Think twice before getting the Flu Shot

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After working a number of years at nursing homes and hospitals, it is not unusual to see doctors routinely writing orders for patient flu vaccines come fall and winter. It seems that this is the cure-all to prevent elders and those with chronic illness from suffering complications from the flu.  But is it really necessary? What are the risks involved? And, does the flu shot really work?

This post will review some information regarding the flu shot.

What researchers are finding

Even though the CDC recommends the vaccine to prevent the flu, citing stats that 70% to 90% are provided protection against the flu, recent studies and review by The Lancet suggest otherwise.  Epidemiologists are questioning those stats. For example, Tom Jefferson, researcher at the Cochrane Collaboration with headquarters in Britain has pointed out the results of several studies that confirm that there is insufficient evidence to indicate that flu vaccines reduce infection rates or mortality, even in the elderly.

The bottom line appears to be that there is a large question mark as to what degree the flu vaccines provides protection against the flu for the recipients of the vaccine.  It certainly isn't 70% to 90% as previously claimed. This is not to completely suggest that there is no protection, but there is reason to reconsider the facts, particularly as many take the flu vaccine with a false sense of security, which  can cause the patient to take unneccessary chances with her health.

In consideration of these facts, what can a patient do to protect herself from the flu?

How to protect yourself from the flu

The real key to protection against the flu and cold is to boost the immune system through health lifestyle habits, meaning eating health foods, reducing stress, exercise regularly, sleep in sufficient quantities, and getting moderate amounts of sunlight in order to receive the benefits of vitamin D protection.

Such foods include locally grown fruits and vegetables.  Avoid sugars and transfats- which are common in fast food restaurants, donuts, pastries, cookies, etc.  Cut down on meats Opt for wild caught fish-not the farm raised.  Such wild fish will bestow wonderful protection with the healthy fish oils: omega 3s 6s and 9s, which, in proper proportions, provide protection against cardiovascular disease and depression, along with protection against a host of other diseases.

What about supplements?

Speak with your health care practitioner about any additions or changes to your medication and supplement regimen.  But you might want to consider taking:

Vitamin C which is a potent antioxidant. It can also shorten the duration of colds and related illnesses.

Propolis - which is a broad spectrum antimicrobial
Goldensesal tea - which has been used for generations by naturalists to strengthen the immune system.
Vitamin A - another antioxidant that provides protection to the mucus membranes.

Sources:

"Flu vaccine efficacy: Time to revise public messages?"

Do Flu Vaccines Really Work? A Skeptic's View

SOS: Help for Moms when the Cold Season hits

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We're headed back into fall and winter again.  And, along with that come that come cold weather come colds, flu, coughs and fever.  What can health conscious moms do to protect their little ones from these common health ravages of cold weather?

Let's consider some important ways that we can deal with these troublesome ailments, naturally.

Eat all your vegetables

As moms we encourage our children to eat healthy to be big and strong.  But vegetables and fruits are also important in building up digestion and the immune system.  With inadequate digestion, the immune system can not do its job efficiently, leaving us susceptible to opportunistic bugs and viruses.   Most folks know now that good health starts in the gut! So, let's do everything in our power to strengthen our health by eating right.

Encourage your children to eat foods such as carrots and sweet potatoes, both are high in vitamin A which is important in healthy mucus membranes.  Garlic and onions are also good foods to fight away infections.  Garlic is a natural antibiotic.  Green and leafy vegetables are also high in a number of nutrients such as magnesium, calcium and antioxidants, which play a major role in fighting off disease.

Encourage your children to limit foods high in fats and sugar as these both can cause the body to accumulate mucus.

Healthful supplements

Cod liver oil is also gives the body a boost in fighting colds. It is high in essential fatty acids which are anti-inflammatories, which also helps the body battle disease.  It is also high in vitamin A, an antioxidant.

Vitamin C has been controversial in cold prevention, but it is known to help the body battle infection and can limit the length of a cold.It also strengthens the immune system.

Common sense practices

Encourage your children to wash hands frequently.   This is a number one practice to help halt the spread of disease transmission.  Also remind them to cover their mouths when coughing. 

If your child is sick or has a temperature over 101, keep her home.  The teacher will thank you.