Practical Information on the Influenza Pandemic:

Influenza is a hot topic regardless of the information medium. Not surprisingly, so is the topic of flu vaccinations. Unfortunately, the answer with regards to the flu vaccine is not a simple one. As a patient, you are entitled to informed choice through your doctor which means reasons both to and to not vaccinate should be explained fully to the patient so they may evaluate their options. For information on vaccines please visit the CDC website. Note that there have been risks associated with flu vaccines and side-effects from the adjuvants within the vaccines themselves. There is also the question of whether or not current vaccines are effective and in fact, some suggest they may potentially be more harmful than not vaccinating. More significant risks (more → less common) include: local reactions and infection, asthma and other immune conditions, anaphylaxis, permanent neurological disorders, allergic reactions and death.

A question not often asked with regards to immunity is “why do some people get sick when exposed to the virus while others do not”? The answer to that question isn’t a simple one, but certainly involves looking at the physiology of the immune system. Naturopathic flu prevention options use less invasive therapies. Dietary and lifestyle changes, nutritional supplementation, botanicals, homeopathics, and injection or I.V. vitamin and mineral therapies to support the immune system. Schedule an appointment with your naturopathic doctor to discuss the particulars so that together you can develop a flu prevention protocol that is specific to your needs.

CDC. Vaccination info. http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/

Vaccination Risk Awareness Network. Health risks associated with various vaccines. http://vran.org/health-risks/

Public Health Agency of Canada. H1N1 vaccinations adverse effects. http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/addeve-eng.php

Globe and Mail. Vaccinating for seasonal flu increases risk of contracting H1N1. http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/technology/science/study-prompts-provinces-to-rethink-flu-plan/article1303330/

Beat the Flu Naturally!

A few lifestyle tips to bolster your immune system include getting adequate sleep, reducing exposure to allergens and other immune-compromising agents, and finding ways to reduce stress.

• Humans are not naturally nocturnal animals, and because of the change in light-dark cycles it is important to get 7-8 hours of sleep every night. Also try to aim to be in bed at a reasonable time to ensure appropriate cortisol and melatonin levels.
• Many people are exposed to allergens and toxins on a daily basis but may not even realize. A great deal of our immune system resides in our gastrointestinal tract fighting off pathogens, allergens and other “toxins”. By reducing the overall toxic load (especially allergenic foods exposure), we allow our immune system to combat other threats.
• Stress (of any kind) causes an elevation in cortisol levels. If exposure to cortisol is prolonged, there is an inhibition of our immune cells from eliminating pathogens. Every person is encouraged to perform daily relaxation techniques (this can be done in under 20 minutes) and smile.
• Flu Etiquette: Reduce your exposure to pathogens from others (and vice versa).
  1. Wash your hands for 30+ seconds, warm water and soap (NOT antibacterial), clean towel to dry.
  2. Cover up your cough (and sneeze!)
  3. Avoid touching mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth) with unwashed hands

Helpful Therapies:

• – Vitamins A, C, E: Mucous membranes, immune support, antioxidant
• – Vitamin D: low levels increase flu susceptibility
• – Zinc: T-cell efficacy, antiviral, MOST people deficient
• – Probiotics: Beneficial vs. bad bacteria for immune support
• – Avoid refined/allergenic foods! (“white” foods, sugar, flour, dairy)
• – Weight loss: obesity is a risk factor for influenza

Be sure to schedule an appointment with your naturopathic doctor for more information!

YouTube. Dr. Mercola video: Natural ways to boost your immune system. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PABI55bRn5I