Live Well Clinic

In preparation for the school year and cold/flu season, what are the best immune building foods? Nutrition is the foundation of health. Make food your medicine, and medicine your food. Generally foods high in vitamin c and antioxidants are great immune boosters. Some of the top immune boosting foods are: kefir, mushrooms, broccoli, fish, chicken, garlic, tumeric, and other kitchen spices.   The key is to eat a beautifully colorful meal with lots of veggies and lean meats to balance out your diet. Remember, avoiding or minimizing sugary foods (such as cereals, soda, and snacks) is key to maintaining a strong immune system.   Ingesting just 1tsp. of sugar suppresses immune system for the next 3 hours. Here is an example of a healthy and easy meal plan for kids and family: Breakfast: Protein smoothie with handful of frozen berries and kefir. Lunch: An orange. Chopped salmon on salad with red bell peppers and mushrooms. Dinner: Chicken curry with broccoli, pumpkin,...

What are the best non-sugary back to school drinks to keep your kids hydrated? Water is still the best way to go instead of juice or Gatorade.   Help your child swap out sugary drinks for water by giving them a cool bottle to take to school. Check out MySigg.com for environmentally conscious water bottles. Skip the plastic kind and you’ll be doing your part for the environment.   If your children participate in sports, they may need an electrolyte drink to help replenish what they lost during practice or playing in the heat. What are the best electrolyte drinks for very active kids? Gatorade and other purported sports drinks are unhealthy for children. They are filled with high fructose corn syrup, artificial flavoring, and dyes.   If you want all of that in your children, you should give them a candy bar. Instead, you can send your kids with a bottle of home made electrolyte drink or choose from these healthy options: Smart Water by Glaceau Whole ...