This month's feature article:

This cold and flu season, boost your immune system naturally

 There are two sides to every story, and disease is no exception. We tend to blame it all on viruses and bacteria, and to combat them we’ve created an ever-increasing arsenal of weapons. However, studies are now showing that simple soap and water hand washing is very effective, and overuse of antibacterial products may be helping to create super bugs. It’s time to look at the other side of the story - our own susceptibility to those germs.  We all have busy lives, and parents of young children especially so. When we find ourselves stressed, not eating the right foods and getting too little sleep, we need to take some steps to help boost the immune system and prevent illness. This week we look at prevention, and Part II will look at natural remedies for cold and flu bugs.

How homeopathy can help: If you are having recurring illnesses because your immune system has gotten run down, I would recommend professional homeopathic treatment to look at your specific case and develop a regimen that is unique for your situation. This treatment will also resolve existing or chronic conditions.

Prevention Basics:

Wash hands thoroughly (2 minutes is recommended) and often with soap and water. 

Get more rest! The average Canadian does not get enough sleep. Nap more and skip that TV show. If you have insomnia, professional homeopathy can help.

 Remember to Breathe- it sounds simple but many of us ‘shallow breathe’ much of the time. Yoga is an excellent source of immune-restoration: stretching, circulation and breathing help to ‘unblock’ our energy and let it flow freely (disease tends to follow blocked energy).

 Stress can suppress your immune system, so remember to look after your emotional health.

Eat as many whole, unrefined foods as possible to nourish your body. Eat slowly. Eat lots of fresh organic fruits and vegetables. The best immune boosting foods are those high in carotenes, such as carrots, beets, sweet potatoes and dark leafy greens. I recommend whole foods instead of pills and supplements. Unrefined foods are in a natural form that is much more nourishing.

 Avoid overuse of drugs and foods that suppress your immune system, such as refined sugar, coffee, and alcohol.

Garlic has been used for thousands of years and has proven antibacterial and anti-infection properties. Cooked or raw, include it in your healthy meal planning.

Selenium, vitamin C and B6 stimulate immune activity- again try to get these in your foods whenever possible. Garlic and mushrooms are good sources of selenium.

 Exercise your immune system – allow yourself to fight off infection naturally whenever possible. Take the day off work. This strengthens your immune system and helps prevent prolonged or recurrent illnesses.

Herbal tinctures such as Echinacea, Astragalus, Ginseng, Usnea and Poke root can be powerful immune boosters, but should be used with professional advice.

 Shitake mushrooms contain immune stimulating compounds, such as lentinan, which is used in Japanese medicine to treat chronic fatigue syndrome. They are delicious cooked with garlic and in soups

Note: This information is provided for interest only and is not intended as medical advice. See your family doctor if you are concerned about recurring illness or your immune system

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