A Functional Medicine Approach to Protect Against the Flu

The flu season is upon us and it is important to take steps to protect yourself now. People who are most vulnerable are those with chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease, obesity, and those with a weakened immune system. The best way to protect yourself is to build resilience before the flu season hits by applying a functional medicine whole-body approach.
A functional medicine treats the whole-body by a systems-oriented approach looking for imbalances in the body to bring balance back and to protect health and prevent illness.
Adopting good health habits are key to assist in building a healthy immune system. Basic things such as sleep, exercise, and meditation all have shown benefit in preventing the flu.
The best way to protect against illness is to optimize wellness by maintaining a sufficient nutrient status. Eat lots of fresh veggies, low sugar fruits, good protein and healthy fats. Remember to drink plenty of clean water and add in green tea. It is important to decrease the simple carbohydrates and minimize alcohol and caffeine intake.
It seems so simple, good hand washing techniques are key to prevent catching the flu and spreading it to our loved ones, so always wash your hands immediately when returning home from being out. Removing your shoes at the door is another way of keeping those unwanted bugs out.
Stress can directly affect the immune system, so it is important to find activities to de-stress and do them routinely. Activities such as good quality sleep (eight hours uninterrupted), meditation, exercise, and having fun can all activate the calming nervous system and help us de-stress.
However, the flu is upon us and it is here with a vengeance. Here are some ‘must-do-nows’ to protect against and treatment for the flu. At the onset of the flu season boost your immune system by taking vitamin D, vitamin C, omega-3 fatty fish oils, probiotics, and immune boosting polysaccharides such as white button top mushrooms.
If you unfortunately come down with the flu some treatment options to consider are berberine, Echinacea, and elderberry extract. Zinc can be used locally as a spray or lozenges for its antimicrobial effect (kills on contact). Drink lots of homemade broth either bone or veggie with added garlic.
For more information, please call Compassionate Healthcare Associates at 661-295-7777.