Your own strong immune system is your best ally and defense in the face of a flu epidemic. So, we want to give you our best recommendations for maintaining a strong defense, particularly during this season when the flu is more prevalent.
Please note: When asked for just two support products, Congaplex and cod liver oil are our most recommended suggestions, along with diet and lifestyle practices.
Here’s our Top 13 Tips for Flu Support:
1. Sleep
Get plenty of sleep and get to bed early. If you have trouble falling asleep, you may have an overactive nervous system or poor sleep hygiene. Those with an overactive nervous system are often over thinkers and can’t quiet their minds or “shut down” at night. In this situation, the best solutions are to manage stress during the day, support the adrenals and introduce calming herbs and minerals before bed. Read on to learn more…
2. Avoid Sugar and Processed Foods
This includes sodas, fruit juices, pasta, bagels and pastries. Sugar decreases the function of your immune system almost immediately after ingestion. So if you want to keep your immune function strong, avoid high sugar foods and all processed, refined foods. Focus on real food. You know, what your great grandparents would have eaten.
3. Exercise
Daily exercise relieves stress and increases the circulation of the lymphatic system, assisting the body in rapid elimination of toxins, including viruses and bacteria. So move daily. Many ask “what kind of exercise is best?” The one you will do! And as much as possible, do it outdoors where you can enjoy sunshine and fresh air.
4. Manage Stress
Overwhelming stress weakens the body’s ability to fight off the flu and other illness. Don’t let stress and unresolved conflicts become your normal. Eliminate unnecessary stressors. Learn to say “no.” And give yourself margin in each day.
5. Water
Drink at least half your body weight converted to ounces daily. This amount includes bone broth, kombucha, beet kvass and herbal teas. Proper hydration is vital to detoxification, health and strong immunity.
6. Homemade Bone Broth
Enjoy homemade bone broths daily to support overall health (gut, immunity and skeletal wellness). We highly recommend Sally Fallon Morrell’s bone broth recipes found in Nourishing Traditions or check out our recipe. If you want to pick up high quality bone broth sure to rival the best homemade broth, stop by our office for The Flavor Chef chicken or beef bone broth.
7. Muco Coccinum
Muco Coccinum is an exceptional homeopathic preparation containing various strains of the worst flu epidemics of the 20th century. It is specifically formulated to help boost immune function and stimulate the body’s own defenses to combat and prevent flu and potent viruses. Take one tablet under tongue every two weeks. Available through our office.
8. Gammadyn CuAuAg
This oligo-element helps activate the mechanisms of cellular and humoral immunity. Gammadyn CuAuAg is also indicated in conditions such as hypoadrenia, arthritis, chronic rheumatism, skin and collagen disorders such as psoriasis and acne, immune depletion and infectious diseases. Take one tablet under tongue once weekly. Available through our office.
9. Cataplex C or Pure Radiance C
Vitamin C affects several parts of the immune system and plays a role in neutrophil action required for efficient immune system function. Vitamin C is highly concentrated in leukocytes and is consumed rapidly during infection. Reduced levels of vitamin C in leukocytes are associated with reduced immune function. T cell maturation is promoted by vitamin C. Both Cataplex C and Pure Radiance C are derived from real food and provide the whole C complex, not just ascorbic acid. Available in powder or capsules through our office.
10. Congaplex
A nutritional formula that has been around since 1959, Congaplex is our single most recommended supplement for flu and cold support. Congaplex contains nutrients that contribute to the healthy response of the immune and respiratory systems. Take three capsules twice daily to boost immunity. And up to two capsules every waking hour when acute flu or cold is present. Congaplex is available in a children’s chewable form. Children can take one every waking hour. Contact our office to reserve your bottle.
11. Vitamin D & Company
Vitamin D is best taken with vitamin K2 rich foods or supplement to assist in calcium transport. Blue Ice Royal and D-Synergy Max contain all the vitamin D synergists. Available through our office.
12. Immuplex
Immuplex combines vitamins A, B12, C and E, folic acid and minerals, such as zinc, copper, chromium, iron and selenium along with other nutrients key in creating strong immunity in the body. Take one to three tablets twice daily. Available through our office.
13. Lacto-Fermented Foods or Probiotics
This should be a daily part of one’s diet. We suggest homemade yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut and other lacto-fermented foods and beverages. These foods encourage the growth of protective bacteria, safeguarding your body from pathogenic viruses and bacteria. The addition of a high quality probiotic, like HMF Super Powder, CHAMP ProPlus, Ther-Biotic® Complete and Just Thrive, can be very helpful in boosting one’s levels of beneficial flora. Infant formulas are also available. Just ask us to recommend one for your needs.
