The Flu, Part 2

Last week we talked about the main cause of catching the flu. An immune system that is not working to the best of it's ability can almost guarantee an illness from germs and viruses. The main idea in preventing the flu is to build and improve immune system function. The following compilation lists practices that strengthen the immune system. First, make sure that you get enough sleep. The immune system repairs itself, regenerates and functions better when one has enough sleep. 8 hrs or more is best. Stress levels have a negative impact on immune system health, the more stressed you are the more worn out you are. Chronic stress is one of the biggest causes of illness in mankind. Manage stress with meditation, deep breathing and exercise. Speaking of exercise, exercise causes chemical reactions in the body that strengthen the immune system. Typically, people who exercise regularly get sick less often and recover faster. Avoid sugar. Sugar weakens the immune system. A high in sugar snack or drink can actually lower immune system function immediately. Drink plenty of water. Water hydrates all of the cells in the body, keeping them healthy. 8 glasses of 8 ounces of water a day. Eat right. Poor nutrition is the main contributor of low immune levels. Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables. Limit or eliminate fried foods, trans-fats and high fructose corn syrup. Eat a diet high in fiber and low in refined carbohydrates. The immune system is controlled by the nervous system. When the nervous system is free of interference, the body is much healthier. Monthly chiropractic spinal adjustments improves nerve flow from the spinal joints and helps the body to work better. Lastly, wash your hands often. I know we said that germs by themselves do not cause the flu, but if your immune system is below par, washing hands often is a good form of protection.

Thought for the Week: "My illness is due to my doctor's insistence that I drink milk, a whitish fluid they force down helpless babies."

---- W. C. Fields US actor (1880 - 1946)

Chiropractic Thought for the Week: "Dear Friends, I am glad to have this opportunity to again share my thoughts on the role doctors
of chiropractic play in the American health care system. As I have said before, doctors of chiropractic play an important role in our health care system, and my commitment to you and your patients remains strong. As I have said, I believe steps should be taken to acknowledge the important care provided by doctors of chiropractic. We need to knock down unreasonable barriers of access and discriminatory insurance coverage so Americans in need of quality chiropractic care can access it without difficulty." -------- President Elect, Barack OBama