Fall-Proof Wellness

With fall weather rolling in rather quickly here at Elon, it’s time to start thinking about protecting ourselves from the dreaded “Elon plague.” We’ve all been there – the classrooms filled with sniffles and sneezes. At The Edge, we’re committed to equipping you with some tips and tricks for battling seasonal challenges and thriving both mentally and physically through the cold weather. 

Elevate Your Immunity Through Nutrition

We’re sure you’ve all heard of the term “superfoods” and their myriad benefits for your hair, skin, body and overall well-being. But have you ever heard of immunity-boosting foods? These are the foods that shield you from all those nasty germs you encounter daily. We’re here to fill you in on some of these powerhouse foods and the roles they play in keeping you at your best.

Load up on antioxidant-rich foods

Infusing your diet with a variety of colorful fruits and veggies is so important for strengthening your immune system. Next time you grab your weekly groceries or stroll through the dining hall, don’t overlook those berries, leafy greens or citrus fruits. Remember, healthy foods don’t have to be boring; they can be vibrant and delicious too!

Consider adding immune-boosting herbs and spices

Ginger, oregano, turmeric and garlic are among the superheroes of immune-boosting ingredients. These herbs and spices are very common to find in meals and are easy to add to any recipe. Their natural properties help support your body’s defenses. So next time your roommate comes down with a cold, you don’t have to worry because you’ll be protected, and your taste buds will be singing you praises. 

Choosing lean proteins

Many lean protein sources are abundant in zinc, a mineral that protects the immune system. If you’re determined to steer clear of the “Elon plague” this semester, consider incorporating lean protein options like poultry, fish and even beans and tofu for vegetarians. 

Now that we’ve given you some of the ingredients that support your immune system, you may be thinking, “How do I incorporate these into my daily meals?” The good news is it’s much simpler than you might imagine. You may only need to make a few minor adjustments to your usual diet. 

Start your day off right

Kick off your morning with a handful of berries and some oatmeal or scrambled eggs with spinach and a sprinkle of turmeric for an added boost. If these don’t suit your taste, try experimenting with different options until you find what satisfies your palate.

Power up your meals

When planning for your next lunch or dinner, consider all the immune-boosting foods we mentioned. Aim to include a variety of colorful vegetables and lean protein. These ingredients can be incorporated through stir fries, salads or soups; the options are endless.

Opt for snacks that are both delicious and immune-supporting. Consider snacking on some carrots with hummus, a handful of almonds or a fruit salad.

Spice it up

Remember all those herbs and spices we talked about? Don’t forget about them; they are essential and easy to incorporate. Plus, who wants bland meals anyway? Experiment with herbs and spices in your cooking. Add ginger and garlic to stir-fries, or even sprinkle some oregano onto your pizza. Get creative!

 To make it even easier for you, here’s a great website with a wide array of immune-boosting recipes. Our personal favorite is the creamy garlic, lemon and spinach salmon. It’s super college-friendly and only takes 20 minutes to make.

Remember, these small changes can significantly impact your overall well-being, and who has time for being sick anyway? So, together, let’s stay healthy and enjoy the fall season. Don’t forget to share your immune-boosting foods and recipes with us @theedgemag on Instagram!