Surviving Cold and Flu Season, Naturally

By Angela C. Darling, DC, MSW

Well, it's that time of year again. Parties, crowded malls, colder weather and the stress of the holidays take a toll on your body's immune system. According to many in the chiropractic profession, following these five premises of health will help you protect yourself and your family from the usual seasonal illnesses.

Nutrition

The body needs good nutrition – vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes and electrolytes – to fuel the organs, cells, and nerves. We are fortunate to have biochemical research, which shows us what nutrients we need and in what proportions to keep us healthy. When we are out of balance, we may need to add supplements to combat fatigue, brain fog, or depression.

Healthy Mind

For the body to heal itself, we also need to have a healthy mind and outlook on life. A positive attitude and a smile can go a long way in how we handle stress and deal with our relationships. Handling stress in our lives goes hand-in-hand with sleeping well, and both lead to peace of mind and a greater sense of well-being.

Exercise

The body needs oxygen to maintain healthy, lean muscles, and the heart is the premier muscle of life. There is no better way to get oxygen to the heart than through aerobic exercise. Through regular exercise, you decrease fat and increase your lean muscle mass. As a bonus, studies have shown that the benefits of regular exercise and a release of endorphins match or exceed the benefits of anti-depressants.

Optimal Nervous System Function

A healthy immune system is dependent upon having a well-functioning nervous system. Keeping your spine healthy during cold and flu season is especially important for optimal immunity. When the spine is out of alignment, there is pressure on the nerves that go to our brains, organs, and muscles. Misalignment of the bones in our spine is very common and does not always cause pain.

Toxin Reduction

Last but not least, minimizing the amount of toxins in your body is essential to staying healthy. This pertains to food and drink as well as environmental toxins. Try to use more natural household cleaners, such as baking soda, vinegar or peroxide. Reduce your intake of alcohol and refined foods, which are seen as waste products for the body to dispose of, causing it to work harder.