There is a cold wave! Yes, even I am saying that. Normally, I thrive in 60F weather. But when it comes to the 50s, I prefer heated rooms or houses. And that is how much the temperature in Pune has been for the past week or two.

Sick in bed since a whole week, I am forced to contemplate the reasons why one person succumbs to coughs and colds while another has fun? Of course, it all boils down to our body’s natural immunity. Some people have more ‘fighter cells’ that keep allergies and disesase away.

There are a few ways that you can have better immunity naturally. Eating lots of fruits and veggies is of course one of them. I am listing some of my favorite ways to ward off infections and allergies in this cold season – and no, they do Not include taking a flu shot!

 In season fruits

Just eating fruits is not enough. Make sure they are what grows in season. And that they are organic. So in India, it is oranges in winter, and mangoes in summer.

Make sure you wash them well and rid them of all the numerous chemicals they are sprayed with.

Whenever possible, buy organic and locally grown produce.

 Green Smoothies and Fresh juices

A shot of wheatgrass can buy you some good health. Wheat grass juice is easily available and delivered to your doorstep. Mix it with some apple or orange juice and gulp it down, folks. There are even a lot of wheat grass powders available that can be easily reconstituted.

You all know I love green smoothies. You can pack so much nutrition into one. Sadly, I have fallen out of my habit of having a smoothie for breakfast.

 Tonics and Vitamins

Yes, there are a lot of multivitamins and Vitamin C pills. And they do help. But I have an abhorrence for taking pills.

In India, we have a fantastic elixir that has been handed down over generations – the Chyawanprash!

When I was a child, my granny made it a point to force it down our throats. Made with the good stuff like Amla or Indian  Gooseberry, and Giloy, and 40 other ingredients, it is proven to increase the body’s natural defence mechanism. Dabur Chyawanprash is part of our monthly grocery shopping, and has been for years! The best thing is now they have a sugar free version and also other fruit flavors.

Have fussy eaters? Add the Chyawanprash to milkshakes or Lassi and it will easily blend. So you have a unique tangy flavor along with all the health benefits.

These are just some of the ways you can boost your immunity. Take these simple steps to ensure your family remains smiling through the allergy and flu season.

 This is part of ‘A Healthy Child Makes a Happy Home’ on Indiblogger.