Boost immunity against the flu and infections

Wear respiratory masks, such as an N95 mask, in places where there may be many infected people — such as work, school or hospitals.

by Dr. Theo Christodoulakis — 

Opportunistic infections are those infections that find the opportunity to invade the host, such as the bodies of individuals who have compromised or run-down immune systems.

Boosting the immune system is a multi-faceted approach that should include reducing the stress of an individual, increasing proper nutrition and supplementation, getting adequate rest and employing reasonable prevention techniques.

Recently in the news there has been information about how the swine flu, and previously the avian flu, has made people in the United States and other countries susceptible to those viruses.

Prevention is a key factor that must be practiced by anyone concerned about their health. The following are ways to prevent a possible infection with the flu or other opportunist infections:

• Avoid places where you see or hear that people are sick or coughing.
• Wear respiratory masks, such as an N95 mask, in places where there may be many infected people — such as work, school or hospitals.
• Eat well-balanced meals and consume adequate fluids. Avoid diets that deprive your body of necessary nutrients, vitamins and minerals.
• Try to relax and maintain a positive, happy and worry-free attitude to help keep your immune system at optimal levels.
• Take a good multivitamin and an herbal supplement. Ask your physician for recommendations.
• Myers intravenous therapy is an excellent way to boost your immune system with the necessary vitamins and minerals that the body needs to fight infections. The late John Myers, M.D., used this intravenous vitamin-and-mineral formula for the treatment of a wide range of clinical conditions, including boosting immunity.

Fever, fatigue, cough, lymphadenopathy, headaches and muscle aches can signal the onset of flu. You should see a physician who can determine if you need antiviral medications based on your symptoms and medical history. There are several anti-viral medications available that can help people infected with the swine flu or other types of flu or viral infections.

Health is of paramount importance, and maintaining it can be easily incorporated into your lifestyle with just a few basic steps.

Dr. Theo Christodoulakis is a licensed naturopathic medical doctor who practices integrative and preventative care in Chandler, Ariz. www.onegooddoctor.com or 480-857-7528.

Reprinted from AzNetNews, Volume 28, Number  3, Jun/July 2009.