| Building Up for Cold and Flu Season |
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Building Up for Cold and Flu Season
The Pathogenic theory of medicine, also known as the germ theory of disease is the cornerstone of modern
medicine and suggests that microorganisms cause disease. However, this theory falls short without taking into
account a properly functioning immune system. The immune system defends our bodies from foreign invaders
such as bacteria and viruses. The skin itself works as a barrier to keep pathogens at bay. If these invaders do
make there way into the body via channels such as the respiratory system specialized cells are deployed to
destroy them.
It is estimated that 95% of people exposed to a cold virus become infected, but only 75% show symptoms.
These viruses take advantage of a weakened immune system, which produce complications associated with the
virus such as ear infections and/or sinus infections. Once the body has been infected with a cold virus it
develops immunity to that particular strain. However, viruses mutate quickly so therefore the next cold may be a
different strain of the original virus, which the body has not yet created antibodies to defend against.
Symptoms that arise as a result of a cold or flu are misconstrued as being an effect of the invader itself.
However, these symptoms arise in response to the battle being waged by our immune system against these
predators. Other symptoms associated with the common cold such as sneezing, coughing or swollen glands are
the bodies attempt to filter out and eliminate the pathogens via their route of entry. To suppress these
symptoms is to effectively interfere with the body’s own eliminative process.
The key to avoiding a cold or flu is prevention. Prepare the body to function as it was designed by giving it the
essential nutrients it needs to do the job.
Despite our attempts to protect our bodies from pathogens there may actually be benefits to acute illnesses.
Without the occasional cold some people in our very active and very stressful society might never find an excuse
to take a break.
When symptoms do arise there are no drugs that are effective against the common cold. Antibiotics only seek
to destroy bacteria and are completely ineffective against a cold virus. Because a cold is viral antibacterial soaps
are not any more effective than regular soap. However, there are things that can be done to help restore the
body to its normal state of homeostasis.
The body is a complex and marvelous creation designed for self-repair if given a favorable environment. In order
for the immune system to do its job and function properly it is our responsibility to insure that there is a source
of clean fuel available. If this fuel is available the body will continue to mount a defense against any invaders that
may seek to harm or take residence in our bodies.
© Natalie Vickery, 2007
The Pathogenic theory of medicine, also known as the germ theory of disease is the cornerstone of modern
medicine and suggests that microorganisms cause disease. However, this theory falls short without taking into
account a properly functioning immune system. The immune system defends our bodies from foreign invaders
such as bacteria and viruses. The skin itself works as a barrier to keep pathogens at bay. If these invaders do
make there way into the body via channels such as the respiratory system specialized cells are deployed to
destroy them.
It is estimated that 95% of people exposed to a cold virus become infected, but only 75% show symptoms.
These viruses take advantage of a weakened immune system, which produce complications associated with the
virus such as ear infections and/or sinus infections. Once the body has been infected with a cold virus it
develops immunity to that particular strain. However, viruses mutate quickly so therefore the next cold may be a
different strain of the original virus, which the body has not yet created antibodies to defend against.
Symptoms that arise as a result of a cold or flu are misconstrued as being an effect of the invader itself.
However, these symptoms arise in response to the battle being waged by our immune system against these
predators. Other symptoms associated with the common cold such as sneezing, coughing or swollen glands are
the bodies attempt to filter out and eliminate the pathogens via their route of entry. To suppress these
symptoms is to effectively interfere with the body’s own eliminative process.
The key to avoiding a cold or flu is prevention. Prepare the body to function as it was designed by giving it the
essential nutrients it needs to do the job.
- Vitamins/minerals are nutrients, which are essential for all metabolic processes. Eating a diet that is high
in vitamins and minerals is the first line of defense. Avoid refined sugar as it creates bacteria in the body
and weakens the immune system. - Adequate sleep insures that the body has time to regenerate and restore natural processes.
- Exercise is also essential to building a healthy immune system.
- Drink at least 64 ounces of water each day.
- Try to relax and de-stress. Too much stress lowers the body’s natural immunities.
- Wash hands frequently and try to avoid contact with the eyes and nose.
Despite our attempts to protect our bodies from pathogens there may actually be benefits to acute illnesses.
Without the occasional cold some people in our very active and very stressful society might never find an excuse
to take a break.
When symptoms do arise there are no drugs that are effective against the common cold. Antibiotics only seek
to destroy bacteria and are completely ineffective against a cold virus. Because a cold is viral antibacterial soaps
are not any more effective than regular soap. However, there are things that can be done to help restore the
body to its normal state of homeostasis.
- Garlic has often been called “poor man’s penicillin”, and is both antiviral and antibacterial in nature.
- Zinc lozenges: Several studies have shown that taking zinc lozenges beginning within the first 24 hours
of the onset of a cold will shorten its duration by about 50%. - Echinacea is a mild natural antibiotic and has a stimulating effect on the body's immune defenses. It is
best taken at the onset of symptoms and can protect against staph and strep infections and help relieve
swollen lymph nodes. - Elderberries are rich in vitamins A and C and an effective remedy for relieving coughs, treating sinus
congestion, and reducing the pain and swelling of a sore throat. - Goldenseal has antibacterial properties and is a potent remedy for disorders affecting mucous
membranes. Goldenseal is valuable in fighting sinus and lung congestion, sore throats, swollen lymph
nodes, and fever. - Vitamin C has natural antihistamine properties, aids in neutralizing pollutants, is extremely high in
antioxidants and helps support the immune system. - Essential Oils have powerful antibacterial and antiviral properties when applied topically to the skin.
Essential oils of basil, eucalyptus, peppermint, and pine help to ease nasal congestion. One particular
blend, which is rather effective combines wintergreen oil, menthol, camphor, clove, eucalyptus and lavender
essential oils.
The body is a complex and marvelous creation designed for self-repair if given a favorable environment. In order
for the immune system to do its job and function properly it is our responsibility to insure that there is a source
of clean fuel available. If this fuel is available the body will continue to mount a defense against any invaders that
may seek to harm or take residence in our bodies.
© Natalie Vickery, 2007
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