Here comes the flu...what should you do?
Based on the government estimates of potential deaths due to “the flu" we should be scared. The good news is they are likely vastly over estimated as reported in this 2012 CBC report.
Regardless of how "strong" this year's influenza virus is or isn't, the MOST important determinant as to who contracts the flu is how well someone adapts.
How strong your immune system is means far more to the outcome than simply being exposed to the influenza virus.
Here's 5 Ways to Bulletproof Your Immune System:
1. Take Your Probiotics
Your immune system function is very dependent on the harmony of your gut bacteria. When the good guys and bad guys fall out of balance, the immune system gets suppressed and your defenses become suppressed.
Along with probiotics, fermented foods can add a great dose of healthy gut bacteria.
2. Avoid Sugar & Grains
You’ve heard us say this before…whole grains as a food source are not only nutrient poor but they can also drive inflammation. Top that up with high levels of sugar which reduces white blood cell function and the immune system is bound to plummet.
3. Get Some Sleep
A good night's sleep can go a long way, probably even further than you would expect. Without adequate rest, immune cells drop and inflammation goes up...do you see the trend?
4. Correct Any Core Problems With Your Spine & Nervous System
While seemingly unrelated, an entire professional field is dedicated to Neuro-Immunology, the connection between the nervous system and immune system.
Corrective Chiropractic doctors analyze the spine in search of potential CORE PROBLEMS that could interfere with the nervous system and impact the health of the immune system.
5. Keep Your Vitamin D Levels Sufficient
It may be a trendy topic but it's a true one. Adequate vitamin D levels play a significant role in immunology and most Canadians are vitamin D deficient heading into the winter.
If you can't get 20 minutes of mid-day skin exposure to the sun, without sun screen, during non winter months, it's best to supplement with vitamin D at 35 IU's / pound of body weight. During the winter those living further from the equator may need to supplement as well.
The best way to know how sufficient your vitamin D levels are is to have your blood levels tested. This is a measurement which is better to test than guess.
No matter your personal opinion on the flu and how to protect yourself, there's nothing personal about contracting it. Influenza is primarily a problem of immune system deficiency vs. just simple exposure.
Take action. Find an expert. Stay healthy!