Happy October!
A lot of things can prevent you from achieving the results you want with your fitness program.
This time of year, a biggie to watch for is getting sick…
Missing time, or being inconsistent is a very easy way to derail your fitness program.
For that reason, one of the most overlooked fitness success secrets is simply to stay healthy!
Easier said than done, right?
I mean, the kids are constantly bringing some kind of bug home, and at work, everyone in the office is breathing re-circulated air which means that, if one person gets sick…
…It’s OVER.
On today’s blog I share 5 easy ways to keep yourself fit as a fiddle, even when everyone around you is getting blown up by viruses. It’s a quick read, check it out. Here they are in order of importance:
1. Rest. Sleep deprivation is a big immune system killer. If you’d like to be impervious to colds and flus, make getting those “z’s” a priority. Anytime I start feeling rundown or start getting a tickle in my throat like I’m coming down with something, that’s a sure sign to slow down and rest. Usually a great night’s sleep is all I need, and I’m back on my feet the next day.
Also, it might surprise you, but I’d recommend you don’t workout when sick or when you feel it coming on. Pushing yourself will temporarily weaken your immune system, and could make things worse. Moderate exercise, on the other hand, can temporarily increase immune function. Opt for a brief, moderate workout, or complete rest.
2. Avoid Sugar. Eating sugar, or processed foods will suck the strength out of your immune system and increase your odds of getting sick. Ditto for alcohol. Keep these to a minimum, and if you feel yourself getting sick, avoid them altogether.
3. Oregano Oil. You can find Oil of Oregano at almost any health food store. Did you know that it is an extremely powerful anti-viral? I personally take a few drops in a cup of tea, 2-3 times a day, whenever I feel there’s even a chance I might get sick, and that’s usually the end of it right there.
There’s even been times where I already was sick, and I was already almost back to 100% the next day thanks to Oregano Oil. It’s my secret weapon against seasonal colds and flus. You can also take a few drops under the tongue. That works well too, but just a heads up, it’s kind of nasty!
4. Echinacea. The herb Echinacea is famous for it’s immune system enhancing benefits. My preference is to drink it as a tea, with a few drops of Oregano Oil.
If taking it as a supplement, just know that there are two types, Echinacea Purpurea and Echinacea Angustfolia. The Purpurea is more common in supplements, but the Angustfolia is more potent and works better.
5. B and C vitamins. Because illness is an indication of a body under stress, taking a good B-Complex can help. B’s are your anti-stress vitamins. Vitamin C is also well known for its beneficial effects.
Super high doses of Vitamin C (up to 10,000mg a day) have been effective for me in the past. It’s not harmful, you’ll just pee out what your body doesn’t use. Although I take Vitamin C every day, the Oregano Oil is still my first choice as far as a supplement goes for a short term immune system boost.
6. Wash your hands & don’t touch your face! That was my “parental” moment. Most viruses are communicated by touch, so when it’s cold and flu season, make a point to wash your hands regularly with soap and water, and avoid putting your hands and fingers near your mouth! You don’t know where they’ve been!
I mean, they’ve even found traces of feces on those poles you hang onto when standing on the subway. From parental to gross. A good blog post should take it’s readers through a range of emotions. ; )
Also, here’s an unannounced bonus tip…if you’re sick, stay home!
This may surprise you, but nobody wants your germs. In fact, your presence completely turns them off. Be part of the solution instead of part of the problem and help stop the spreading of viruses.
For our part, it’s a real pet peeve when someone is coughing, sputtering, and sneezing while working out. Everyone in the gym is breathing heavy, and touching the same weights and machines! If you stay in and rest, you’ll heal faster anyway.
We wish you a swift recovery…we just don’t want to see you until then. : )
Do you have any folk remedies that strangely have worked for you in the past? Any stories about people showing up sick? Share your thoughts in the comments section above!
Live Strong and Healthy,
Conor Kelly
EVOLUTION FITNESS – PERSONAL TRAINERS TORONTO
P.S. One of the ways to have a great immune system is to keep yourself in great shape! Call us at (416) 220-7883 or click here to request a complimentary trial of our 4-Week Transformation Boot Camp!
THE best way to get in shape – FAST!
