Older people are more vulnerable to viruses during winter, and it’s winter here in Australia.

What are some ways to help support the immune system of the elderly, to keep them resilient during the cold and flu season?

First, diet, and I recommend ensuring adequate protein. Past 65yo, the digestion of protein becomes less efficient. It is also common for older people, particularly those on a low income, to rely on cheaper carbohydrate foods like bread and white rice, for energy. Protein is important for a healthy immune system, therefore, it is recommended that older people actually increase their protein intake to ensure they are getting and absorbing enough. Protein comes from both animal and plant sources- meat, seafood, eggs, dairy and legumes and wholegrains, nuts and seeds. However it is recommended that we eat both animal and plant sources for optimal health.

Then I recommend adding warming herbs and spices to food to help increase circulation and warm up the digestion. Ginger, both dried and fresh, is a valuable herb/spice that is widely available and can be added to a wide variety of meals and drinks. I often add fresh ginger to my cups of tea during the day, sometimes a pinch of dry ginger instead. Cayenne or any type of chilli can also be valuable to increase warmth in the body. You can get capsules of cayenne which helps the heat bypass the stomach. If you get chilly hands and feet in winter, they can often help warm up the extremities. Eating curries can be helpful. Other warming herbs and spices include rosemary, thyme, cinnamon, cloves and turmeric.

Warm drinks can be very helpful to keep fluids up, to warm the body, and to add in spices like cinnamon or ginger. Chai is a great winter drink.

Keeping Vitamin D levels optimal is important, and while getting adequate sunshine is beneficial for many reasons, including keeping mood boosted in winter, it can be beneficial to take a Vit D supplement through the winter months.

Then there is Vitamin C and zinc. Zinc levels are often low in the elderly, and it is an important mineral for the immune system. Vitamin C is well known as supportive for helping with colds and flu’s, and has been shown to shorten their duration. Blackmores has some good retail Vit C and zinc products. I take one daily.

Then, I would recommend an individualised herbal mix to support the immune system and any constitutional weaknesses. For example, some people have a tendency for a virus to go straight to the lungs, and be difficult to kick. Some end up with chronic lung issues such as asthma, wheezing, bronchitis or other lung conditions throughout winter. This is where individualised herbal medicine comes into its own, as we can choose specific herbs to strengthen organs or systems in the body, such as the immune system, the liver, and the lungs. However, even those with robust health can benefit from traditional herbs that help maintain the body at its peak health and increase longevity.

I love supporting older people to keep up their vitality and resilience with appropriate herbal medicines .

You can book through my website, and also contact me through my website if you have any questions.

www.susandeeley.com.au