Most who have i-vuma daily have not had problems with the flu, however, we would like to share some important pointers, before we enter into the Autumn and Winter months. None of us would like to get the flu, therefore, we want to share with you as much information as we can on Flu avoidance. There are many effective ways to prevent the flu and other flu-like illnesses, such as dietary interventions, making sure your vitamin D and Gut Flora are optimized, being more meticulous about washing your hands, getting enough exercise and sleep, and taking natural antibiotics like oil of oregano and garlic. It has been proven that what you eat, directly affects your health. According to CNN’s report, warning signs to look out for, indicating you may have a more serious case of the flu that warrants a trip to the hospital include: • • •
Feeling better, then suddenly having a relapse (this could indicate the viral flu infection is over, but that a bacterial infection has set in). Extreme lethargy Confusion
Avoiding a serious case of influenza is more about maintaining a healthy, well functioning immune system. By taking note of the following guidelines, you can help keep your immune system in optimal working order so that you're less likely to be infected to begin with or, if you do get sick with the flu, you are better prepared to move through it without complications and soon return to good health. Optimize Your Gut Flora. The bacteria in your gut have enormous control of your immune response. Avoid sugars and limit processed foods. Eat healthy fats like coconut oil, avocados, olives, olive oil, butter, eggs and nuts. Optimize your vitamin D levels. One of the best ways to avoid infections of ALL kinds. Ideally, you'll want to get all your vitamin D from sun exposure or a safe tanning bed, but as a last resort you can take an oral vitamin D3 supplement. According to the latest review by Carole Baggerly (Grassrootshealth.org), adults need about 8,000 IU's a day. Be sure to take vitamin K2 (dairy products, eggs, meat, soybeans) if you are taking high dose oral vitamin D as it has a powerful synergy and will help prevent any D toxicity. Avoid Sugar and Processed Foods. Sugar impairs the quality of your immune response almost immediately. It can kill off your beneficial bacteria and feed the pathogenic yeast and viruses. Be aware that sugar (typically in the form of high fructose corn syrup) is present in foods you may not suspect, like ketchup and fruit juice. Get Plenty of Rest. Just like it becomes harder for you to get your daily tasks done if you're tired, if your body is overly fatigued it will be harder for it to fight the flu. Have Effective Tools to Address Stress. We all face some stress every day, but if stress becomes overwhelming then your body will be less able to fight off the flu and other illness. Get Regular Exercise. When you exercise, you increase your circulation and your blood flow throughout your body. The components of your immune system are also better circulated, which means your immune system has a better chance of finding an illness before it spreads. Be sure to stay hydrated – drink plenty of fluids, especially water. However, it would be wise to radically reduce the intensity of your workouts if you are not well. No Peak Fitness exercises until you are better. Take a High-Quality Omega-3 Fats. Increase your intake of healthy and essential fats like the omega-3, which is crucial for maintaining health.