Beat the Flu: 7 Ways to Stay Healthy

January/ February 2013

Greetings

I hope your new year is off to a rockin start.  I’ve enjoyed being back in the office these past few weeks and seeing some of you again after the holiday break.

Barely a month into 2013, this year is already moving full speed ahead.  It seems that for many this time is presenting challenges in one form or another.  If this is you, try using whatever challenge is at hand as an opportunity to reconnect with your resources and inner strength.  Times of struggle have a way of bringing out positive qualities you didn’t even know you had.  As hard as it may seem, try to look for the positive in any situation and see what messages the universe may have for you.

Speaking of challenges, this years cold and flu season has been one of the worst. Although the flu is now technically on the decline in most states, there are still plenty of flu and cold cases in Malibu.  In the office I’ve seen only a few cases of flu, but an extraordinary number of colds and other “bugs”.  Prevention is key. In this issue of Malibu Acupuncture & Herbs Online read Beat the Flu: 7 Ways to Stay Healthy for simple steps you can take. 

Enjoy!

Be Well,

Malibu Acupuncture & Herbs

News

Open Saturdays!

Just a reminder that we are open every other Saturday from 10-2 beginning this Saturday, February 2nd.  

Recent Press

Malibu Times Magazine, Jan/Feb Issue

Ever wonder how acupuncture works? Interested in learning more about herbs? Check out my 2 articles in this issue of Malibu Times magazine.  

Discovering Acupuncture 
Invite an Herb into Your Life 

Special Points

Beat the Flu: 7 Ways to Stay Healthy

Times like this where every other person you know is sick calls for the big guns. Pull out the immune toolbox!  We all wish there was one miracle pill or herb to take, but it’s actually a series of preventative measures that are most effective.  

Of course some people are lucky and have the immune system made of steel.  For the rest of us with kids, or busy lives, or average immune systems we have to be smart and use all the tools we have. You’ll notice the toolbox below is a combination of things to do, and supplements/herbs to take.  Don’t skip out on one for another- all pieces are equally important.

What to do

1. Sleep

It seems obvious but when we get rundown and are lacking on sleep, our immune system is weakened, exposing to us to colds and flu.  Listen to your body. If you’re feeling tired, get some extra sleep.  It might be those extra couple of hours that allow your immune system recoup enough too fight off a virus or bacteria.  

2.  Cover your neck

You might notice feeling sensitive to the cold or wind at times and wanting to stay covered up. You’re right on track.  In Chinese medicine, the back of the neck is sensitive to cold and windy weather and can play a part in colds and flu when exposed.  Wear a scarf or a hoodie. 

3.  Wash your hands

Hand washing is one of the simplest ways to prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria.  Make a point to wash your hands more frequently.

4.  Ditch the sugar

Sugar suppresses the immune system.  According to WebMD eating just 75-100 g of a sugar solution reduces the ability of white blood cells to overpower and destroy bacteria.  Substitute sugar with low glycemic sweeteners like Xylitol or Stevia, or use local raw honey.  

5.  Keep stress to a minimum

If the idea of less stress sounds elusive, simply try doing less.  Sometimes less is more.  Chronic stress causes the body to release flows of the hormones cortisol and adrenaline which make the body more vulnerable to illness. Practices like meditation, yoga, regular exercise and getting a good laugh all help to regulate stress levels.

6. Get Acupuncture

Acupuncture moves lymph in the body and helps increase white blood cells and T fighter cells.  It can be used effectively to boost the immune system to help ward of colds and flu, as well as lessen duration and intensity in one thats already begun.

7. What to take

Thermosomal Vitamin C– 2,000-3,000 IU daily

Micellized Vitamin D3– 2,000 IU daily

Micellized Vitamin A– 10,000 IU daily

Zinc– 30 mg daily

Custom Probiotics– 2 caps daily

Dragon Herbs Four Kings or Supreme Protector–  4 caps, 2 x daily
With herbs like Reishi, Cordyceps and Astragalus, these herbal complexes contain a wide variety of anti-viral, anti-bacterial herbs.  They also help to increase white blood cell count and improve immune function. 

*Recommended dosages are for cold and flu prevention. Brands of nutritional supplements vary in quality and effectiveness.  For recommendations consult your acupuncturist.

Recommendations

Thermosomal Vitamin C

This is a recent discovery in the superior delivery of vitamin C.  Using “lipospheric nanotechnology”, Thermosomal Vitamin C is encapsulated in a lipid form that has the same membrane chemistry as human cells.  This results in the vitamin C being absorbed by cells as effectively as if you were getting an IV.

I’ve had minor sore throats that went away within 1/2 hour of taking this and my patients have reported similar stories.  It really works!  

Want to know where to find it? Look no further!  

Recipe of the Month

Easy Lentil Soup

There’s nothing like a warm bowl of veggie lentil soup on cold day. Onions and garlic give a boost to the immune system, and spinach provides vitamin A, C, K, folate, iron and phyto-nutrients.  Make some extra and have leftovers for the next few days! 

Ingredients

1 yellow onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, crushed
2 T coconut oil
1/2 cup washed red lentils
1/2 cup washed yellow lentils
2 large carrots, grated
2 boxes Organic Vegetable Broth
2-3 cups boiling water
1 tsp sea salt
Black pepper to taste
1 tsp cumin powder
1+ cup pre-washed baby spinach

1. In a large pot, saute onions and garlic in coconut oil until soft.

2. Add lentils, carrots, broth, and water.  Boil for about 30 minutes or until lentils are well cooked.

3.  Add sea salt, black pepper and cumin.

4.  In the last 3 minutes before serving, add spinach.  

Enjoy!