We’re entering the thick of the holiday season and, if you’re like many of the Lifeway team, you’re traveling quite a bit. Taking trips to see family and friends, sharing delicious meals and making new memories is what the holidays are all about, after all. But with the cold weather, rich food and new germs come a greater chance of being sick. Luckily, kefir can help!
Why We Get Sick
First things first: there’s no one reason people get sick when traveling – there are a variety of different things to consider, each of which affects individuals differently. In general, when you travel, your body is exposed to a range of new germs, bacteria and environments, all which affect your immune system and put you at risk for falling ill.
In our daily life, your body is accustomed to your environment – to the germs, the weather, the food and the people you engage with every day. When that changes, you body can get thrown out of balance, and when your body is out of balance is when it becomes susceptible to illness. Add in a few too many holiday treats and too few hours of sleep and you’re setting yourself up for a cold at the very least.
Kefir to the Rescue
If you haven’t figured it out yet, our sure fire method of avoiding seasonal colds and staying healthy during the holidays is drinking kefir, of course. To us, a daily glass or two of kefir is the best way to stay healthy. The live and active probiotic cultures help keep our immune systems in tip top shape, especially during the holidays.
Even more, kefir helps to prevent nausea and diarrhea, which often accompany colds. The probiotics in kefir even contain anti-fungal and antibacterial properties that help prevent food poisoning. We pour our kefir over cereal, blend it in smoothies, make delicious dips and dressings. We even stir it into our favorite soups (just make sure you add it at the end just before serving).
Don’t let poor health keep you on the sidelines this season. Be sure to stay hydrated, get plenty of rest, wash your hands and drink your kefir. It’s worth it, we promise!