Fall Immune Support

Typically in the middle to end of September, or second to fourth week of school, the colds begin.  There are several reasons for this shift in health:  less sunlight, more stress, increased time spent indoors, detoxing/purging of summer indulgences, drop in vitamin D, seasonal allergies, grieving change and busier routines.  It was chilly this morning!

Our bodies are intelligent and when we think about symptoms happening for us not to us, it shifts our mindset about our health and healing.  Kids, for example, are still building their immune systems so their strongest defence is to stop "germs/toxins" from entering the body, which is why they produce a ton of mucus to trap things at the door.

Of course, being under the weather can be incredibly inconvenient, and we don't want to be sidelined for too long or sick all of the time.  When these things happen, it's an indication of deeper imbalances and lowered vitality.  Things like nutrient deficiencies, not enough sleep, busy lives, too much screentime, not moving enough, and eating poorly all play a role in immune depletion.  What this means is that adrenal function, gut health, liver function, emotions, the nervous system, lymphatics, and social connections all need attention.  

Any time I've ever had cold symptoms I can look back and reflect on what led me to being susceptible or rundown.  I may have been burning the candle at both ends, short on sleep, not eating as well, and more stressed than usual (or after resolution of a stressful time is even more common, actually).

Let's look at immune support from three angles: prevention, symptoms, and deeper healing.  If you've been with me for awhile, this may serve as a gentle reminder as the seasons change.  If this is brand new to you, I'm happy to help you design your individualized protocol.


Preventative Supports

• Food
  - maintain balanced nutrition with protein, oils, and fibre (veggies)
  - as the days get cooler switch to more cooked foods instead of raw (soup season is near!)
  - eat less sugar
  - use whole foods ingredients and cook mostly at home
  - choose seasonal produce
  - include warming foods like garlic and ginger
  - fermented foods like sauerkraut & pickles
  
  
• Fresh Air
  - step outside for lunch & break time, and enjoy evening walks (capture red light)
  - consider air purifiers or air purifying house plants
  - open windows when you can in your car and your home
  - avoid artificial fragrances like from candles, air fresheners, and detergents
  - wrap your kidneys or keep your torso warm to avoid extra stress on your body
  
  
• Move Your Lymph -> to get the immune system pumping
  - any movement: walking, mini trampoline, workouts, dancing
  - dry skin brushing
  - sauna and/or cold plunge, or alternating contrast showers
  
  
• Detox Liver & Lungs -> to reduce the need for purging debris
  - castor oil packs (love these! it's a good time to bring them back into your routine)
  - herbal and homeopathic remedies like milk thistle and the Pascoe Detox Kit
  
  
• Balanced Living
  - schedule time for work and play
  - take care of yourself as much as you do everyone else
  - protect your peace
  - prioritize sleep
  - plan your next vacation (even if it's months away)
  
  
• Herbs, Homeopathics & Vitamins
  - Herbs:  Elderberry, St Francis Deep Immune (for kids or adults)
  - Vitamins & Supplements:  Cod liver oil, D, C, NAC, Probiotics (its time to adjust your dosages now that the seasons are changing)
  - Homeopathics:  Homeocokinum, Oscillococcinum, or Bio 93, 88 and 87 dosed weekly

Managing Symptoms

• Go to Bed
  - your body is asking for rest
  - read more about Fevers here
  
  
• Food
  - some sicknesses require fasting and some not, either way stay hydrated
  - keep bone broth soup in the freezer to be prepared (in case you don't feel like cooking)
  - avoid sugar (crashes white blood cells) and dairy (phlegm)
  
  
• Therapeutics
  - this will vary a lot depending on the presentation of symptoms, your best support is to book an Acute Visit where we can have a chat and design a plan for you
  - keep on hand:  echinacea, oregano oil, eucalyptus essential oil or Olbus inhaler, Dr Reckeweg R1, honey, colloidal silver
  - I'm also a big fan of:  Acute Immune (Signature supplements), Bio 87, 88 & 93, Resp-FX (Alpha Science), Nin Jiom cough syrup  (all at the clinic)
  
  
• Magic Socks
  - I always get a funny look when I suggest this one, but it can work very well
  - take a thin pair of socks and wet with cold water, wring out and put on feet, then cover with a thick pair of wool or cotton socks and go to bed, socks will be dry in the morning
  - alternatively, Vicks or a natural version on the feet works well too
  - I have more information on home remedies here
  
  

Deeper Healing

• Support organ and gland function in between sicknesses
  - gut function, microbiome, liver, lungs, adrenals can all be important variables
  
  
• Consider long term imbalances in your lifestyle
  - sleep schedules, lack of movement, nutrition, stress levels, over-giving, lack of social connections, boundaries
  
  
• Return to vitality
  - additional measures may be needed to get back on track after not feeling well
  - things like mushrooms and acupuncture are excellent for restoring energy levels
  
  
• Monitor exposures & chronic infections
  - avoid chemicals when possible by choosing 'cleaner' beauty products, toothpaste, and fewer plastics
  - assess for mold, EBV (history of Mono), lyme
  
  -> the goal is to provide your body with what it needs to thrive, and remove any obstacles to healing 

You don't have to dread the change in season when you are prepared and supported.  Colds and occasional sicknesses are needed to promote a healthy immune system.  It's common for patients to reach out and book an Acute Visit (by phone, video or in person) at the first onset of symptoms, to design a preparation plan, or to get over the hump after feeling unwell.
And Heads up!

There's construction at the corner of First and Fead Streets.  While our laneway is clear, there may be some additional traffic delays.  Please plan for a possible delay when you are traveling to your appointments.  Also, Third Avenue is closed for construction.

I'll be out of the office beginning September 19th and returning September 29th, but Kerry will be in to help you with booking appointments and supplement refills.  I look forward to seeing you before and after that!


Wishing you wellness,
Dr Christa