3 Essential Vitamins for Winter

Winter really has a way of getting the best of us - it soaks up our energy, causes seasonal sniffles and colds, can cause joint pain and just makes us not feel our best. 

That being said, many of these may be caused by a lack in nutrition. This is why replenishing your system with the following vitamins is key when it comes to putting a little pep back into your step.

1. B Vitamins are some of the best vitamins you can take not only for immune health, but for energy, too. This energetic group of vitamins is responsible for converting carbs into energy by breaking down fat and protein into fuel. Your B vitamins, especially B12, are so important during the winter months because not only can they offer more energy when you're feeling zapped on a dreary day, but they also assist in reducing depressed moods, anxiety and seasonal affective disorder, or SAD. 
2. Vitamin C is one of the most common vitamins for aiding in immunity. Not only this, but it's also a natural antihistamine, which means it helps with seasonal allergies, too. This powerful antioxidant has so many functions in the body, such as boosting your immune system, detoxing your cells, building collagen in the skin, promoting heart health, and fighting adrenal fatigue. It's really a no-brainer to take vitamin C year-round. And because it's all too commonly asked, no, drinking orange juice is simply not enough. Orange juice is very high in sugar, which contributes to weight gain and low immunity. Additionally, it doesn't provide enough vitamin C to help fight off sickness. It is recommended to take 3,000-4,000 mg of vitamin C daily, and you can nearly double that when you're trying to fight off an infection.
3. Vitamin D is a vitamin that is most commonly referred to as "the sunshine vitamin". While we can absorb some vitamin D from natural sunlight, not only are we not exposed as frequently in the winter months, but it's not quite enough vitamin D to help your body's immune system stay in tip-top shape. Without sufficient vitamin D, the body can't stimulate the immune response that protect us from colds and infection.

With the harsh days of winter ahead, it is crucial that you load up on your B, C and D vitamin stores so that your immune system is ready to play defense. Fortunately, all of these nutrients can be found in liquid form, which makes taking your vitamins easier than ever before!

What are your go-to nutrients for keeping energized and healthy during the winter months? Share in the comments below.

5 Ways to Beat Cold & Flu Season Naturally

Coughing, sneezing and sniffles are in the air and can only mean one thing, cold and flu season has arrived. In addition to the weather constantly changing, our immune systems become compromised and therefore, weakened, causing us to be more likely to develop a cold or worse, the flu. 

During this time of year it is absolutely critical that you keep your immune system top of mind. The good news? You can boost your immune system naturally and without the use of over-the-counter drugs or cold/flu medications.

Similar to building up strength in your muscles, you also need the same type of persistence when working to build up your immune system, and even more so if you are an allergy sufferer. Frustrating fatigue, itchy and watery eyes, an obnoxious cough and debilitating headaches are the last thing you want or need, especially during the busy holiday season.

A strong immune system helps you fight off common colds, germs, viruses and the flu. And for those who suffer from allergies, a strong immune system has been shown to also improve your allergy symptoms, too. 

Below are 5 easy ways you can boost your immune system naturally:

1. Get plenty of sleep. Getting at least 7-8 hours of rest each night is magical when it comes to your total health, and especially when it comes to your immune system. Too little sleep with too much stress negative impacts your hormones, causing hormonal fluctuations at night, keeping you awake when you should be catching some z's.
2. Remember your probiotics. Probiotics, also known as "the good bacteria", are some of the best nutrients you can offer your body. Not only do they support overall gut health, but these beneficial strains of bacteria support a strong immune system, too. Just as you take your multivitamin and vitamin D daily, probiotics should always be a part of your daily health routine as well.
3. Get some sun. That's right. Step outside and get some good ol' natural vitamin D to help boost that immune system of your's. At least 10-15 minutes a day of direct sunlight helps your body to absorb a fair amount of vitamin D, which helps not only strengthen your immune system, but your bones, too.
4. Add more garlic. In fact, add garlic to everything! This natural antimicrobial agent works as a natural immune booster when added to your recipes. For optimal use, add raw, natural garlic to your recipes. (Just don't forget to brush afterwards!)
5. Increase your vitamin C. Known as one of the most versatile and useful nutrients on the market, vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant and antihistamine, helping to block your body from reacting to allergens and boost your immunity. If you're one to experience a cold every season, it's safe to double up on your vitamin C, as your body excretes whatever it doesn't use or need.

What is the ONE nutrient you rely on most when it comes to keeping your immune system strong and healthy?