It’s a new year, and rather than dread facing it with a checklist of changes and resolutions, there are a couple of things you can do without a lot of stress-driven determination.
This month, our focus is on digestion and protecting and enhancing our immune systems. We’re resetting our bodies to avoid the typical seasonal flus, colds, and other illnesses that can potentially shut us down in the winter. And, of course, nurturing yourself from the inside out is a wise practice no matter what’s lurking out there.
After a season of excess, we’re lightening the load and focusing on eating more plant foods as a great start to improving and strengthening immunity. They won’t cure an illness, but by including these foods into your daily diet, you’ll be sending a clear message to those flu-fighting immune cells to arm themselves for battle.
If eating an entirely plant-based diet appears to be daunting, start by filling your plate two thirds with vegetables, whole grains, and nuts. The remaining third should be tofu, tempeh, or beans. The trick lies in making sure you get adequate protein and vitamins in every meal.
During these times of unknown viral interlopers circulating with the old familiar bad guys, like cold and flu, protecting our immune health is that much more important. Goodbye to 2020; say Hello to turning over a new leaf, literally.
Nuts About Seed and Citrus Bread
Irene McGuinness is a writer, recipe developer, food stylist for numerous magazines and corporations, and alumna of the Writer’s Studio at Simon Fraser University
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