Don’t Let the Flu Get You Down!
by Dr. Fichter
It is that time of year, when many of us begin to have the winter blues and unfortunately sometimes winter colds and flu.
When going to the health food store, the natural alternatives can be overwhelming. I would like to help shed some light on a few supplements that may be helpful for you and your family in restoring balance to the body and fighting the unpleasant symptoms of the flu and cold season. Two Powerful supplements to consider would be Zinc and Echinacea.
Zinc– Taking zinc, either as a syrup or lozenge, through the first few days of a cold may shorten the misery of an upper respiratory infection. A recent research review of 15 studies also concluded that it is found to cut the number of sick days kids had in the school year. Zinc is believed to help fight colds by interfering with the viruses ability to reproduce in about 80% of all colds. Experts, stress that more research is needed before the most effective kind of zinc can be determined, and they caution not to have doses above 35 milligrams per day. A great product I recommend is Garden of Life Raw Zinc which consists of 30 mg and is a whole food supplement.
Echinacea– Echinacea is a popular herb and can be used to support both short-term immune challenges. Echinacea root is shown to boost the white cell count which assists in fighting against viruses and free radicals. Alkylamides, a component found in Echinacea is reported to stimulate healthy immune responses. It is also the substance that causes the tingling sensation in your mouth when taking a liquid form. It is important to purchase a top quality form of Echinacea and the species used is very important. I recommend Echinacea angustifolia and Echinacea purpurea roots because they are considered to be the most valuable and effective species. In our office, we have Mediherb Echinacea Premium for purchase and it is available in both tablets and liquid. Please schedule a nutritional consultation with any further questions.
Boost the Immune System with Acupuncture
by Laura Camus, EAMP
Acupuncture is most commonly known as a treatment for pain management, but did you know that acupuncture can also boost the immune system? There are many acupuncture points on the body designed to keep you healthy and boost the body’s natural defenses. Acupuncture can also help improve circulation, metabolism and the digestive system all of which contribute to a healthy immune system. Whether you have the common cold, a stuffy nose, cough or sore throat acupuncture can help. Try Laura’s home remedy on page 2 which can help relieve sinus congestion and a sore throat.
What are your Health Goals for 2013?
To work out every day, never eat another Twinkie? Whatever your goals may be, they need to be realistic and obtainable otherwise we set ourselves up to fail.
I recommend eliminating the words never, every, and always from your vocabulary when developing a health plan. We are going to have many good days and some bad days. THAT IS OK, YOU’RE HUMAN! DON’T FORGET THAT!
SIMPLE TIPS:
1) START A FOOD JOURNAL– This will help keep you on track and help you see where you are doing well and where you can improve.
2) GET MOVING– Exercise at least 10 minutes a day. We all can find 10 minutes to exercise if we really want to. A great place to find some 10 minute exercise routines for all fitness levels can be found on youtube.com.
3) EAT 4-5 SMALL MEALS EACH DAY– Include a variety of fruits and vegetables both raw and cooked. This will help provide a variety of important nutrients to sustain a healthier body.
4) DRINK WATER! – This does not include TEA, COFFEE, JUICE OR MILK. In addition to those beverages you need on average 6-8 glasses of water a day. We need water to live and our body relies on it to function. Dehydration of the body is contributing to many health concerns including joint pain, disc problems, skin issues, and constipation.
Celebrate the NEW YEAR by developing a new positive habit and stick with it for 45 days and then it will become part of your lifestyle.