CHANGING SEASONS

BY MARY ANN O’DELL, MS, RDN

AS SCHOOL BEGINS, days start to shorten, and the air begins to cool, this season brings more change than normal. It is possible that outdoor events could be more prevalent in the fall, but school days may be different. Regardless of the setting, there is incredible change expected for fall, in both weather and lifestyles. With this change in season, fall allergies kick into high gear, and the concern for colds, flu, and other viruses also increases. To stay healthy, be proactive to fight congestion and keep immune health strong with these key steps.

Paragon Plus™ Quercetin Aller-Plex™

Fight allergies naturally!* May support the body’s response to inflammation.* Complex of quercetin with bromelain, vitamin C, pantothenic acid, & nettles.

FIGHT ALLERGIES NATURALLY

Fall allergies for some are the worst! Be ready with both herbal and homeopathic formulas that support the body and reduce allergy symptoms. Look for the ingredient quercetin in allergy formulas, which may help reduce allergic and asthmatic reactions to pollens and airborne allergens. It has both antiinflammatory and antihistamine activity in the body. Unlike over-the-counter antihistamine drug formulas, which block the action of histamine once it is released, quercetin can actually

Futurebiotics Immunactive

Clinically proven ingredients for healthy immune function.* With larch arabinogalactan, which has been shown to enhance the activity of immune system cells, including stimulating macrophages.* With maitake, olive leaf, astragalus, and more.

reduce the amount of allergysymptom-causing histamine that is released in the body.

CLEANSE NASAL PASSAGES

Using a neti pot with a saline wash, or natural saline spray, can help cleanse pollens and allergens from the nasal passages. This helps moisturize nasal passages, clear the sinuses, and reduce inflammation and congestion.

CALM CONGESTION AND SORE THROAT

In the fall, the change of seasons can bring both allergies and colds. To keep congestion in check, use aromatic herbs such as oregano to keep the respiratory system clear, and expectorant herbs such as pleurisy for chest and cough. Reduce irritation and support throat and lungs with mucilaginous herbs, like slippery elm and mullein, which help soothe irritated membranes and make coughs more productive.

MIX IN MUSHROOMS

Medicinal mushrooms, such as reishi and maitake, are rich in beta glucans which have the ability to enhance natural killer (NK) cell activity. NK cells are part of the immune system that promote deep immune health, fighting off viral-infected cells. These mushroom extracts can be used on a daily basis.

STOCK UP ON IMMUNE SUPPORT

Don’t wait until you get sick—stock up now on formulas to support and balance your immune system. Key herbs and nutrients include elderberry, larch arabinogalactan, vitamin C, and zinc.

For a smooth seasonal transition, keep some simple formulas on hand, both for adults and kids, to support the body when the weather and the seasons change.

Nature’s Answer Kids Sambucus Chewable

Black elderberry plus vitamin C and zinc.

Provides year-round immunity support.* No artificial colors or flavors. Gluten-, dairy-, and nut-free.

Paragon Plus™ Congestaleve™

Immediate respiratory system support.* With osha, yerba santa, garlic, oil of oregano, & more. Concentrated liquid extract in a convenient capsule form.