Sisters for Yah

For Your Health

by Anonymous

Cold and Flu Season

Many people dread winter because with it comes a whole slew of problems, including sniffles and coughs! But you can take steps to prevent getting sick this winter season. Here are some practical tips to reduce picking up a nasty bug:

1. Keep your hands clean, use alcohol based hand sanitizers, and avoid touching your face for any reason!

2. Eat healthy and avoid sugar as much as possible. You’ll want your immune system to stay as strong as possible. Many studies are now finding that consuming sugar can impair your immune system for several hours. Load up on lean protein, whole grains, and tons of veggies and fruits.

3. Avoid crowds as much as you can—large malls and supermarkets can be notorious breeding grounds for germs.

4. Try taking natural supplements such as garlic tablets—more and more studies are showing that garlic is a powerful immune system booster. While you’re at it, add fresh garlic to your cooking but don’t overcook it.

5. Natural remedies can also help if you do get sick. For a sore throat you can gargle with salt water every few hours.If you have body aches, soaking in a hot bath tub with Epsom salt can be soothing.Get plenty of rest and drink more fluids especially water and herbal teas with lemon and honey. For tummy aches, ginger tea can help. Grate 1/4 cup of fresh ginger and boil in two cups of water for 5 minutes. Strain out ginger and sip slowly. Refrigerate any leftovers for later.

Hot Dog Hazard

Columbia University Medical Center have found that eating cured meats that contain nitrates may double your risk for lung disease. In fact, people who ate cured meats 14 times per month were almost twice as likely to have COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder). The occasional hot dog won’t kill you, but you’re far better off opting for the nitrate-free varieties such as those found in health food stores. Be a label reader—steer clear of those that say sodium nitrate or potassium nitrate.

Fight High Blood Pressure

The biggest way to lower your blood pressure is to cut back on sodium. Eat potassium-rich foods, unless your doctor forbids it—some people with kidney ailments shouldn't have excessive potassium. High potassium foods include, sweet potatoes, bananas, orange juice, oatmeal, cantaloupe, halibut, and yogurt.

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