection between seasonal illnesses with the changing habits and foods of the season. Let me explain: During the holidays, with the extremes of early nights and temperature drops of winter, we start to see the colds, flus and other bugs appear. These illnesses pass through daycares, schools, families, companies, and neighborhoods like clockwork. There is a DIRECT connection between the junk food of the holidays all the way to easter time and getting sick. Sugar Suppresses Immune Function Consuming too much sugar (especially refined sugars) can reduce white blood cell activity for several hours. This makes it harder for your body to fight off infections, including the flu. Sugar Promotes Inflammation
High sugar intake can trigger inflammation, worsening flu symptoms like body aches and congestion. Chronic inflammation also weakens the immune response over time. Sugar Feeds Bad Gut Bacteria
The gut plays a major role in immune health, and excess sugar can lead to an imbalance in gut bacteria. A weakened gut microbiome makes you more susceptible to infections. Sugar Can Dehydrate You
Flu recovery requires proper hydration, but sugar can lead to dehydration by drawing water out of your cells. This can make symptoms like sore throat and mucus buildup worse. Lowering sugar intake and boosting immunity go hand in hand. Here are some practical tips to help you do both: Swap Out Sugary Drinks Avoid: Soda, fruit juices, energy drinks, and sweetened coffee/tea. Swap these for: Herbal teas, lemon water, coconut water without sweeteners, or diluted fresh fruit juice. Eat Whole Fruits Instead of Processed Sugar Whole fruits contain fiber, which slows sugar absorption. Berries, citrus fruits, and apples are great options with immune-boosting vitamins. Choose Complex Carbs Over Refined Sugars Avoid: White bread, pastries, sugary cereals.
Swap these for: Whole grains (quinoa, oats, brown rice), legumes, and starchy veggies. Focus on Protein and Healthy Fats Both protein and fats stabilize blood sugar. Keeping blood sugar stable is optimum for a healthy immune system! Read Food Labels Carefully Hidden sugars are in sauces, dressings, flavored yogurts, and even “healthy” granola bars. Look for names like high fructose corn syrup, dextrose, maltose, and cane juice.
Stay tuned for my next Masterclass! All about Dyes, and this includes MOST Ultra-processed foods! Look on Events page to sign up for the free link on my page. Details to follow! For more info, Here is a Dr Hyman video to explore: https://youtu.be/BYFxw5E6iQg?si=HhiV4Pfm3jx_YcTH Remember we are all BIOINDIVIDUAL, what works for one does not work the same for another.
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