In this day and age, and with the quality of life we enjoy in the United States, death from influenza is exceedingly rare. Those with compromised immune systems need to take greater caution to avoid contracting the flu, but everyone can fight or prevent the flu with the proper diet and supplementation. Additionally, contracting the virus naturally helps our bodies build up a stronger immunity to the disease than being vaccinated against it. The vaccine itself is not safe. As Dr. Mark Hyman states on his website, it contains:

•    Egg proteins: Including avian contaminant viruses. 
•    Formaldehyde: Known carcinogen.
•    Thimerosal: Mercury-based preservative (only in multi-dose vials). 
•    Other heavy metals such as aluminum: Known neurotoxin. 
•    Sugar: The essence of all inflammatory disease. 
•    Triton X100: A detergent.
•    Other additives known to cause allergic reactions.

Dr.  Hyman goes on to say, "The biggest controversy about the ingredients in the shot surrounds the use of the preservative thimerosal.  Thimerosal contains mercury.  Exposure to mercury leads to systemic health problems running the gamut from neurological dysfunction (memory loss, confusion, inability to concentrate) to depression, renal failure, skin troubles and gastrointestinal disturbances."

Hysteria in 2009 about H1N1 (Swine Flu) can be partially attributed to hype promoted by the media and by the companies that manufacture flu vaccines. The World Health Organization (WHO) officially rated the Swine Flu as a moderate, not severe influenza virus, and CDC statistics showed that adults with weakened immune systems between the ages of 30–50 were the most susceptible. In any case, it did not warrant any sort of panic in the general population. For more facts and data about vaccines and flu statistics, go to the National Vaccine Information Center website.

There are simple steps you can take to resist influenza and strengthen your immune system. Start with your diet: eliminate gluten and cow dairy, as well as refined sugar. Eat plenty of garlic and anti-oxidants from colorful organic fruits and veggies. Take your vitamins C, D, and Zinc. Go to bed by 10 p.m. and get enough sleep. Exercise regularly.

Other supplements that greatly increase immune response include Isatis, Elderberry Extract, Olive Leaf Extract, Astragalus Extract, Shiitake, Maitake, Reishi, Arabinogalactans, Probiotics, Scutellaria, Propolis, Coptis Chinensis, Hypericum, Licorice Root, Lomatium, Echinacea, Lemon Balm, Wild Indigo, Spilanthes, Lysine, and Pau D’Arco. Make an appointment with me so that I can determine which supplements are best for your immune system.