Top 10 Immunity Boosting Foods with Laguna Elixirs
The picturesque coast of Laguna Beach has long been a backdrop for those looking to live a healthy lifestyle. Beginning with the hippie movement of the 1970’s, Laguna continues to be the heartbeat for health in Orange County. Fast forward 40 years to the opening of Laguna Elixirs, and this ideology continues on for another generation of health-minded Laguna Beach residents.
At the core of Laguna Elixirs is an organic plant-based diet rich in fermented and raw foods. Founder Dana Crawley, a vegetarian for over 30 years and a vegan for over 10, attests to the diet’s efficacy to enhance “clarity, energy, and health.” After seeing firsthand the lack of proactive practices in the healthcare industry, Crawley trained in nutrition at the Ann Wigmore Natural Health Institute and Diet For Living School (where both emphasized the power of raw, plant-based nutrition) and opened Laguna Elixirs in 2014.
Working with Fortune 500 companies to design employee healthcare benefit plans in the early 2000’s, Crawley noticed a disconnect. Money spent on healthcare “skyrocketed, while the overall population became more prone to illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, cancers, autoimmune disease, and obesity,” she remembers. Insurance companies began to provide more benefits at a higher cost but did not implement any preventative measures.
Although greater awareness around health exists today, the mainstream focus continues to be on expensive drugs and vaccines rather than healthy diet and lifestyle choices that can address the root cause and prevent illness in the first place.
This learned knowledge has led to a boom in the health and wellness industry that shows no signs of slowing down. It’s a space that truly has the power to spread wisdom on conservation, sustainability, and wellness that can make lasting and meaningful changes. Indeed, a silver lining of COVID-19 could be that this healthier way of life will be embraced by a wider audience, and smaller businesses at the forefront -- like Laguna Elixirs -- will continue to provide health-conscious products to consumers on a more universal level.
Always a steward of an active and healthy lifestyle, from coaching high school track to working as a holistic cancer coach and chef, Crawley’s mindset to give back to her community and share her knowledge is an admirable quality needed now more than ever. “How our bodies fight to protect us is paramount,” she says, explaining that one big step to ensure optimal performance of the immune response is something everyone can try to incorporate into their daily routine with a diet full of organic, living, enzyme-rich, plant-based foods.
Below are the top 10 foods recommended for boosting the immune system:
FERMENTED FOODS
At the top of the list and most instrumental for optimal gut health due to their high doses of probiotics are fermented foods -- from coconut yogurt to kombucha, there’s something for everyone.
Turmeric
Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and shown to decrease blood sugar, Laguna Elixirs’ Raw Organic Turmeric Root Tonic is seeing a surge in popularity at this time for its immune-boosting benefits.
Ginger
Antibacterial, antiviral, and potent, ginger is great either juiced or infused in hot water to make a powerhouse tea.
Dark leafy greens
High in vitamin K, dark leafy greens are important in the absorption of vitamins A and D to strengthen bones and protect against osteoporosis. Spinach, kale, and/or chard are delicious options to include in soups, salads, and green juices.
Onions
A good source of vitamin C, the regular consumption of onions are effective in the prevention of colorectal cancer. Get your daily dose in Laguna Elixirs’ Fermented Raw Spicy Curtido.
Garlic
Good for gut health, garlic serves as an immunity booster, heart health booster, and prebiotic.
Mushrooms
Immune-boosting and a good source of vitamin D, mushrooms (especially Chaga) also provide antioxidant support.
Berries
Packed with antioxidants, high in fiber, and anti-inflammatory, berries like blueberries, strawberries, and cranberries can be included in smoothies or as a delicious snack on their own.
Nuts and seeds
High in healthy fats, nuts and seeds reduce blood clotting and improve cholesterol. Additionally, almond milk is a healthy and nutritious alternative to conventional cow’s milk.
Green tea
High in GABA and L-Theanine, green tea contains powerful nutrients to combat stress and anxiety.
Laguna Elixirs is currently offering free contactless delivery of its products. For updates and more immune-boosting tips, visit them on Instagram at @lagunaelixirs.