INFLUENZA | FLU
Description
Body System
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Dietary & Other Supplements
1. Vitamin D3/K2: It supports your body in fighting off viruses by directly inhibiting their replication while also bringing down inflammation. It enhances the function of immune cells like T cells and macrophages, which is crucial for protecting against infections.
2. Zinc: Acting as a guardian, zinc reinforces natural tissue barriers, such as the respiratory epithelium, acting as a shield against pathogen invasion. This is pivotal for maintaining a robust immune system and redox balance.
3. Vitamin C: Beyond hastening recovery, this vitamin acts as a symptom-reliever and a robust supporter of your immune system's functionality.
4. Vitamin A: Operating as an immune system modulator, it steps up the production of antibodies, essential defenders against invaders.
5. Iodine: By boosting your body's defensive mechanisms, iodine becomes a valuable asset in the fight against infections.
6. Selenium: By empowering the immune response, selenium acts as a shield against potential infections.
7. Vitamin B Complex: Operating as a powerhouse, it not only fortifies the body's defense mechanisms but also sustains the necessary energy levels, a critical component for a resilient immune system.
8. Probiotics: These beneficial microorganisms not only ease the severity of symptoms but also amplify the overall effectiveness of the immune response.
9. Omega 3: Going beyond reducing inflammation, omega 3 may potentially hinder viral entry and overall enhance the immune system's capabilities.
10. Inositol: As a supporter of the immune system, inositol contributes to the body's overall defense mechanism.
Plant Extracts
1. Quercetin: This multitasker fights inflammation, eases symptoms, curtails harmful organisms, and acts as a zinc ionophore, enhancing the concentration of zinc within cells.
2. Bromelain: With its antiviral and anti-inflammatory prowess, bromelain also aids in the better absorption of quercetin.
3. EEpigallocatechin Gallate [EGCG]: A powerful agent against viruses, bacteria, and fungi, EGCg also plays the role of a zinc ionophore, upping cellular zinc levels.
4. Echinacea/Goldenseal: Echinacea alleviates cold and flu symptoms, while goldenseal's berberine fights infections from both bacteria and viruses.
5. Curcumin: Serving as an anti-inflammatory agent, it eases lung problems triggered by the influenza virus by blocking the NF-kB signaling pathway—a molecular route that orchestrates inflammatory responses in the body.
6. Boswellia Serrata: Possessing formidable anti-inflammatory properties, it inhibits 5-lipoxygenase—an enzyme crucial in initiating and sustaining the inflammatory process.
7. Garlic Extract: Exhibiting a preventive effect, garlic enhances the immune response and may act as a barrier against viral entry into cells.
8. Nutritional Yeast: Serving as a substitute for Vitamin B complex, this nutritional powerhouse not only fortifies the body's defense system but also ensures stable energy levels, both essential for maintaining optimal immune system functioning.
Natural Compounds
1. Colloidal Silver: Recognized for its versatile properties, colloidal silver serves as a treatment for various infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Its efficacy lies in its ability to combat a broad spectrum of microbial threats.
Complementary & Alternative Treatments
No replicated and convincing research studies are available, and there is no anecdotal evidence supporting the effectiveness of this method.
Symptoms & Signs
Causes
Viral Infection
Books That You May Want To Read
How Nutrients Function
Antioxidants: Antioxidants protect cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular ailments. They safeguard DNA integrity, slow down aging processes, and support overall cellular health.
Enzymes and Coenzymes: Enzymes catalyze biochemical reactions, while coenzymes assist in these processes by binding temporarily to enzymes. Together, they regulate digestion, energy production, immune responses, and various metabolic pathways.
Fruit Extracts: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, fruit extracts offer numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and immune-boosting properties. They also support digestive health and contribute to overall well-being.
Herbal Extracts: Herbal extracts contain bioactive compounds with various medicinal properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. They have been used traditionally to support digestion, immunity, and overall health.
