Against my best efforts I got sick last week. I ran myself down working too much and this weather didn't help nurture my already weakened immune system. As we push through the end of this winter cold season there are plenty of healthy remedies you can use. The ones I am sharing with you have helped me heal faster and stronger. Here are my top ten tips:-

1. Rest, rest and more rest. Your body heals itself while you sleep so get some extra zzz's and let your body do some amazing work for you.

2. Hydration is always important and while you're sick it is key to healing. Keep up your fluid intake, lots of water, warm broths and teas. A friend of mine dropped off some juices for me this past week and this was a great way for me to hydrate and get nutrients in my body.

3. Vegetables and fruits are vital to a healthy immune system. They are packed with nutrition and encourage cell regeneration which helps fight your illness. When you are sick eating can be unappealing but you need to keep your system running. Eat a few servings of whatever sounds the most appealing to you.

4. Grain Protein is a great way to get nutrients and is easy for your body to digest. I ate a quinoa salad with kale, dried cranberries, olive oil, salt and pepper that filled me up and was packed with goodness that my body needed.

5. Probiotics are an absolute must when you are sick. Probiotics are good bacteria that already live inside your gut, when you become sick they work overtime to help you heal meaning they need a little back up. The easiest way to get more in your system is from yogurt. I was recently introduced to an amazing brand called White Moustache. They are a small batch yogurt distributor and their product is packed with protein, probiotics and a little something sweet at the bottom. Get your hands on your favorite brand and enjoy the healthful benefits.

6. Avoid too much sugar, it naturally weakens your immunity so while your sick you want to make sure you aren't indulging in over sweetened things. Of course, I ate ice cream one night because I needed a little something sweet. I keep my diet very clean while I am sick so I tend to only use honey as a sweetener which brings me to my next tip....

7. Honey is a little golden miracle. Honey is antimicrobial and antifungal which helps heal you from the inside out. Honey is also amazing for a sore throat and to help soothe an aggravated cough. Add a few teaspoons to your tea or take one teaspoon on it's own.

8. Elderberry Syrup is a purple liquid of health. My mother introduced me to this miracle syrup this past illness and it helped me more than I could have imagined. Elderberry syrup has high levels of A, B, C and helps stimulate the immune system. It also works as aide to help prevent the flu and speed up the healing time. I use the brand Sambucus(the scientific name for the berry) which is from a health food store.

9. My Golden Elixir Tea is something I use in my daily life and was a saving grace for me with all of my body ache. The turmeric in the tea helps with inflammation reducing the pain. Follow this link to get the full recipe; http://www.lexieruse.com/new-blog/2014/1/4/new-year-new-things

10. Apple Cider Vinegar is an amazing natural aide for your health. Gargle with a tablespoon to help with a sore throat or drink a teaspoon in your water to help your nasal congestion. Consuming a tablespoon a day is a great preventative tip for your immune system.

I hope these tips help you heal faster in your time of need. Stay healthy and strong as we push through these last few weeks of winter, I swear Spring is coming.