I wanted to share with all of you the three dietary supplements that I feel make the biggest impact when it comes to fighting off infection each winter. This is in addition to a good night’s sleep, whole food dietary choices and regular exercise.
1. Juice Plus: This is a whole food based nutritional product made by juicing a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, then concentrating the juices into powders. It is available in capsules or chewables. My 4 year old son and I have taken this product for about one year and I have been very impressed with the reduction in colds, flu, sinus infections, etc. that are typical with a young child. In fact, we have not been sick at all during the time we have taken Juice Plus. I also like the fact that numerous clinical studies have been done on Juice Plus which have been published in major medical journals showing that the product also:
1. Delivers key antioxidants and other phytonutrients that are absorbed by the body
2. Reduces oxidative stress
3. Helps protect DNA
4. Supports cardiovascular wellness
5. Supports healthy skin and gums
2. Homeopathic Influenzinum: Many of you are familiar with this item as I have offered it several years in a row as an alternative to the flu vaccine. Influenzinum is a homeopathic (diluted and potentized) form of this year’s flu strains. It is taken orally on a schedule starting in October through the flu season. I have found it very effective at preventing the flu when taken as directed and is safe for all ages. I expect this year’s Influenzinum to arrive in the next week or two.
3. Vitamin D: The research on Vitamin D is overwhelmingly in support of its use as an immune supportive agent. Not only do we see reductions in hospital-acquired infections when blood levels of Vitamin D are sufficient, but also decreased risk of death from many cancers. In my practice, blood levels of Vitamin D are low across the board unless one is taking a Vitamin D supplement. Bottom line: If you are not taking Vitamin D already, start now. An average dose for adults is 1,000 -2,000 IU daily of the Vitamin D3 form, taken with food. Some may need higher doses which would be determined by a blood test.