5 ways we're keeping Healthy this Season

Okay, it has been 3 months since my last Five Favorites. The shame! I really do enjoy these little weekly lists of favorites for what we have going on in our lives, whether it be a little something I'm enjoying, clothes, foods and recipes, chit chat from the boys, and whatever else. It's fun! 

So, here I am, back after my little favorita-break to share how we have armed ourselves this winter season. Fun, I know!

But, you have to understand where I'm coming from. The last couple winter seasons have been rough. I mean, ROUGH! We've caught the flu (both rounds!), a stomach bug from h-e-double-hockey-sticks, random viruses, and the most recent bit of awfulness was Hand--Foot-Mouth. You can imagine after all this yuck how this mama was not going to mess around this season. Viruses, bacteria, ick, I have armed myself and am praying that it is enough! More than enough to get us through a year of no more terribleness.

1.

Elderberry

First up, Elderberry. I've been giving this to the boys the past year or so. I forget when I first heard about it but once I did I went ahead with it and kept myself well-stocked. The first year or so, I was using one that was a little sweetened for kiddos. But, recently I came across a concentrate that I am sold on. The price was great and I feel it packs a better punch.

Elderberries contain the majority of the daily value in vitamin C, and high amounts of vitamin A, potassium, iron, vitamin B6, fiber, and betacarotene. Sold! Read more here about this awesome berry and how wonderful it can be for you. We are fans.

2.

Probiotics

A friend of mine did lots of research on cold verses dry probiotics and it's potency. I thanked her for checking into that and followed suit on the refrigerated goodness. Especially since we've had tough cases of thrush early on in both of the boys' lives.

The one we buy now is great! I love how I can just mix it in with the boys' drinks on the daily and that not only does it include the probiotic awesomeness but it also has RAW fruits and veggies. Winning! Healthy digestive system, healthy immune system. Happy mama.

3.

Briar Rose

This is a new one for us. I read up on it and it's an immune booster great for kids and adults during the winter season to boost immune systems. I'm giving it to the boys 1-2 times a week in their juice (I know, so sneaky.). Yay! 

Read more about it here from another crunchy mama trying to keep her family healthy!

4.

Lithy Tree

This gem is for coughs and bronchitis. I haven't used this as often, but I did stock up on the chance that either of the boys catch a coughy-cold.

This site has a tad more info. 

Hmm...I wonder if this would help a certain someone not snore as thunderously?... May need to start sneaking it in Daddy's juice too.

5.

Bone Broth

Yup. I went here. For the first time and it's been awesome and much easier to implement than I anticipated. 

I crock-potted bones from two roasted chickens. Added raw garlic, onion, carrots, and celery - skin and all. Filled with water, added a few spices for fun, and let it sit for 12+ hours. Drained and froze. Yay!

It's been so easy to add to our meals! Throw in a couple ice cubes to cook frozen veggies for a meal. Throw in cubes in the water I'm cooking pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes. Soups. Or even just as a cup of tea. This little tidbit of health doesn't seem like an effort at all. Which is awe-some!

~ ~ ~

Bonus: I know in the photo Apple Cider Vinegar is pictured. So, as a BONUS I found that this helps ward off the stomach bug. This is major for families of littles. Whether it be daily intake prior to keep your gut an unfriendly place for the stomach bug or if you start taking it immediately after being exposed. This stuff apparently is gold and has other health benefits too. Win-Win-Win!

There you have it, friends and family. This is how we are boosting our immune systems this season.

What have y'all been doing to keep healthy this winter season?

Linking-up with the loveliest of lovelies, Jenna, for Five Favorites.