As you are aware, we are in the middle of the flu season not to mention many severe cold virus infections. As a chiropractor in close contact with people every day I must do my best to stay healthy to take care of my patients. How do I achieve this and what can others do to stay well and resist infections?
First, we suggest that see your chiropractor regularly for adjustments. Chiropractic adjustments reduce stress on the nervous system and boost white blood cell activity. When your spine and nervous system is functioning efficiently you feel better and can do regular exercise which also strengthens your immune system and slows aging. Aim for 30 minutes or more of exercise 4 to 5 times per week.
Next, try to eat at least 5 to 7 servings of fruit and vegetables each day including one serving of a cruciferous vegetable (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage). The Indole-3-Carbinol in cruciferous vegetables improves your detoxification function to more youthful levels.
Further, if you do not have a well-balanced diet or have excessive levels of stress take a potent multivitamin/mineral supplement each day. Think of this as added health insurance for anything lacking. It also goes without saying that you should not smoke and drink alcohol only moderately or not at all to be healthy.
For specific supplements to reduce incidents of colds and flu or to recover faster should you fall ill, we have found the following two, to be very helpful:
Immuno-core from Metagenics is excellent. It provides multiple approaches to support the immune system through enhancing white blood cells known as macrophages and natural killer cells. It contains potent time-released vitamin C and zinc plus a blend of mushroom extracts. Zinc helps maintain immune function and is deficient in the diet of most such that they are below optimal levels.
Immuno-detox Prime from Adeeva is another excellent supplement. It contains herbal agents that support the function of the immune system such as Reishi mushroom extract, astragalus; two very powerful nutrients as well as Indole-3-Carbinol and silymarin. Silymarin from milk thistle can regenerate damaged liver cells and boost levels of glutathione.
One can alternate between these two supplements or take both if you are over the age of 45. We recommend that you take at least 1,000 IU of Vitamin D each day from fall to spring. D is not only good for your bone health but slows the rate of cell division in your Healthy Body. Due to long winters with little sun exposure in the Northern Hemisphere and sunscreen we need to take a Vitamin D supplement.
By implementing all or at least some of these habits you will have a stronger immune system.
