As we progress into winter with all of its various maladies, prevention is our first line of defense. It is said that “the best defense is a good offense” that is never so true as it is for the immune system.

Some people feel that their only hope of avoiding the flu is to get vaccinated. In truth, the best immunity is one that you create within your body by simple means. True immunity comes from within and is something you have control over. Although even with the best control measures you may still get sick, if you handle it properly, your immunity is much better for future exposures. This is key.

So, what can we do? First and foremost is to use good sanitation principles. Herd immunity was common for thousands of years. Whole communities/areas became immune to certain pathogens because of subtle exposures over time. This was also practiced in some cultures by intentionally exposing whole families to a virus or bacteria to stimulate an immune response. However, today, unless the other principles for a strong immune system are followed, this is not a great option. This is because we have acquired a weakened response to pathogens, by gross mismanagement when we do get sick. Since a little over 100 years ago, man has historically made the biggest impact on preventing widespread illness, by not passing it around. Use good sanitation principles.

The next important part of building a healthy immune system is controlling what we put in our mouths. Sugary drinks and foods, processed foods, and otherwise garbage foods weaken our immune system. By contrast, lots of vegetables, fruits, and proteins that are whole, keeping the nutrition intact, and not being sprayed with pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, etc. helps us to build strong, healthy resistance to everyday “bugs.”

Some people take whole food supplements to encourage a strong immune response, and herbal supplements to thwart that which has taken hold of their body. Synthetic vitamins can be weakening, while supplements made from foods and herbs can be helpful. When it comes to herbal supplements, it is best if you don’t take the same herb day after day for extended periods of time. Immune-enhancing herbs have a tendency to adapt in the body, no longer working after a time. Some are more short-lived than others, like goldenseal, which shouldn’t be taken for more than two weeks at a time in most cases. Doing a rotation is best. Take 4 immune-enhancing herbs such as Astragalus, Echinacea, an immune mushroom combo and maybe garlic and rotate them (ie: week one take Astragalus, week two take Echinacea, etc., repeating every month). An expert in this field is advised, especially for children.

Acupuncture is a great way of boosting immune health, and shortening the duration of an immune challenge. It is also used for aberrant immune responses such as auto-immune disorders. Getting adequate sleep, sufficient Vitamin D and other things are essential to immune health. Preventing illness by strengthening the immune response is the key to avoiding winter maladies.

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Holly Carling is a Doctor of Oriental Medicine, Licensed Acupuncturist, Doctor of Naturopathy, Clinical Nutritionist and Master Herbologist with nearly four decades of experience. She is currently accepting new patients and offers natural health care services and whole food nutritional supplements in her Coeur d’Alene clinic. Visit www.vitalhealthcda.com to learn more about her, view a list of upcoming health classes and read other informative articles. Carling can be reached at (208) 765-1994 and would be happy to answer any questions regarding this topic.