Why People Actually Get Sick in Autumn (Hint: it has to do with Minerals)
Recently, I went to a benefit dinner and auction to support the people of Guatemala, some of the most malnourished people in the world. I learned the main reason they are so malnourished is that their primary food source is corn, and there is no zinc in corn, so the people lack this mineral needed to fight disease. This story struck me deeper, as I have researched minerals to find what benefits my clients need, and zinc in particular is one that is widely deficient here as well. Zinc also has far reaching effects and deficiencies can cause food cravings and weight gain. On a positive note, when we have sufficient amounts of zinc, it balances the blood sugar as well as it balances hormones in women.
If you have taken a gut healing class of mine, I address the role that toxins play in disrupting the gut microbiome and ultimately, our immune system. And the toxins that we are exposed to are everywhere: our food, the air and water. That doesn’t mean to not care or give up. In fact, it’s more important than ever to be vigilant to get as little exposure to toxins to keep ourselves well. Minerals have the ability to bind to other minerals, as well as they use the same binding sites as heavy metals. When there are enough minerals in the body working synergistically together, the heavy metals don’t stand as large of a chance of binding on to those same sites.
What does this have to do with getting sick in the autumn? In Chinese Medicine, there is an element that governs every season. The season of autumn’s element is metal. Minerals are of the metal element, and are essential for our physical structure, including our ability to communicate. The organs of the lungs and colon rule this season as well. This is why the lungs (and throat) are so often affected during this season, and why we can be more susceptible to colds and illness or have problems with talking, especially for teachers and public speakers. The minerals are needed for our bone structure, so the spinal column, and neck are affected more too. Neck pain and headaches are often more common in this season, if the body isn’t moving properly. Along our spinal column lies our amazing lymphatic system, which must be moved in order for our body to move toxins out. I highly recommend a vigorous walk, or rebounding (jumping on a trampoline) as part of your regimen to stay well and move your lymph. Also, gentle yoga classes are excellent for moving the spine. At home, do cat cow regularly.
The last thing that minerals and autumn have to do with getting sick is sugar. Yes, sugar. That word that can carry so much guilt and shame for many of us. We all know it’s not good for us, but what I want to make clear is that when we eat sugar, it also disrupts our bodies ability to keep the minerals that we have. Sugar also has no nutrient value, and most of it is from GMO sugar beets. GMO’s are proven to increase the risk of cancer, allergies, infertility and aging. Sugar is not our friend, and we all need to learn and share what we can do to minimize it and get away from our addiction to it. I teach how to break free from sugar addiction in my nutrition coaching. I can tell you that you do have willpower, and while I know it’s been discouraging, there are tools I have learned that can help you recover.
Sadly, the rise in using sugar, along with not addressing toxins has caused the following statistics:
1 in 4 will get Alzheimer's by age 60 (1 in 2 by 85)
1 in 7 between ages 18 and 39 already complain of memory problems
1 in 6 adults are on a psychiatric drug
Average attention span 20 years ago was 12 seconds; today roughly ½ of that
1 in 5 people suffer from neurological disorders
The good news is there are healthy alternatives to sugar (in moderation): honey, real maple syrup, molasses, stevia, coconut sugar, date sugar, and lucuma. Also, in Chinese Medicine the flavor of sour counteracts sweet. If you have a sugar craving, try having some lemon water or a sour food to see if that satiates you.
I can be your guide in helping you determine what you may be lacking and quality formulations for supplements, as well as providing the coaching and bodywork to maintain or gain your gut healing and your immunity.
Here’s to a well and vibrat you!
Namaste,
Tanya