Even though I am now OFFICIALLY out on maternity leave, I couldn’t resist writing one last post to everyone about winter immune support! It seems everywhere I turn someone is getting sick – something I am acutely aware of as I am about to give birth and want to be sure that my immune system is STRONG!!
So in the spirit of the season, I’d like to share my top 5 immune support tips for that can be used for anyone.
1. Wash Your Hands. I know it sounds simple, but an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! You may have heard about the proposed rule the FDA released on Monday, stating that manufacturers of “anti-bacterial” soaps have to prove that they are more effective than soap and water in order to continue to sell them. This rule came about because enough evidence has surfaced for the government to recognize the health risks associated with these products. In any case, HOT water and SOAP are your tools here!!
2. Watch your SUGAR. Did you know that having just two 12oz cans of regular soda can cause a 40% reduction in your immune response for the next five hours? Even natural sweeteners, such as honey or agave, can have similar effects. Try using stevia or xylitol as a substitute for your holiday treats.
3. Probiotics The mucosa of your gut is lined with bacteria that form a natural barrier to prevent the illness-causing bacteria from taking root. By making sure your good bacteria is plentiful, it will strengthen your defenses and reduce the chances of getting ill. This study in the American Journal of Pediatrics found that children taking probiotics had fewer missed days of school, less fever, less runny nose, and less cough than other children. Also if you’ve taken any anti-biotics be sure to supplement with a high potency probiotic supplement to replace those good bacteria that have been killed off by the medication. Connect with your doctor about probiotic supplement that would be right for you.
4. Influenzinum A homeopathic remedy made from the flu vaccine, “Influenzinum” provides a safe and effective alternative to the vaccine. Each year the makers take the current year’s flu vaccine to make up their remedy, so the remedy is designed to match the predicted strains of flu virus. In addition to being used preventively, this remedy can also be used to treat flu symptoms should they appear. For those of us who have concerns about the flu and the flu vaccine, Influenzinum is an excellent non-toxic option, appropriate for both children and adults. We have the 2013-14 version of Influenzinum in the office.
5. Warming Sock Treatment. No doubt some of you have had me recommend this, and it continues to be a winner in my house! This natural method of stimulating the immune system and zapping a cold or flu involves putting on cold, wet socks and … are you ready for this? … sleeping in them!
It may sound strange, but it works because it rallies the body’s defenses. The body reacts to the damp socks by increasing blood circulation, which also stimulates the immune system. This also decreases congestion in the upper respiratory passages, head and throat, and many patients report that they sleep much better during the treatment. It is best to do this treatment at the first sign of illness, and repeat for at least 3 nights.
Wet sock treatment
Supplies:
1 pair of very thin cotton socks
1 pair of thick wool socks or thick polypropylene socks
1 set of sweats or pajamas
Directions:
1. Take a hot foot bath for 5-10 minutes. THIS PART IS IMPORTANT!! Dry your feet when you are done.
2. Run the thin, cotton socks under cool water. Wring them out so that them remain damp, and are not dripping wet.
3. Place cool wet socks on feet. Then cover with thick wool socks. Put on pajamas and go directly to bed.
5. Wear the socks overnight. You will find that the wet cotton socks will be dry in the morning.
Stay well everyone!