Strengthening Your Immune System
As with other viruses, it is important to sustain your immune system. You can do it by consuming foods high in vitamin C and antioxidants, such as citrus fruits (orange, lemon, and the like), broccoli, garlic, onion, ginger, and turmeric. You can also eat medicinal mushrooms (maitake, reishi) or take supplements thereof. Elderberry extracts have also been shown to enhance the immune system. However, overdoing the supplements may lead to autoimmune conditions, where the body starts fighting against its own tissues.
Keeping Clean Inside and Out
To decrease changes of getting sick, wash your hands with soap and water; don’t touch your face; stay away from sick people (if possible); get plenty of sleep and take in enough fluids to help the body stay strong. Don’t forget that toxic emotions (including unresolved anger) can predispose to illness, so keep your conscience clean.
What if I Get Sick?
If you feel sick, please stay home if possible and call your doctor if you have severe symptoms, such as high fever, muscle pains, and weakness. You can also do breathing exercises and visualization (imagining your immune cells are fighting the viral invaders and winning the war); these have been shown to increase immunity. Also, see the related article, Vitamin D: A Missing Link in our Health. http://www.womenslifelink.com/vitamin-d-a-missing-link-in-our-health/
Be well.
Dr. Ance Lamse, MD
