How to Prevent H1N1 Naturally

Having been approved by Health Canada, the H1N1 vaccine is now being distributed across Canada to hospitals, doctors’ offices and immunization clinics. Regardless of whether or not you decide to receive the influenza vaccine there’s no arguing that strengthening your immune system is beneficial to help you fight off the virus. Not only can a stronger immune system help prevent contracting the flu, but if you do get sick, a stronger immune system may help lesson the severity and duration of your symptoms. This is where natural medicine excels.

Here are a few basic, yet effective things you can do on your own:

Clean Hands
You’ve probably heard this again and again, but for good reason. Cleaning your hands properly is one of the best ways to avoid spreading germs. By “properly” I mean at least 20 seconds of scrubbing with soap and hot water or the use of an alcohol based sanitizer (60% alcohol or greater). Sneezing or coughing into your sleeve or a tissue will help keep your hands clean.

Clean Diet
A diet that is high in fruits and vegetables and low in processed and sugary foods supports the immune system. Foods high in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, are especially beneficial. Excellent sources of vitamin C include bell peppers, parsley, broccoli, cauliflower, lemon juice and romaine lettuce.

Clean Environment
Probably a good idea to disinfectant the most commonly used surfaces (doorknobs, TV remote, phone, etc.); however I’m actually referring more to the environment within our bodies. Our body has natural defense barriers – our mucous membranes, such as the lining in our noses. To do their job they need to be moist as the moisture prevents pathogens from adhering to the mucous membranes. If you work or live in a dry environment consider using a humidifier. Drinking plenty of water – 1.5 to 2 liters per day – will help keep your body hydrated from the inside.

Clean Mind
Stress, or rather our response to stress, impacts our immune system. Stress is unavoidable, but getting a good night’s sleep and using simple techniques such as deep breathing exercises and journaling can go a long way in helping you deal better with the stress.

Here are some more specific natural therapies you may wish to incorporate into your flu prevention plan with the help of your Naturopathic doctor:

Garlic
Garlic’s antiviral properties are well documented. Cook liberally with it.
Prescription: eat 1 to 2 raw cloves per day

Ginger + Lemon Tea
Both ginger and lemon have antimicrobial properties. Add 1 tsp of grated ginger to a cup of boiling water and steep for 5 minutes. Add the juice of ¼ fresh lemon.
Prescription: 1 to 2 cups per day

Antiviral and Adaptogenic Herbs
I recommend consulting with your doctor to find the right combination for you. Elderberry or echinacea teas are easy to start with. Adaptogens help to balance the immune system and include herbs such as Siberian ginseng and Astragalus. Medicinal mushrooms, such as Shiitake and Coriolus versicolor also have excellent microbe fighting abilities.

Probiotics
The largest part of our immune system is actually located within our gut. Probiotics help to replenish the healthy bacteria lining our gut, thereby supporting our immune system. There are many different strains available so work with your naturopathic doctor to find the right high quality product for you.

Essential Fatty Acids and Vitamins
Deficiencies of vitamins and essential fatty acids can lead to a depressed immune system. Ensure that you are getting sufficient amounts in your diet and determine the possible need to supplement these nutrients.

Hydrotherapy
Water has many healing properties and techniques like dry skin brushing, contrast showers and constitutional hydrotherapy can improve lymphatic circulation and strengthen the immune system.

Homeopathics
Homeopathy has a long history of successfully managing pandemics. Remedies like Influenzinum, Oscillococcinum® and Mucococcinum® can be taken preventatively and at the first sign of flu symptoms. However, your best option is to be treated with your constitutional remedy or “best match” according to your acute symptoms. Therefore, it is wise to consult a licensed Naturopath or Homeopath who can take your case and prescribe the most appropriate remedy for you.

Above all, make your health a priority. Take a pro-active approach and book an appointment with your doctor to put together a flu prevention treatment plan that is best for you.

If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms you should immediately contact your health care provider, including your Naturopathic Doctor (ND), or Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000. Do not leave your home if possible until you have spoken to your health care provider or a Telehealth nurse. Visit the Emergency Room if you have severe symptoms.