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8 GUIDELINES FOR PREVENTING THE
FLU
- EAT A HEALTHY DIET BY
ELIMINATING SUGAR
100 grams of sugar decreases the
immune response by 50% for six hours. Avoiding sugar is the single most
important nutritional factor that you can address to avoid the flu. Researchers performed a study in 1938
which revealed that the only laboratory animal that could contract polio by
experimental inoculation was the monkey.
All other laboratory animals were completely resistant to polio
virus, including the rabbit. The
researchers could not infect these rabbits with polio--until they lowered
their blood sugar in a way that also occurs in humans after they eat sugar. The take-home message is avoid sugar like the plague.
You can also bolster the immune
system by increasing the healthy and essential fats consumed such as the
omega-3 oils found in wild salmon, walnuts, and ground flax seeds. Omega 3
oils provide greater resistance to common illnesses such as the flu and colds. Also emphasize the good carbohydrates
found in non-starchy vegetables and quality proteins found in free range,
organic, grass fed animals and wild game.
- REGULAR EXERCISE
Regular exercise improves the
body's ability to fight infections by increasing core body temperature
thereby increasing white blood cell activity. For optimal immune system function, 30
minutes of daily exercise is essential.
Regular exercise dramatically improves sleep quality as well.
- GET ENOUGH REST
During the deepest phases of
sleep, the immune system is strengthened, energy is restored, and growth
hormone is released. Insomnia and
insufficient sleep affect hormone levels and accelerate aging.
The following sleep
recommendations will enhance the immune system function. Aim for at least 7 hours/night (optimal
would be 9). Get to bed as early as
possible--the body, particularly the adrenal glands, do a majority of their
recharging or recovering before midnight.
Go to sleep at the same time every night and wake up at the same
time every morning. Avoid before bed
snacks, especially grains, alcohol, and sugars. Sleep in complete darkness; when light
hits the eyes, it disrupts the circadian rhythm of the pineal gland and
production of
melatonin and serotonin.
- EAT GARLIC REGULARLY
Garlic is antibacterial,
antiviral, and antifungal so it acts like a broad spectrum antibiotic in
the body. Garlic is also a powerful
antioxidant which means it helps to protect against damaging free radicals. Garlic must be fresh to give optimal
health benefits. The active
ingredient is destroyed within one hour of smashing the garlic. 1-2 medium size cloves should be taken
daily; compress prior to consumption to release active ingredient. If you develop a socially offensive odor,
slightly decrease the dose.
- DON'T LET STRESS BECOME
OVERWHELMING
Periods of short-term stress
trigger the immune system to prepare for injury or infection, similar to a
"fight or flight" response.
Long-term stress causes excessive wear on the body and activates a
deterioration of the immune system.
The immune systems of the elderly and those already suffering with
some kind of illness are less capable of coping with stressful situations. The stressors that most negatively
compromise the immune system are the chronic stressors. The longer the duration of stress or
perceived length of the stress, the less the body is able to adapt to the
stressful situation. This kind of
stress leads to serious negative health repercussions including immune
system suppression.
The following are just a few
stress management techniques:
prayer, meditation, deep breathing exercises, journaling, yoga,
emotional freedom technique, exercise, regular massage/bodywork.
- WASH YOUR HANDS
Handwashing
is one habit that can help prevent the flu and other infections,
particularly in young children.
Without proper handwashing, the germs
travel from the hands to the eyes, nose, or mouth. From there, they spread to other people
and surfaces. This chain reaction
paves the course of hand-to-hand contact infectious diseases.
The best handwashing
technique involves these steps: use
warm water, work up a good lather up to the wrists for at least 10-15
seconds, don't forget to get all surfaces including the backs of the hands,
wrists, between the fingers, and the fingernails.
Word of caution--avoid the use
of antibacterial soaps in the general setting as they are not necessary and
may contribute to the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
- HOMEOPATHY
Oscillococcinum
or Flu Solution can be used for prevention, when exposed to the virus, or
when early stage influenza signs and symptoms arise. Consult a naturopathic physician who
utilizes homeopathy and may be able to help you prevent or shorten the course
of the flu.
- DRINK PLENTY OF WATER
Water is the elixir of
life. Water is needed to sustain
adequate blood and lymph flow which are the key transporters in the immune
system.
Yellowstone Naturopathic
Clinic
720 N. 30th St.
Billings, MT 59101
PHONE 406·259·5096/FAX 406·248·5655
ync@180com.net
Dispensary
406·254·9682
dispensary@yncnaturally.com
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