Another winter and another flu season is on the way. I am constantly asked about my opinion on the flu shot and natural alternatives. Naturopathic medicine offers many preventative measures for strengthening the immune system. I strongly believe that regardless of whether you choose to be vaccinated against the flu, preventative measures and naturopathic immune support should also be taken. Here are a few preventative measures we should all be aware of:

• Drink plenty of water and keep hydrated
• Take your multi-vitamin, extra antioxidants, and probiotics
• Eat a healthy diet with minimal sugar (1 tbsp of sugar will depress the immune system for 20 min); this includes sugar in packaged products eg. Granola bars, cereals, and baked goods
• Gargle nightly with salt water
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds
• Cough and sneeze into your arm, not your hand
• If you do become sick, stay home, rest, and take natural supplements as prescribed by your ND

In my office I also recommend the products below for patients. I will be discussing these products, along with other products, at our Flu Clinic, Monday October 24th at 6:30pm, and Monday November 28th at 6:30pm. I will also be administering the immune booster shot for patients at that time. Please call the office to register if you wish to attend. If you cannot attend and would like to still order the homeopathic flu alternative or receive the immune shot please call the office so alternative arrangements can be made.

• Homeopathics: Influenzinum and Thymoprotect; each taken 1X a week for 6 weeks
• Immune booster shot: an intramuscular injection of Pascoleucyn, a product that supports the immune system