CBS Houston | Great Day | Spring Medicine Cabinet

Staying healthy this spring means being prepared. Whether you are working, going to school or traveling you may encounter allergies, sleep disturbances, fatigue or digestive distress. While many people turn to over-the-counter drugs, growing concerns about the safety of many of these products has fuelled interest in the use of natural remedies. Here are some suggestions for building a spring medicine cabinet with natural, drug-free remedies:

For allergies:

Wear hats and sunglasses while outdoors to keep pollen away. Try showering at night instead of the morning so you aren’t dragging pollen in bed with you. For relief of red burning allergy eyes look for eye drops that have natural active ingredients rather than harsh chemicals. Try a neti pot to clear congestion and flush pollen out of your sinuses.

To get a better night sleep:

Try a magnesium rich drink before bed to promote relaxation. Melatonin is helpful when traveling to different time zones. To improve airflow while sleeping and reduce snoring try a nasal dilator. This can also help those with congestion due to allergies. Turn off all electronics one hour before bed. Those little blue lights are stimulating and distracting.

To boost your energy:

Turn to foods that can perk you up and give you sustained energy rather than caffeine and sugar drinks, which only provide a temporary boost. Choose slow release carbs, antioxidant rich foods and healthy fats to keep energy levels and brain power optimized. Examples include avocado, eggs, nuts, seeds, berries and green tea. Look for a supplement that contains B-vitamins, chromium and the adaptogens ashwagandha (KSM-66) and cordyceps. These ingredients work together to help boost energy and performance, combat stress and support and balance hormones.

To improve digestion:

A sluggish digestive system can contribute to fatigue, bloating, headaches and skin problems. Add more soluble fiber and prebiotic foods to your diet to improve regularity and support your internal microflora. Add chia seeds to your oatmeal, try kombucha (fermented tea) and if you need to boost your fiber look for a clear mixing soluble fiber supplement.

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