As we roll into shorter days in the winter months, it is a good time to consider what you can add to your overall wellness regime, to help you stay robust and resilient.

Many of us are looking for the next new thing that can help support wellbeing. However, one of the best things around is something that has been a part of traditional practice for tens of thousands of years, if research is anything to go by. 

Garlic is a botanical vegetable that is most commonly used as an herb or spice in many cultures and has some health benefits. These are due to the bioactive constituents such as organosulfur compounds which have been well studied for their antioxidant properties. Of interest now, though, is the ability of garlic to support healthy immune system function. 

Garlic has been well studied in scientific literature as it contains many compounds that have a beneficial effect on pathways in the body that help support immune system function. A randomised controlled study showed that aged garlic extract reduced the amount of time spent off work or school by 61%! 

In addition to the direct potential immune-related benefits, garlic has the potential to indirectly support your immune defence by supporting metabolic health markers, as there is cross-talk between the two pathways. Scientific research also suggests that garlic could be a complementary alternative to help support cardiovascular system health. 

Other compounds that help support metabolic health and subsequent immune health include chromium. 
It can be found in protein-rich foods such as red meats, poultry, eggs, seafood, beans, peas, lentils, nuts, seeds, and soy products. 

It has long been recommended by naturopaths and nutritionists as a helpful tool to support healthy blood sugar balance when taken after a meal. In the body, chromium plays a beneficial role in supporting the insulin response. 

Thiamine, or vitamin B1, also plays a role in glucose management. This essential B vitamin supports healthy nerve, muscle and cell function, therefore ensuring an adequate intake is key to overall cardiovascular health support.

Unique to Nutra-Life, Kyolic Immunity and Cardiovascular Formula can not only support the body’s natural immune defences, it has been scientifically researched to support cardiovascular health and healthy blood pressure. Take it daily to support your inner defence.