The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates there have been at least 29 million flu illnesses in the U.S. this season with more than 100 child deaths, which is the worst in a decade. If you’re still on the fence about getting the notoriously unpredictable flu shot, Dr. Suneil Jain with Rejuvena Health & Aesthetics, recommends plenty of natural options to help fight the flu besides the obvious tips to wash your hands, cover your mouth, eat healthy, control stress and exercise.
Here are Dr. Jain’s options:
Vitamin C IV Drips: These drips work by providing your body with a direct infusion of vitamins and minerals. Receiving high doses of vitamins through an IV allows the nutrients to bypass the digestive system for a quicker shot of vitality. There are various combinations to help combat whatever symptoms you might be feeling.
Ozone Therapy: This combination treatment of autohemotherapy and UV light helps to reduce chemical stress through medical ozone and oxygen to stimulate the production of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, two powerful enzymes that protect us from free radical damage and oxidative stress.
Up Your Zinc Intake: Zinc is a mineral important for your immune system because the nutrient helps your body make germ-fighting white blood cells. This means zinc can effectively slow down how fast the flu virus multiplies in your body. Take a zinc supplement during flu season or eat foods that are high in the mineral like lentils, chickpeas, beans, nuts and seeds.
Mushroom Complex: Reishi, Maitake, Agaricus and Coriolus mushrooms help boost the immune system by increasing the number of macrophages and T-cells which can treat viruses.
High Dose Vitamin A Therapy: Boosts overall immune system. Must be supervised by a knowledgeable health care provider.
Black Elderberry: Elderberry is the dark purple berry from the European elder tree. The berries are used to make medicine. This immune-supporting herbal supplement can help you recover faster, and it tastes good too!
Add Garlic: Garlic contains allicin, a compound with antiviral effects. Eat two raw cloves a day, chopped or crushed to release the compound. To preserve allicin’s beneficial effects, toss into your cooking at the very last minute.
Dr. Suneil Jain, NMD is a naturopathic physician and the founder& owner of Rejuvena Health & Aesthetics. Rejuvena is in North Scottsdale and is one of the leading practices in the United States specializing in wellness and healthy aging. Dr. Jain bridges the traditional tenets of naturopathic medicine with modern advances in aesthetic medicine to provide his patients with a comprehensive plan to begin their rejuvenation and take responsibility of their health. To learn more, visit http://www.werejuvenate.com or call 480-551-9000.
