OPTIMAL NUTRITION
Optimal nutrition is very important. Antioxidant nutrients likeSELENIUM andVITAMINS A ,C andE can prevent the virus from replicating and mutating, increasing resistance and accelerating recovery time. For most of us at this latitudeVITAMIN D supplementation is necessary. This hormone (yup, its not really a vitamin) offers many benefits including immune support.FISH OIL andPROBIOTICS also offer a wide array of health benefits beyond the immune system. And those suffering from IRON deficiency are more likely to catch the flu.HERBAL ALLIES
There are many herbs that inhibit flu viruses, decrease the severity of symptoms, and/or reduce the duration of the illness. Here are a few:ALOE VERA ,AMERICAN GINSENG ,GARLIC ,LEMON BALM ,OLIVE LEAF , and medicinal mushrooms likeREISHI . There are a variety ofESSENTIAL OILS that can be diffused into the air or used in a steam inhalation or bath. See our November 2012 newsletter or stop by the store for more information. TryASTRAGALUS to strengthen immunity but go forECHINACEA if you do get sick. Goldenseal has been over harvested, so our nativeOREGON GRAPE , which also contains berberine, is a better alternative. Berries are a tasty way to nourish and protect yourself from the flu.CRANBERRY and especiallyELDERBERRY can prevent viral replication. Elderberry syrups are ideal for children because they taste so good kids will enjoy taking it.Studies show thatUMCKA (Pelargonium sidoides) influences immune response in the upper airway mucosa and interferes with viral replication. It is effective for treating flu, cold, acute sore throat and bronchitis. In Germany, Umcka extract is an approved drug for acute bronchitis. It is even safe for children.
Please dont forget these common sense precautions:WASH YOUR HANDS often, get enoughSLEEP and drink plenty ofWATER . We wish you good health this winter and all year long.
OTHER FLU FIGHTERS:
- CHLORELLA
- DHEA
- EPICOR
- GLUTATHIONE
- GREEN TEA
- N-ACETYL-CYSTEINE
- PROPOLIS
- QUERCETIN
- RESVERATROL
- SPIRULINA
