Whoever said ‘let your food be your medicine, and your medicine your food’ was on the right track. True wellbeing involves having a diet that gives you all the nutrients you need, without having to resort to pharmaceutical solutions. Indeed, nature gives us all the things we need for total wellness, we just have to know how to look for them. Start to be aware of the true value of the groceries on your supermarket’s shelves; you can ensure the health of your whole family by doing so!
Ginger – Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) favours fresh ginger root as a treatment for colds and sinus pain. Traditionally, it is thought that ginger contains strong yang energy, which warms up the stomach and lungs. The undeniable warming effect is great for a sore throat – simply mash it up and add it to hot water with lemon, or even chew it, and feel its healing properties as it runs down your throat.
Mushrooms – TCM uses hundreds of species of mushrooms in its treatments, many of which are said to boost immunity. Most contain Germanium, a substance that boosts oxygen efficiency, hence strengthening the body’s ability to fight diseases. The beta-glucans content in mushrooms is also thought to help fight colds and flu. Shiitake Mushrooms are excellent for boosting circulation, and Reishi mushrooms are a favourite in TCM for their anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Garlic – Now a popular food supplement in capsule form, garlic is an immunity-enhancing food that adds flavour to almost any dish! According to a recent study, participants who took a garlic supplement were 66% less likely to catch a cold than the control group. It’s not only excellent for immunity; garlic is an excellent preventative for stomach cancer, and helps you fight bacteria and cholesterol too.
Green Tea – A favourite Asian drink for many centuries, the West is now learning to appreciate the antioxidants in Green Tea, which boost the immune system against colds and flu. The contribution to the oxygen flow in your body makes it a perfect detox too!
Black Tea – Caffeine is usually slated in complementary health circles, but you should not forget that black tea contains some very healthy compounds. L-theanine is known to boost the immune system, and the polyphenols are anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory. Be careful with adding milk, though, as some researchers think it interferes with the body’s absorption of these elements.
These are just a few examples of the wellness benefits you can get from food. The full list is endless, and makes fascinating reading for those who are pursuing a holistic lifestyle.
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