On the heels of my last post which laid out how ND’s (Naturopathic Doctors) treat acute health problems…this one is about prevention! Hehe!
Every year, we hear about colds and flus and taking action to prevent these illnesses. It can seem hum drum most of the time (and somewhat common sense). Wash your hands, cover your sneeze, keep up your fluids, & rest at home. Got it. Okay, anything else I can do?
Maybe it’s because I have a toddler in my house this year, but I’ve been feeling especially inspired to prevent these seasonal maladies!
There are basic nutrients to include in one’s immune boosting arsenal. Vitamins C and D, good healthy probiotics and fish oils or omega 3’s. Food sourced or supplemental. Just to name a few…
Then we’ve got additional immune boosting & ‘bug-fighting’ plants and foods we can take in a myriad of forms. The right kind of mushrooms and the most potent extractions can make a big difference. Astragalus or Echinacea? Which one’s right for you? You’ve heard of oregano oil...but do you take it all the time or just with a cold? And of course I recommend regular intake of garlic, ginger and unpasteurized honey. (That line is dedicated to my friend Shawn;).
Homeopathics can be used for prevention as well as treatments of colds and flus (& a great option for tiny little bodies or those concerned about drug interactions).
In addition to what we can take for prevention…what about the state of our bodies before we begin this regimen?
Gut health plays an integral role in our immune function and defenses. Monitoring your (hopefully) daily toilet routines or finding the root cause of those embarrassing toots & belches is more important than you realize. Your insides are in fact trying to tell you something…HELP!! And when you do provide some relief for your irritated bowels, your immune system will begin thanking you too.
Stressed? And what is causing stress in our bodies’ anyway? Well, take heart. We know that the stress-reducing supports we can utilize improves your adrenal (stress) glands and also immune function.
How’s your liver been treating you lately? (Or how have you been treating your liver?) If you haven’t thought about or given it much attention, maybe it’s time for a little Liver-TLC. Happy and healthy detoxification often means better well-being overall! (Check out my upcoming blog for more info on detoxes & cleansing.)
Want more specific and individual guidance in keeping you and your family’s bodies in top form?
Call for your Naturopathic appointment at 204-774-5521.