Minerals: Minerals are essential for various physiological functions, including bone health, nerve transmission, and enzyme activity. They support overall health by ensuring proper cellular function and metabolic processes.
Other Nutrients: Other nutrients encompass a wide array of essential compounds crucial for various physiological functions. This category includes neurotransmitters and their precursors, which facilitate nerve signaling and are vital for central nervous system function. Additionally, naturally occurring structural components aid in tissue repair and maintenance, ensuring optimal bodily function. Hormones and their precursors regulate numerous physiological processes, including metabolism, growth, and reproduction. Furthermore, naturally occurring chemicals and metals play pivotal roles in enzymatic reactions, immune function, and overall health maintenance.
Probiotics: Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer health benefits when consumed. They support gut health, immune function, and oral hygiene by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibiting the growth of harmful pathogens.
Vitamins: Vitamins are essential micronutrients that play diverse roles in supporting cellular processes, immune function, and overall health. They must be obtained through diet or supplementation to ensure proper bodily function.
Podcast Episodes To Listen To
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Lectures To Learn From
Functional Lab Tests That You Might Consider
References
Things To Do
It is best to support the recovery from influenza by doing the following:
consuming a whole-foods-based diet consisting of fresh vegetables, fruits, meat, fish, whole grains, legumes, and healthy fats.
eating foods high in vitamin C, such as tomatoes, bell peppers, cruciferous vegetables, citrus fruits, strawberries, etc.
incorporating foods rich in zinc, such as shellfish, meat, nuts, seeds, whole grains, etc.
Eat foods containing vitamin A, such as liver, eggs, leafy greens, red bell peppers, etc.
Consume foods rich in vitamin B, such as liver, peas, whole grains, nuts, etc.
Include soups and broths in your diet.
Eat probiotic and prebiotic foods, which will strengthen your gut microbiome and your immune system.
Add garlic, onions, ginger, and turmeric to your diet. They help boost the immune system.
Include herbs that have expectorant properties to relieve productive coughs, such as thyme or oregano.
Drink green tea. It contains epigallocatechin-3-gallate [EGCG], which increases the absorption of zinc.
Drink lukewarm water with lemon and honey. It can soothe the throat and help the cough.
stay hydrated. Drink quality mineral water, herbal teas, and fresh vegetable juices.
Furthermore, do the following:
Sleep as much as you need. Make sure to sleep with your head elevated.
Ventilate your space frequently. Make use of air purifiers, humidifiers, or dehumidifiers to optimize the air quality in your home.
Wash your hands frequently. Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.
For a stuffy nose, make a steam bath.
If you are able to handle it, let the fever run its course. It will help the body fight off the virus faster.
For a sore throat, try saltwater gargles, chamomile gargles, or ginger root tea gargles. Drinking lukewarm lemon water with honey can soothe the throat.
Change your toothbrush. It harbors viruses and bacteria.
Use essential oil-based hand and surface sanitizers.
Things To Avoid
The following foods and ingredients do not support influenza recovery:
processed, junk, and fast foods. They have a negative impact on metabolic and immune health.
Greasy and fried foods, which are high in AGEs, contribute to inflammation and excess mucus production.
sugar, candy, desserts, and sweetened beverages. Sugar is inflammatory and affects the immune system.
alcohol, caffeinated drinks, and carbonated beverages.
dairy products. They are mucus-forming.
food preservatives, such as tertiary butylhydroquinone [TBHQ], also known as E319, which makes the flu symptoms worse.
Flavor enhancers, such as MSG, impair immune function.
Food dyes, which are petroleum-derived substances, can cause harm to human health.
Furthermore, avoid the following:
aspirin, which is not recommended for viral infections.
excessive physical activity. Leave the daily chores to others while you are sick.
going outside, unless you need to see a doctor.
smoking, which will further impair your respiration, add to the inflammation, and decrease immune function.
antibiotics. Antibiotics do not treat viral infections.
traditional hand sanitizers. They contain harmful ingredients. Use soap or essential oil-based sanitizers instead.