Paleo Cold & Flu Remedies
Since I've been following a Paleo diet, I thought catching Cold & Flu were a thing of the past. But, sadly no; I've just got over my first cold in over two years. I recovered far quicker and felt nothing like as bad as I had in my pre-paleo days, but it was frustrating to feel ill all the same.
The winter before I went Paleo, I seemed to catch every virus going around. I permanently had a cold or the flu – and felt terrible. So perhaps I shouldn't complain about feeling a bit run down for a few days, once every two or three years.
Doesn't Paleo prevent you from getting Cold & Flu?
I think Paleo plays a crucial role in building up a good immune system; but sometimes this isn't enough. After a few hectic weeks at work, insufficient sleep, the arrival of Winter (seriously reducing my daily sunshine/ Vitamin D exposure), I suspect my immune system didn't put up the usual fight when confronted with a cold virus. A trip to an extremely cold Canberra was the final battle that my immune system lost.
Paleo Cold Remedies?
I'm really against over the counter medicines, so at the first hint of a sore throat, I immediately researched natural cold cures and remedies.
The most important things are the simplest; lots of sleep and good hydration. I also made a big pot of chicken soup which is not only very nutritious, but it is also warming and soothing for a sore throat.
Vitamin D levels are crucial; I'm usually very sporadic in taking it, so I've been making sure I take Vitamin D3 capsules every day. I don’t usually supplement with Vitamin C, but almost everything I researched on remedies mentioned it, so I started taking it too.
I don’t usually have sweeteners, but I found hot lemon water with raw honey very soothing. I read a lot of people add in cayenne pepper and ginger, but that was a step to far for me. As was raw garlic or gargling with Apple Cider Vinegar.
They say prevention is better than cure…
I've definitely learnt my lesson. I'm going to be far more careful to keep my Vitamin D levels up, especially in Winter (I must book another test to check what my levels are). I'm not going to compromise on sleep – and Canberra, sorry – but I don’t think I’ll be visiting again until Spring.
Have you noticed a decrease (or hopefully absence) in Cold & Flu since you changed your diet? If you've got any Cold & Flu remedies or cures, please pass them on in the comments below, you might just help someone somewhere feel a lot better!
Natural Cold Remedies That Fit the Paleo Lifestyle
When you're following a Paleo diet, you're already reducing the processed foods, grains, and sugars that weaken your immune system. But colds and flus can still sneak in — especially during winter in Australia, when sunshine (and therefore Vitamin D) is harder to come by.
The great news is that Paleo principles make it easier to bounce back. Prioritising whole foods, bone broth, quality sleep, and natural supplements can shorten the duration and intensity of your symptoms. Staying hydrated, avoiding refined sugar, and supporting your immune system with foods like garlic, ginger, and citrus can make a huge difference.
Instead of reaching for over-the-counter medications, many in the Paleo community turn to real food and ancient remedies to heal and recover naturally. From turmeric teas to homemade Paleo chicken soup, there are plenty of nourishing ways to get back on your feet.
If you’ve discovered your own Paleo-friendly ways to fight off a cold, share them in the comments — others in the community will appreciate the tips!
