Southern SOIL
Jovan Sage:
with Food in Mind
J
OVAN SAGE IS A FRIEND AND CONTRIBUTOR TO SOUTHERN SOIL. SHE IS AN HERBALIST AND WELLNESS COACH WITH HER OWN LINE OF
PRODUCTS AVAILABLE THROUGH HER BUSINESS SAGE’S LARDER. FOR A FULL LIST OF PRODUCTS, VISIT WWW.SAGESLARDER.COM
Immunity as a practice:
building up your body’s defense
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by Jovan Sage
Immunity is a daily practice and what you eat
Eating For Immunity
can have a huge impact on your immune system.
When thinking about vitamins, minerals and
That daily practice encompasses: staying connected to our bodies, our spirit, our family and chosen community; staying hydrated, rested and incorporating nutrient-dense, immune boosting ingredients. As I work with clients to help them manage their overall wellness goals these are the things that should rise to the top of your daily practices. Hydration
antioxidants that support the immune system you will want to include: vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc and selenium. The South is well prepared as beans and dark leafy greens are essential to building a healthy body and immune system. Greens are very high in calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, phosphorous, zinc, and vitamins A, C, E, and K. They’re also packed with fiber, folic acid, chlorophyll, and many other micronutrients and phytochemicals. Black beans, black eyed peas,
Water, water everywhere… Drink it. On average,
chickpeas and kidney beans - these are loaded
men should drink about 3.7 liters (15.5 cups) and
with iron, magnesium, potassium, B vitamins, and
women about 2.7 liters (11.5 cups) of water each
soluble fiber.
day. This total is from all beverages and foods consumed in a day. For women, that number
As a firm believer in kitchen table medicine I
should increase when pregnant or breastfeeding.
encourage people to raid their cabinet and fridge
If you get exhausted with plain water you can add
for healing herbs and foods. For example: sage is
fresh mint, berries, lemon wedges or brew a cup of
an antimicrobial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory
herbal tea.
herb that is great for sore throats; thyme is an
