Sunday, January 13, 2013

Surviving Cold and Flu Season

Cold and Flu season is in full swing here in Arkansas.  Here is what we have been doing in our household to boost our immune system: 

*PRAY!

*Start with a Whole Foods diet.  We follow a diet similar to Paleo, but GAPS, SCD, and Primal are some others.  Never heard of those?  Have no clue what I am talking about?  Start here:
1.  Eat real, whole foods (meats, fruits, vegetables)
2.  Avoid sugar and processed foods
3.  Avoid food allergens
4.  Eat fermented foods (probiotic rich foods like Kombucha, Sauerkraut, Yogurt, Kefir)

*Whole Food Vitamin C supplement - We love Young Living's Super C.  "Super C™ not only contains 2,166% of the recommended dietary intake of vitamin C per serving, but it is also fortified with rutin, citrus bioflavonoids, and minerals to balance electrolytes and enhance the effectiveness and absorption of vitamin C.* The essential oils that are added may also increase bioflavonoid activity. Vitamin C is one of the most important vitamins required by our bodies. The ingredients in Super C play a role in normal immune and circulatory functions, help to strengthen connective tissues, and promote overall health, vitality, and longevity.* Because our bodies cannot manufacture vitamin C, we can benefit by consuming this powerful antioxidant daily."

*Vitamin D - we take this in the form of Fermented Cod Liver Oil / Butter Oil, and also liquid vitamin D drops (from Vitacost).  VItamin D is actually proven far better than vaccines at preventing the flu!  (http://www.naturalnews.com/029760_vitamin_D_influenza.html)

*Immune boosting Teas, including Green Tea and Nettle Leaf Tea.  Add raw honey and cinnamon for a delicious flavor and added health benefits. 

*Essential Oils -We love to support our immune system with Thieves Vitality oil!  "With Young Living’s Thieves Vitality essential oil you can support overall wellness and a healthy immune system* with just a few drops. Thieves Vitality combines Lemon, Clove, Eucalyptus Radiata, Cinnamon Bark, and Rosemary essential oils to create one of our most popular products. These ingredients synergistically combine to offer one of the key benefits of Thieves Vitality oil: overall wellness and support of a healthy immune system. Additionally, Eucalyptus Radiata Vitality may also help support a healthy respiratory system when taken internally".



*Homeopathics - We especially love Chestal by Boiron (order from Vitacost).  Our family doctor had first recommended this to me one time when I was pregnant and had bronchitis.  Coughing with a big belly is not fun!  I was skeptical and unfamiliar with homeopathics, but quickly became a believer.  The following year, two of our children got the flu while traveling to Alabama.  My husband was about to deploy and I had to make the drive back home by myself.  Getting sick was not an option!  I immediately started Oscillococcinum (available from Vitacost), and avoided the flu.

*GOOT - We rub this on our feet every night before bed.  Smells awful, but does have amazing results.

*Regular Chiropractic Care


What are your favorite family cold and flu remedies?


(These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.  I am not a doctor and do not offer medical advice.  This is simply just what our family has been doing and I hope it will encourage and help you to make the best decision for your family).

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