In all seriousness folks, should we be worried about Corona virus? I’m honestly not sure. There is so much information (and misinformation) that it makes it very difficult to know. (I have included some links below that I think are helpful and informative.)
No matter the case, I think it’s important to look after your immune system, especially if you are prone to get every cold and flu that goes around. I think of it a bit like taking out insurance – I’m not sure I’ll ever need it but I’ll cover my derriere…just in case.
Without further ado, I present your comprehensive ‘survival guide’…*
Instigators of a weakened immune system
There are many factors that may contribute to the weakening of your immune system. In order to maintain a healthy immune system you should try to minimise these factors:
- STRESS (that old chestnut…)
- Lack of regular exercise
- Lack of sleep, rest and relaxation
- Poor diet
- Nutritional deficiencies
Work on improving these and your ability to fight infection will dramatically improve.
Put the pedal to the metal and ramp up your immune system with these easy suggestions.
Nutrients
- Zinc may be the most important mineral for your immune system. Zinc deficiency may cause a weaker immune response, predisposing you to a more lengthy or severe cold. Optimal zinc levels inhibit the common cold virus. Oysters (ooh lala) are particularly high in zinc as are pepitas.
- Vitamin C is also important as it increases the activity of infection fighting white blood cells. Vitamin C may prevent the common cold as well as shorten the duration of the symptoms. I like MetaZinc with C and C-Bioactive, both yummy tasting powders. Kiwi fruit is a power house of vitamin C.
- Garlic is also great for boosting your immune system – enough of it will keep others at bay, so you won’t come into contact with carriers of germs!
- Magic mushrooms – no, no, no, NOT the psychedelic type! Shitake, reishi and cordyceps are just some of the mushroom varieties known for their immune boosting properties.
- Love your guts! Did you know that about 70% of your immune system resides in the gut? Look after bowel health with probiotics and periodic detoxification. Ultra Flora Immune Enhance is a probiotic designed to boost your immune system.
Herbs
- Andrographis paniculata is an Ayurvedic herb which has a long history of use for bacterial and viral infections. Clinical studies have shown it can reduce the severity and duration of the symptoms of colds and flu. Its anti-inflammatory properties contribute to its symptom relieving properties. I take AndroNK whenever I feel a tickle in my throat,
- Sambucus nigra (Elderberry) has traditionally been used for its anti-catarrhal and fever-reducing actions to help relieve the symptoms of colds.
- Echinacea and St John’s Wort are other great immune herbs. Did you know? St John’s Wort has great anti-viral properties?
There are a myriad of herbs that have anti-viral properties. If you are at all concerned, please get in touch. I am happy to mix you up a concoction of the ‘good stuff’!
An apple a day keeps the doctor away
Dietary and lifestyle guidelines that may assist in the management of viral infections include:
- Remove dairy, bananas, eggs, sugar, white wheat flour, saturated fats, cold drinks and juices. According to Chinese medicine principles, foods should not be excessively sweet, oily or too ‘damp’. Dampness refers to the extent to which different foods generate body fluids (e.g. mucus).
- Include warming foods with mucolytic (gets rid of mucous) and immune enhancing properties, such as ginger, onion, garlic, chilli and fenugreek into the diet.
- Drink lots…of water (room temperature)
- Take rest – don’t be a heroine…
- Try using an air purifier.
- Steam inhalations, aromatherapy oils and / or warm showers often helps loosen congestion and relieve a cough. Eucalyptus is my go to. You can put this in a spray bottle and use as your own personal hand and surface sanitiser.
- Eat a balanced diet high in fibre and complex carbohydrates with moderate amounts of protein. Eat fresh, wholesome, unprocessed foods.
Flu fighter tea
Bring 1 litre of water to the boil and add:
- 1 Tablespoon honey
- 2 tspn fresh grated ginger
- 1 slice lemon (skin on)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- ½ tspn cinnamon powder
- 6 cloves
- 1 clove garlic
- ¼ tspn fresh chopped chilli.
Continue to boil for 1 minute, then cool and drink throughout the day.
Remember
- These measures are not a guarantee that you won’t get sick, however, they may reduce your risk and the severity. At this stage the most vulnerable people are the elderly (I am getting my mother to take a ‘witches brew’ to boost her immunity) and those with existing respiratory illnesses.
- This is not our first rodeo. There have been flus before (remember SARS) and a couple of years ago we were all going to die of Ebola.
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Cough or sneeze into a tissue or the crook of your elbow.
- Information is changing day to day, so keep informed (see links below).
Where can you get more information?
Do you need some assistance?
I am offering 15 minute consultations for existing clients who would like to chat (in clinic or via Skype) about their immune system and put together a plan of action or put some immune boosters in their first aid kit. You can either book online (Acute Care – existing clients) or call Lesley on 0450 385 304 to make a suitable time. If you are new to clinic please book in for 30 minutes (Acute Care – new clients).
Yours in good health,
Marnie
*This information is not meant to replace standard medical practice guidelines. If you are think you have been exposed to the virus, seek medical attention.