We talk a lot about healthy food choices, but what about healthy liquids? We have suggestions for some immune system-boosting beverages to sip this season. From packing a probiotic punch to sore-throat soothers – we’ve got you covered!

Tea

Teas are great for hydration or to help tend to cold symptoms like a sore throat. Many teas have  antioxidant properties, which can help support your immune system. Antioxidant properties are found in both green and black teas, but green tea is also a good source of EGCG and L-theanine, which provide powerful antioxidant effects.

Sip on whatever tea your heart desires, but our recommendation when fighting a sore throat is chamomile. Its properties can sooth and lubricate the throat providing some much needed relief!

Kefir

Kefir is fermented milk made from kefir grains and raw milk or water; it has the taste and consistency of a drinkable yogurt – healthy and yummy!  It’s full of healthy nutrients your body will love, like protein, calcium and magnesium. Plus, even though it’s dairy, it’s super low in lactose compared with regular milk (and can be made entirely lactose-free).

And guess what? It’s easy to DIY!

You need:

  • 2 tbsp Kefir grain
  • 2 cups of milk (or coconut milk for a lactose-free version)

How to: Put your kefir grain in a jar, pour in your milk, cover with a cheese cloth, and let it ferment for 24 hours! Next, strain your mixture and put your DIY kefir in the fridge.

Smoothies

Life can be busy and it’s hard to get enough fruits and vegetables into your diet. Smoothies are a great way to up your intake. No matter what your favourite smoothies blend includes, ingesting fruits and veggies contributes to general health. Plus, smoothies packs a probiotic punch when you add yogurt! Probiotics are live microorganisms that are beneficial for gastrointestinal health.  Consider smoothies your chance to jam-pack the nutrients you need into one delicious drink!

Another regular component of smoothies are ingredients packed with vitamin C, whether it’s an orange-juice base or frozen berries – taking in more vitamins is great for your immune system! 
While you’re rocking a smoothie in one hand and tea in the other, don’t forget everyone (and your immune system’s) favourite hydration staple: water!