Hey Flu – Bug Off! Tips for Preventing Seasonal Flu, Naturally
They say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. When it comes to Seasonal Influenza, A.K.A: flu – we agree! Fever, fatigue, cough, headaches, runny nose and a sore throat – we get chills just thinking about it. Flu season peaks in February, so bone up on your “Flu I.Q.” to ward off the bug from biting in the first place!
First, don’t forget the basics of flu prevention. Grandma’s advice still stands – diligence in hand-washing, avoiding sick people, covering the mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, and getting adequate rest and exercise significantly decrease the risk of contracting the flu. It’s all about building the best flu prevention system there is – the body’s very own immune system.
Not to be discounted, food is medicine (or a toxin, depending on your choices) . The gastrointestinal tract is an essential immune system component, so the first line of defense is to reduce sugar intake. Sugar tends to create a fertile breeding ground for pathogenic bacteria, yeast, and fungi that can leave the immune system vulnerable to respiratory virus. Just say no to sugar!
A balanced diet rich in colorful foods is a top contender for flu prevention. But, our convenience driven society requires supplements to ensure adequate intake of the vitamins and minerals found in nature’s medicine cabinet. That’s where Natty P comes in! We know where you can get the world’s purest, most potent supplements. Check out our top 5 picks – supplements with sturdy reputations for stopping the flu bug in its tracks.
“Kung Fu” for Flu – Put up a Fight with the Right Supplements
Omega 3’s: There’s nothing fishy about this! Be certain to choose a high-quality Omega 3 supplement. Essential fatty acids help reduce inflammation that can prevent the immune system from achieving its full potential.
Vitamin D: In the winter, most people don’t get enough sun exposure for adequate Vitamin D levels even if they hail from sunny Scottsdale, Arizona where Natty P is headquartered. In addition to supplementation, good sources of Vitamin D are fish and fortified diary. Turns out, many of us are deficient in the sunshine vitamin, which can yield higher rates of upper respiratory infections. In addition to regulating the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, Vitamin D promotes a normal functioning immune system during flu season and beyond.
Astragalus Herb: Funny name, but incredible medicinal benefits! A traditional Chinese medicine, astragalus has long been hailed for its ability to boost the immune system, so take the extract all season long in liquid, powder or chewable form.
Zinc: The most vulnerable among us – the elderly and children – often don’t get adequate levels of zinc, a mineral found plentiful in beans, nuts, spinach and grains. Zinc bolsters the immune system. So, if the kids turn their noses up at the table, the right supplement, under the right supervision, will do the job.
Ginseng: Known for its preventative and also healing agents, the two types – American ginseng and Asian or Korean ginseng – can be taken before and after the arrival of flu (or cold) symptoms for a few weeks at a time. (Across traditional Chinese medicine, American ginseng is considered less stimulating than the Asian variety.) A popular medicine throughout the world, ginseng is touted for its immunity boosting support, and cannot be found in food sources.
For more information Call Bluemoon Acupuncture Wellness Center at
520-505-1442
