Throat Health for Immunity

 

A scarf has many health benefits and an ounce of prevention equals a pound of cure.

Being raised in a predominantly Bohemian and German family, "Es Zieht!" was a common exclamation uttered by grandparents and great-grandma. Suddenly I'd feel the back of my shirt collar flipped up, and a scarf or shawl being drapped over my shoulders with the words, "Be well, Liebchen." whispered as a kiss on top of my head.

German folklore's phobia of drafts aside, the neck is a vulnerable area in colder, windy times. And a scarf is a first defense against that chill. Even in the summer or in hot climates, a scarf is beneficial as you move from outdoor heat into cold air-conditioned buildings.

The change of seasons often leads to colds, aches, and pains in the neck, shoulders, and back. These conditions can wreak havoc on your immune system. Instead of looking for the latest over-the-counter remedy, consider a simple scarf.

A large scarf can provide warmth and protection for your neck and chest area. It can also be used to cover your nose and mouth which not only provides warmed air for your lungs, it's a quick face covering for honoring COVID prevention protocols.

A scarf can save you from sore throats and vocal strain by keeping muscles and blood vessels in that area warm. It can make a difference in your voice quality as well - somthing to keep in mind as people are more often regurlarly utilizing phones and video chats for work and personal communication. Wearing a scarf dilates blood vessels of the muscles surrounding the neck and shoulders. It increases the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles, alleviating aches and pains in those areas.

Approximately 70% or your total body heat escapes through your head and upper body. Your neck becomes similar to a radiator, allowing your body heat to escape through the thin skin of your throat.

In a study by Yale researchers, cells taken from airways were exposed to the common cold virus (rhinovirus), at either the core body temperature of 98.6, or the lower temperature of 91.4 degrees Fahrenheit. They found that the higher temperature resulted in greater production of interferon, which contols the immune response to viral infections, as well as greater stimulation of other compounds important for building immune response. As a result of the relatively impaired immune response at lower temperatures, the virus was more able to replicate.

Other research supports this idea. One study shows that we have reduced ability to clear particles such as cold-causing viruses form the nasal passages and trachea upon cold exposure. Another study shows that when exposed to cold, the activity of our white blood cells (which fight infections) decreases.

Traditional Chinese Medicine warns of wind and cold exposure. It advises that when outside, we cover the back of our neck as this area is particularly susceptible to wind and cold. The heat sensors in the base of the brain (upper neck) help to regulate temperature by sending signals to conserve heat when it's too cold. As a result, blood vessels as the surface of the body contract, including vessels in the respiratiory passages. Thus, there are fewer virus and bactria fighting while blood cells aound, making infection more likely, should any be around.

Yes, there is evidence that cold exposure can make us more susceptible to catching a cold. Avoiding cold exposure is wise practice (as is mindful physical distancing) particularly when we are more likely to catch a cold - i.e. when we are subject to increased stress, insufficient sleep, poor diet, or in the midst of a global pandemic. 

Be proactive about your health. Wear a scarf.

To support your throat health, boost your immunce system, or ease the discomfort if mild soreness sets in, try making a tea from ingredients that you most likely already have in your kitchen; lemon, ginger (root or ground), and honey.

Here's how my Nana made it:

To 4 cups boiling water add, 1 sliced and seeded lemon, 1 piece of ginger root (2-3in/5-7cm) also sliced

Steep 4 minutes

Strain 

Add 2 teaspoons honey, stir and sip with enjoyment

I am not a medical doctor. The information and suggestions presented should not be substituted for professional health care.