This is the time of year where supporting your immune system is very important.
This year maybe even more important. As we move into cooler temperatures and less sun exposure, giving your body a nutritional boost is essential.
Preparing for the cold and flu season is very important. There are many types of viruses. They all behave similarly and have similar characteristics. Many things that help with one viral strain help with others, too. You could have a cold or flu or a more serious viral infection like meningitis, Epstein Barr (mononucleosis), chickenpox, shingles, or HIV, and still benefit from similar nutritional support. This article is not intended as a substitute for medical care, diagnosis, and/or treatment. Always seek the advice of your Medical Doctor for questions about a medical condition before you start learning how to prepare for flu season naturally.
Viruses spread in different ways, depending on the virus. Hepatitis C, a liver disease, is spread through body fluid. Influenza can be spread by coming in contact with the virus that has been left behind on an object or through the air. Immune challenges like bacteria divide to grow. Fungi grow in the body by spreading spores. But, viruses replicate differently once they are in the body. They attach to cells and then penetrate the cell. Then, these cells are unable to function normally.
Many viruses like the liver and replicate there. They can also get stuck there as the body is going through normal detox and healing processes. Viruses also impact nerve lines. This is why people often have headaches when they have a virus. The pain with shingles is because the nerve is inflamed by the virus.
During the flu season and if you have a history of viruses keep your immune system strong with the following tools and vitamins for your immune system:
- Keep your cells healthy with a whole food vitamin C supplement like Cyruta Plus or Cataplex C. If you keep the cell wall strong viruses can’t penetrate as easily.
- Echinacea Premium is an excellent support product for the immune system. Kerry Bone, the manufacturer of it says: “it is like putting glasses on the immune system so it can work better.
- Calcium Lactate helps with fever and helps mobilize white blood cells to better fight off illness.
- Vitamin D helps the immune system and is good for the bones. It can also help circulation, brain, and helps with calcium absorption. Fall and winter (times when sun exposure is less) are a good time to consider Vitamin D supplementation.
- L-Lysine can help suppress viral expression and also help with tissue healing.
- Zinc supports a healthy immune system function.
- Wash your hands frequently.
- Some foods can flare viral load. The foods that are common triggers are high arginine foods: nuts and seeds, nut butter, brown rice, corn, sesame seeds, brussel sprouts, oats, and onions. Avoiding these foods if you suspect a virus can help your immune system recover faster.
I hope some of these natural virus relief ideas help you on your path to wellness!
Yours in health,
Kerry Cradit, B.S. Nutrition and Food Science
