What Could Be Better For Your Health Than A Flu Shot?
A Strong Immune System, That’s What!!!

    Every year, especially during the winter months, you’re faced with the challenge of staying healthy through the “cold and flu season.”  Some folks will turn to flu shots, not realizing that in the days that follow the inoculation, their immune system is more compromised than ever, leaving them vulnerable to infections.  Others will seek symptom relief through pharmaceuticals, natural remedies and/or potions once the “bugs” have set in, doing their best to stay on their feet while they fight their way through the illness.  A third option is to be proactive!  You can make choices and take steps to support your immune system so that when cold and flu viruses attack, your body stands strong against them.

1. Stay well hydrated.  Drink plenty of pure water using the following formula: figure ½ of your body weight… that’s the minimum ounces of water and other healthy liquids you should consume each day.  Your body must have sufficient fluids to cleanse properly.
2. Exercise at least ½ hour each day, preferably out in the fresh air.  Activity enables every system in your body to work better.  Breathe deeply in the fresh air.  Your body uses oxygen to “clean house.”  Not only that, but anaerobic microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and some parasites, cannot thrive in a well-oxygenated environment.  (Oxygen Elements Max can supply additional oxygen support.)
3. Reduce sugar consumption.  Research has shown that sugar suppresses the immune system and can impair your defenses against infectious diseases.  (Go to www.mercola.com to read “76 Ways Sugar Can Ruin Your Health”)
4. Increase your basic nutritional supplements-vitamins, minerals, enzymes, etc.  The body requires extra nutritional support during times of stress or illness.  (Vitamin C is excellent, affordable immune support.  Increase your intake of Vitamin C to “bowel tolerance.”  Bowel tolerance is the point at which the stool becomes loose.)  Make sure your supplements come in a form your body can use, preferably liquids, powders, or powders in gelatin/vegetarian capsules.
5. Consider using one or more of the many immune supportive supplements available such as Noni Juice, Colostrum Plus, Ganoderma (Reishi mushroom), Sambucol (Black Elderberry extract), and others.  Do some research to find the immune support that’s right for you.
6. Get plenty of rest.  Your body needs “down time” to rejuvenate.  A full-spectrum mineral supplement taken in the evening will help prepare you for a good night’s rest.

Yes, there are many more things you can do to strengthen your defenses.  Hopefully, these ideas just got you started thinking about being proactive.  Personally, I went from catching everything that came along (6 years ago) to staying strong and healthy year after year.  If I can do it, you can do it!

To learn more about strengthening your defenses, read "Is Your Immune System In The Lost and Found?"

Susan Summers, Health Educator and Owner of New Leaf Health Source,
Past-President & current member- Puget Sound Wellness Association