Elderberry, Flu, Prevention and Immunity

Thank you for your important question about the flu and developing immunity. There is a lot of confusion about the best preventative measures for the seasonal flu and the H1N1 flu. To that end, the flu vaccination offers temporary protection from specific strains of the influenza virus. There are hundreds of different viruses that can cause flu-like symptoms, and typically the three most common strains seen in the previous year are used to make the vaccine.
 
When you recover naturally to a given strain of the influenza virus you get natural and long-term immunity from that particular strain. To that end, if you have experienced the flu this year, you have developed antibodies to the current influenza virus. The antibodies, developed by the body when you have the flu, are stronger than the antibodies that result from a flu shot, and they will protect you for a longer time than a flu shot.
 
The flu vaccination was developed by the allopathic health care system to minimize the risk of contracting the influenza virus, and is designed to attack the virus, but results in the weakening of the immune system. Vaccinations prevent the body from naturally responding to external pathogens such as viruses and bacteria.  In contrast, those who maintain a strong healthy immune system will protect themselves naturally and build immunity from the adverse effects of the flu.
 
Additionally, when you’re exposed to a flu strain and naturally ward it off -- your entire immune system and anti-viral response will be stronger for fighting other viruses. By naturally strengthening your immune system through a healthy lifestyle and immune boosting supplements such as elderberry, you can be exposed to flu viruses and not get sick. The reason you don’t get sick is because you are able to mount an immune system response against the virus. Interestingly, through this process you create immune memory cells to help combat future viruses. Each time you’re exposed to a flu virus you’re creating more and more immunity.
 
Fostering a strong and healthy immune system will make a significant difference in the quality of your life. The immune system is the first line of defense when a virus threatens your body. When the immune system is strong, diseases from viruses can be warded off.  There are measurable things that can be done to nourish your immune system, so that you’re far less likely to get the seasonal flu and the H1N1 flu. In order to strengthen your immune system and stay healthy it is recommended that you follow these guidelines:
 
    •    Optimize your Vitamin D levels. Vitamin D has been shown to strengthen the immune system and offer protection against infections. In addition, it has been shown to maintain bone density and offer protection against cancer. It is estimated that 80% of Americans are deficient. However, keep in mind that Vitamin D is stored in the fat cells of the body and can reach toxic levels if taken indiscriminately. I recommend taking to your doctor about Vitamin D testing to determine the appropriate does.
 
    •    Eat an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables to boost your immune system. I recommend at least 5 servings a day.
 
    •    Exercise on a regular basis to keep your body strong and increase your white blood cell count.
 
    •    Avoid sugar, processed, refined and chemically contaminated foods, caffeine, and intoxicants, which weaken your immune functions.
 
    •    Drink filtered water. I recommend about 6-8 glasses per day.  Frequent sips of warm water throughout the day are better than occasional large drinks.

    •    Get plenty of sleep.
 
    •    Supplement with immune building nutrients such as elderberry, osha, zinc, selenium, Vitamin A, C, E, and garlic (antiviral properties).
 
    •    Increase your consumption of Omega – 3 fatty acids, which are critical for maintaining a healthy immune system. Some sources include Wild Alaskan Salmon, Ground Flax Seeds and Neptune Krill Oil (do not take Krill Oil if you’re allergic to shellfish, have a blood coagulation condition, or are taking anticoagulants.)
 
In sum, it my belief that our bodies have an amazing ability to stay healthy and strong with the proper nourishment. This includes not only physical nourishment, but nourishment on other levels including the emotional level. We can either strengthen or weaken our immune system based on the subtle messages we give our bodies.