Immune Health

The topic that comes up the most this time of year as we move into the arctic weather is immunity and the cold and flu season. The odds of people getting sick this time of year increase exponentially: our immune systems get taxed, and we are confined indoors with germs spreading around at will. While not ever getting sick is the ultimate goal, that may not be the case for most of us. Our real goal is to keep it to a minimum. This winter, we want to limit how often we are getting sick, how long that sickness lasts, and how severe the symptoms actually are.

When we are exposed to a pathogen (i.e. bacteria or virus), our immune system gets to work instantly. Our bodies never want to be sick, in pain, or not functioning perfectly; therefore, our systems are always on alert and fighting off the bad guys. The power of your immune system is based on quantity of resources available: it requires adequate resources of vitamins and minerals, and there are plenty of herbal remedies that help boost our immunity as well. We always need more Vitamin C, D, A, Zinc, Magnesium, Selenium, and Antioxidants. Herbal remedies that help when we are sick include: Reishi mushrooms, Elderberry, Garlic, Ginger, and Echinacea. These are all great things that we have, and often times are blended together in our immune supplements.

Diet and exercise still matter, including getting plenty of fruits and vegetables. Decreasing stress, getting plenty of sleep, washing your hands, and avoiding alcohol all go a long way to helping your immune system as well. Should you get sick, it is important to remember that your symptoms are actually healthy functions of the body, and instead of going for the cough suppressants, fever reducers, and pain medication, we want to replenish your natural resources, take time to recover, and build your immune system back quickly so there is no re-occurrence. The odds of getting sick again are greatly increased, so the 2-3 week window after being sick are the most important to be stocking up on all your great immune supplements.

There’s one more way to boost your immune system that we don’t often take into account: Chiropractic Care! Our nervous system is the driving force behind how our body functions; and there is a direct link to our immune system. Research shows almost a 50% increase in our immune cells with regular chiropractic care- and that is without any other intervention! Those who don’t receive chiropractic care actually lose about 10% of their immune cells during the same amount of time. So, in addition to supplements, it is vital to get your regular tune-ups, and even more so if you aren’t feeling well. If you are having issues or have any questions, we are always here to help you get to optimal health and live your life in your sweet spot!

Yours in Health,
Dr. J.