Supplements for flu prevention

Sunday, January 13, 2013 by: Randall Neustaedter OMD
Tags: flu prevention, supplements, nutrients

(NaturalNews) The pharmaceutical industry would have us believe that the only means of preventing the flu is to get a flu shot. This could not be further from the truth. Flu vaccines are dangerous and ineffective. And there are excellent ways for you to boost your immune system and stay healthy.

The most important measure for flu prevention is to take vitamin D3 (adults 5,000 IU, children 2,000 IU, and babies 1,000 IU) throughout the colder months of the year. Vitamin D is essential for healthy immune function. Vitamin K2 will also boost immune function (40+ mcg).

Other supplements can activate the immune system as well. Whey protein powder that contains immunoglobulins and lactoferrin, or a colostrum supplement, will provide an important daily boost to immune function. Colostrum is the first milk that mammals receive during the first few days after birth. Cow's colostrum is available in several forms as a supplement. Powdered colostrum and flavored chewable colostrum are available for babies and small children. Of course, the best preventive for infants and toddlers is mother's breast milk.

Probiotics, especially lactobacillus and bifidobacteria strains, will help to ensure healthy digestion and a robust lining of the small intestine. Since 80 percent of immune cells originate in the small intestine, a healthy digestive tract is essential for adequate immunity. Taking beneficial intestinal bacteria will discourage pathogens and encourage strong immune reactions to viruses and bacteria.

For anyone who is susceptible to viruses, taking an immune-activating formula of medicinal mushrooms and the herb astragalus will result in greater resistance to infections. Certain mushrooms (fungi) have this capability, including reishi, shiitake, cordyceps, and ganoderma. Many nutritional supplement companies make preparations of these mushrooms in capsule or liquid form.
Make sure you get plenty of sleep during the winter. Sleep deprivation will result in impaired immune function. Eat warm nourishing foods like soups and stews in the winter, and plenty of vegetables and fruits that will supply antioxidants.

Finally, flu shots are detrimental to your health. They can cause flu symptoms and several other adverse effects including a syndrome of muscle paralysis. Many reviews of flu vaccines have shown their ineffectiveness, especially in young children and seniors, the population most susceptible to complications from the flu.

About the author:
Dr. Randall Neustaedter, OMD, has practiced and taught holistic medicine for more than thirty years in the San Francisco Bay area, specializing in child health care. He is a licensed acupuncturist and doctor of Chinese medicine, author of The Holistic Baby Guide, Child Health Guide and The Vaccine Guide. Visit his website, www.cure-guide.com, to register for a free newsletter with pediatric specialty articles and follow him on Facebook, at Dr. Randall Neustaedter, OMD.