Vaccines were once thought to be the solution to infectious diseases of all kinds. However, many medical professionals are increasingly concerned about the risks of vaccinations, both immediate and long-term. Still, the idea of a quick fix that requires very little effort is attractive to most people.
The idea behind vaccination is to stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies against particular viruses or bacteria. A vaccine is not a "cure" for a disease. Sometimes a vaccine even causes the very disease it is supposed to protect against. Yet people across the country are lining up for their flu shots, believing they are doing the best for themselves and their children.
During every epidemic there are people who do not succumb to illness. This has been true throughout history or the human race would not have survived! Science has made great progress in identifying the numerous defenses the human body employs in fighting off disease-causing pathogens and sustaining health.
There are a number of ways to strengthen the immune system without the use of vaccines.
- Optimal nutrition: make sure your body has the raw materials it needs to fight infection. Adequate vitamin D levels, Vitamin C, Bioflavanoids, zinc, CoQ10 and Vitamin A are all essential for immune function.
- Manage stress: when stress hormones are high the immune system is temporarily depressed. Exercising, meditating and laughing are all proven stress reducers.
- Examine your beliefs: studies have shown that the mind is very powerful and a belief in wellness can help to create a strong immune system, whereas a belief in illness will suppress the immune response
- Practice good hygiene habits: hand washing, covering sneezes, and keeping unwashed hands away from face can reduce the number of pathogens entering the body and therefore reduce the load on the immune system.
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