Strengthen Your Defences This Cold & Flu Season

As we transition into fall and the back-to-school rush, our immune systems face new challenges. Seasonal viruses, more time spent indoors, and higher stress levels can leave us vulnerable. That’s why September is the perfect time to focus on your immune resilience.

Fresh Start Testing’s Thema 14 Immune System test uses just a small hair sample to shine a light on hidden imbalances, nutrient needs, and immune stressors—helping you take proactive steps to support your health when it matters most.

Why Immune Balance Matters

Your immune system isn’t just about avoiding a runny nose—it’s your body’s defence network against viruses, bacteria, parasites, and even internal concerns like autoimmunity.

The Thema 14 test provides a bioenergetic analysis of the immune system, assessing elements such as lymphocytes, cytokines, basophils, dendritic cells, neutrophils, and more. It also looks at vitamins, minerals, gut bacteria, herbal supports, and medicinal mushrooms. The test highlights bioenergetic imbalances that may leave your defences under strain—especially during cold and flu season.

Nutrients That Keep Immunity Strong

A well-functioning immune system depends on critical vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids. Thema 14 includes an important analysis of these elements and their impact on immune regulation.

They play a role in:

• Antibody production – helping the body respond to pathogens

• Inflammation control – keeping the immune response balanced

• Energy metabolism – fuelling immune cell activity

• Protective barriers – maintaining skin and mucous membranes 

When imbalances appear, the immune system may be less prepared to respond effectively to seasonal infections. Even small nutrient gaps can weaken your defences during peak cold and flu season.

Gut Health: Your First Line of Defence

Nearly 70% of your immune system lives in your gut. Thema 14 includes an analysis of beneficial intestinal bacteria, which are closely linked to immune performance. The gut microbiota plays a key role in keeping defences strong and balanced.

Functions supported by healthy gut flora include:

• Immune training and regulation – helping the immune system “learn” to defend against real threats while tolerating harmless microbes and food molecules

• Pathogen control – preventing harmful bacteria from taking hold

• IgA production – supporting antibodies that coat and protect the intestinal lining

• Nutrient support – producing B vitamins and other compounds that improve immune activity

When gut bacteria are out of balance, the immune system may overreact or become less effective against infections, leaving defences compromised.

Natural Supports: Honey, Ginger & Herbal Allies

Nature offers powerful allies for seasonal wellness:

• Honey – valued for its antibacterial activity and ability to soothe the respiratory tract, helping counter coughs, sore throats, and seasonal colds.

• Ginger – long used for its immune-supporting and anti-inflammatory properties, while also aiding detoxification and lymphatic cleansing.

• Elderberry & Thyme – both noted for strong antiviral activity; elderberry blocks early stages of influenza infection, while thyme provides antibacterial and antimicrobial support.

• Medicinal Mushrooms (Reishi, Turkey Tail, Lion’s Mane) – contribute to immune modulation, antiviral defence, and in the case of Lion’s Mane, support for gut lining repair and overall resilience.

Thema 14 helps identify natural remedies that are most compatible with your system, making your wellness plan even more personalized.

Lifestyle Foundations for Strong Immunity

Beyond nutrients and remedies, your daily choices shape immune strength. Editorial content included in Thema 14 emphasizes:

• Consistent sleep to rebuild immune cells

• Moderate exercise for circulation and defence support

• Stress management to prevent immune suppression

• Hydration & fresh foods to provide the raw materials for immune activity

Small habits can make the difference between bouncing back quickly or spending weeks recovering.

Available at Honey & Ginger

You can purchase your Fresh Start Test Kit at either Honey & Ginger location. Simply ask staff about the testing options and they’ll assist you with your order. Your kit will include everything you need—an intake form, instructions, and a stamped return envelope for your hair sample.

Understanding Your Test Results and Next Steps

Once your results are ready, you can book a consultation with Barb Brennan at Honey & Ginger. Barb will review your immune system findings with you and provide expert, personalized guidance to strengthen your defences and improve overall resilience this season.

Her support can help you create a realistic, effective plan to restore balance and boost vitality.

To explore available testing options, including Fresh Start’s Thema 14 Immune System, visit: FreshStartTests.com.

✨ Drop by Honey & Ginger to learn more or to place your order in-store. It’s the first step toward YOUR Fresh Start!