Already people are coming down with fall colds. Could this have been prevented for those who have succumbed? In many cases the answer is yes.

If you have built a strong immune system you will fare  better than those who haven’t prepared. For those with small children it is doubly important to keep your system strong since you are exposed to many pathogens as your child builds his or her immunity.

 What causes reduced immunity?

There are many causes for reduced immunity, but some of the more common causes are:
•Inadequate diet especially consumption of sweet sugary foods can impair immunity.
•Lack of antioxidant foods like berries, beans, walnuts, pecans and apples can reduce immunity.
•Chronic stress is a big factor in reduced immunity.
•Lack of good intestinal flora.
•Inadequate sleep and rest.

Now is the best time to build your immunity for fall and the coming winter months. Wouldn’t you rather prevent the illness instead of looking for relief once you’ve gotten sick?

What are some good ways to do this?
•Sleep more. Now that the days are getting shorter and the nights longer it is a natural time for more sleep.
•Eat seasonally, that is to say eat what you find in the farmer’s markets now, apples, pears, squash, nuts.
•Oranges are a good source of vitamin C an immune boosting antioxidant vitamin. Kiwis and broccoli also contain high amounts. Make sure you eat the whole orange fruit however, not the juice as the juice is high in natural sugar in its concentrated form.
•Foods that are high in zinc can also be helpful such as shrimp, kidney beans and pumpkin seeds.
•The mushrooms shitake, maitake and reishi are also known immune boosters.
•As the weather starts to cool off make sure you stay warm. Keep your feet and neck warm.
•Find ways to manage your stress with exercise, meditation, yoga or acupuncture.
•Take immune boosting herbs, supplements and probiotics to give your body extra support.I can give specific recommendations during your visit.
•Get acupuncture to stimulate your immune response. I recommend four weekly treatments to jump start your immunity.
This is an excellent way to build a strong foundation for the coming months.

You may reach me at 310-367-1564.