VitaminBaronKeeping An Eye On Your Health
Natural Products for Colds and the Flu |
The common cold is one of the most widespread illnesses in the nation. It seems as if more and more consumers have accepted the notion that the money is in the medicine and that a cure for the common cold or the flu will not be here anytime soon. We can enhance our chances of preventing colds and the flu by boosting our immune systems with a nutritious, balanced diet, regular exercise, and most importantly by adding supplements to our daily regime.
Echinacea
With annual sales of over $300 million, Echinacea may be the most popular and most studied anti cold remedy. It is shown to fight bacteria and viral infections, to boost the immune system, to lower fever, to calm allergic reactions, and to stimulate proliferation CD4 cells.Many studies have shown that Echinacea prevents the formation of an enzyme called hyaluronidase, which destroys a natural barrier between healthy tissue and undesirable pathogenic organisms. Thus the herb helps the body ward off unwanted invaders such as flu viruses.A study published in Planta Medica, which showed that the Echinacea root extract destroyed both herpes and influenza viruses. Echinacea is the world's most sought after herb, it is literally an icon as an herbal response to the cold bacteria and flu.Unless more research is conducted using higher doses, do not be too quick to dismiss Echinacea as simply folklore.
Antioxidants
In addition to multi vitamins, we recommend antioxidants since the immune system is very sensitive to oxidative damage. We recommend antioxidants like Vitamin C and Vitamin E as well as quercetin or grape seed extract which both contain polyphenols.New research indicates that a large portion of the bodys immune system is located in the gastrointestinal tract and thus, Probiotics, normally associated with intestinal health, are showing promise with colds and flu. Specifically, Acidophilus Bifidus strains show help in reducing the severity of cold and flu symptoms.
Herbal Remedies
Many herbs help regulate the immune system and combat cold symptoms. You may want to keep some of the herbs listed below in your natural medicine chest.
•Goldenseal•Fenugreek• Holy Basil•Licorice•Thyme•Garlic•Mullein•Elderberry
Cold , Hard Facts
• Each year, most adults contact about two to four colds.• Children average six to 10 colds each year.• The average person spends two years of his or her life with a cold.• At least 200 or more flu and cold viruses exist.• A cold and flu sufferer is contagious from the day before the symptoms surface, until one to three days after they are well.•
Sick days from the common colds and the flu cost U.S. companies $660 per employee in 2005.
Things to Do and Things to Avoid
•Eat fresh fruits and vegetables, especially those containing Vitamin C.• Increase your intake of whole grains.• Drink warm liquids, especially clear, unsweetened fluids.• Avoid dairy and sugar.•
Stay away from animal fats, processed foods and alcoholic beverages.
As with any vitamin or supplement, please consult your doctor before taking. Author Beverly Terhune speaks from 35 years of living with Rheumatoid Arthritis and shares her experience, strength & hope on how to lead a healthy, substance-free life.
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