There is generally a huge push for widespread public vaccination with the flu vaccine and then some people become panicked due to shortages.   Now is the time to focus on lifestyle methods for preventing the flu, as well as suggestions for what to do if you contract a virus.

Prevention:
 

• Receive regular spinal adjustments.  There are numerous studies that show that chiropractic care directly impacts the immune system.  Don’t let pain symptoms dictate when you get adjusted!
• Wash your hands frequently, especially after going to public places such as stores and gyms. Keep your hands and fingers away from your mouth, nose and eyes.   This may be a good time to keep a bottle of Purell around, although topical alcohol products should be used sparingly.
• Get plenty of regular rest.  (This is probably the most important thing to do to support the immune system overall!)
  Clean up your diet and eat with the season!  If you’ve been eating a lot of processed foods, consider having 2-3 colonics. Next, commit to a diet based on whole grains, roasted root vegetables, steamed greens, and hearty soups. 
• Dress appropriately for the weather and avoid getting chilled.
• Don’t let stress build up in your life.   Practice deep breathing, meditation and get regular exercise.
• Take 1 to 2 gms of Vitamin C, two garlic capsules, and two      acidophilus every day as prophylactics during the flu season.  (I recommend Primal Defense by Garden of Life for the acidophilus supplement.)

 Treatment:

• At the very first sign of any symptoms begin taking six drops of Newton’s Flu Homeopathic three to four times daily.  If you have a cold or bronchitis, take the Newton’s Cold Homeopathic.  (Follow the instructions on the bottle.)

• Some patients also have found that taking the homeopathic Oscillococinum, by Boiron, with the Newton’s Flu works well. Check out Zycam homeopathic products.  Particularly the zinc nasal gel and quick melt tablets.  They’re readily available at most drugstores and supermarkets such as Publics.

• Stock your fridge with a natural electrolyte beverage such as Recharge.  Your body will need as much fluid as you can drink if you get sick.

• Increase Vitamin C to 3 to 4 gms per day.  (Loose bowels indicate saturation, reduce dosage if this happens.)

• Begin taking 2 warm baths/day using green Bath Therapy salts. (Available at any health food store.)  If you have a fever, avoid really hot baths.  On this subject, the general advice about fevers is to let them run their course.  An increased body temp means your immune system is working to fight the virus.

• Above all—sleep; as much as you can, just stay in bed and rest; remember, this too shall pass!