Now that President Obama has declared swine flu a state of emergency, people need to take a vested interest in how they can keep themselves disease-free. It's, in fact, easier than we realize. Disease occurs as a result of a build-up of toxins and other undesirable pollutants in the body. Yet, what we eat will determine how filthy our insides do become. The more whole foods we eat, the fewer contaminates will interfere with our immune system or adversely affect us. Thus, while canned vegetables are indeed better than not eating vegetables at all, it's important to be mindful of the preservatives keeping these vegetables fresh. These and other processed foods are often void of nutritious properties, or are very scaled down of the original nutrients so beneficial to everyone. Fresh green vegetables are an excellent source for ridding the body of toxins and other free radicals that lead to disease. Cruciferous vegetables have a wonderful reputation for eliminating toxins, such as cauliflower, broccoli and brussel sprouts, among others. Another wonderful component for nourishing the body, building immunity and minimizing free radicals are Omega3 fatty acids. These are found in salmon, tuna, almonds, feta cheese, walnuts and legumes, among other foods. Some grocers carry eggs that were laid by hens fed Omega3-rich grain, thus providing 225 mc of Omega3 in every egg.
Supplementing the diet is another strategy for building immunity and warding off swine flu and other illness, especially during flu season. Some popular ones include Elderberry, Enchinea, and Colostrum. Elderberry provides multiple antioxidants, which help eliminate free radicals, as does Enchinea. Colostrum is found in mother's milk and builds immunity. This stabilizing force also enhances energy, and helps metabolism work more effectively. Back in the 1918 pandemic, many people successfully treated their symptoms using Dandelion Root. In fact, European settlers brought the dandelion to the New World, having recognized the importance of its curative properties. Many parallels can be drawn between this pandemic and the present swine flu. Dandelion Root is indeed strengthened when Fennel is also included. All of these can be found inexpensively at Vitacost, an online supplier of natural supplements.
No one's diet is perfect and it's understood that we all are not above the fray of eating things that aren't as healthy for us. Since this varies widely from one individual to the next, it's important to develop strategies that will mitigate or diffuse the presence of less healthy foods. For instance, when one consumes alcohol, their magnesium levels drop considerably. A method to mitigate this is two-fold: eat magnesium-rich foods prior to having alcohol, and, especially for women, have folic acid prior. Since alcohol consumption has been linked to rising levels in breast cancer, increasing one's folic acid can in fact mitigate the problem somewhat. Spinach has wonderful amounts of both, magnesium and folic acid. It also has a good proportion of zinc, which helps both, magnesium and folic acid work more effectively. Seaweed is also rich in trace minerals such as magnesium, and can provide similar benefit.
The most critical thing we can do for our bodies during flu season is to nourish it with whole foods and grains. While the costs involved are somewhat higher, such nutritional patterns will also see a decrease in the need for doctors' visits and medications. A little long-term planning goes a long way to ensuring good health and a more well adjusted mindset.
This article is not meant to serve as medical advice. Please consult a naturopath for appropriate treatment of disease and other chronic conditions.
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