Summer is travel time, from getting on a plane, car, or train. Holiday time is good, yet; sometimes we work so hard to plan or work to be able to travel that we get sick while on our trip. Doing a few health ( preventive) checks before and during your trip is a good idea.
Below are some of my favourite steps I take before, during, and after travel. Taking some supportive herbs and strengthening the digestive system can be super helpful in preventing the awful thought of being sick on holiday.
Generally, if I foresee stressful events approaching – travelling, going back to school after a holiday, or a holiday in general – I begin to re-evaluate what my family is doing and taking. This is essential because despite travel being a fun event, it can be a lot to execute and more nutrients the body needs. Below are some of my top 4 supplements for staying healthy:
This is why:
Sources: Olive oil, coconut oil, avocados, nuts, and seeds, chia seeds, cold water fish, like salmon.
This is why: Known as the friendly bacteria in the gut, they aid in keeping the digestive system strong and healthy. Approximately 70% of the immune system is in the digestive system, so you get lots of support by taking probiotics.
Source: Most probiotics need to be refrigerated, although Biocidin ProFlora and Nordic Naturals Probiotic don’t need to be, which is ideal for travel.
This is why: This herbal powder has many supportive herbs in its’ formula. I like this because it helps keep our immune system strong during high stress or the cold and flu season. The fact that it is a powder is a bonus because you can easily add it to a smoothie or mix it with yogurt or applesauce.
This is why: This fabulous formula includes immune-supporting mushrooms, including Reishi, Cordyceps, Turkey Tail, Shiitake, and Chaga, which help your body build its immune defenses so you can stay healthy and thrive all year long.
You can shop for supplements here.
It’s Wise Woman Herbal or Biocidin Throat Spray. Their 2oz bottle that can be brought on a plane and a few sprays to the back of the mouth during the flight will keep your immune system strong.
I also get herbal tea bags for plane rides. Kids can pick out their favourite flavours ( a Raspberry Zinger and Tazo Sweet orange are favourites) and will the extra attention they will receive when asking for warm water. Keeping hydrated in the summer and with travel is essential in keeping mucous membranes moist and avoiding heat stroke and exhaustion.
Magic socks: Always travel with cotton and wool socks. You can learn more about how to do magic socks here. I have many people completely hooked on them!
Vitamin C: Vitamin c is best taken in divided doses. Take 500 mg ( less for kids) 3 to 4 times daily.
Immune tincture: Most health food stores have an immune tincture or capsules. Take as directed. However, a few of my favourite brands are GAIA and Wise Woman Herbal: I like to travel with their Throat Spray ( see above). Both have tinctures and teas, and Wise Women Herbal has capsules and a fabulous children’s glycerite tincture. Let me know if you need help ordering.
The key to ensuring that you stay healthy after a cold is to take a few supplements for 2 to 3 days after you feel better.
Wash those hands: This one is easy to forget ( or the kids may need some reminding!). It’s important to remember that most acute illnesses are due to poor hygiene, and the easiest way to avoid this is to wash your hands with soap and warm water.
Keep hydrated: During travel, it is easy to become dehydrated. Make sure the family is staying hydrated before and during a trip. Keep a water bottle filled with water. If water doesn’t sound exciting, try putting slices of oranges and lemons to add some zest and flavour or perhaps making a pitcher of iced herbal tea.
Sunscreen: Bring it, wear it, and reapply it. Getting burned on holiday is not fun.
xx
dr. heather
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