Stress:  Stress has varied presentations and effects on the human immune system.  The best way to summarize thirty years research into stress and immunity would really be you how your response to the stress makes a very big difference in how it affects your immunity.  Generally stress has negative effect on immunity; however some stressors are more damaging than others.  Keeping a healthy relationship to your own stressors (not feeling like a victim, talking about it, changing your surroundings, exercising etc.) is the best way to minimize any negative effect stress may have on your body.

Diet:  A few basic principles can guide healthy eating habits.  Sugar is a stressor on the immune system, so any excess sugars should be minimized in order to improve immune function.  Simple sugars and refined processed foods are the worst offenders, but all sugar intake should be limited.  In general lean protein sources, high fiber carbohydrate containing foods and lots of brightly colored vegetables offer the most nutrition per calorie, and the least likely negative effect on immunity and health.

Additionally, a diet supportive of proper GI flora balance (the bacteria that live in the GI tract and maintain digestive and immune function there) may have a great impact on your general immunity.  In general occasional supplementation with lactobacillus acidophilus, bifido bacteria and fructo-oligo saccharides (FOS) are enough to aid this portion of immunity.  Antibiotic use orally, chronic illnesses and stress can decrease these good bacteria, so supplementing after those events is recommended.

Vitamin D has known anti-viral properties and has been directly associated with fighting influenza. During an active infection extra vitamin D is required.  Supplementation for a few days after an illness can replenish the body stores of Vitamin D if the person had good levels prior to the illness.

As a wonderful alternative to the flu-vaccine, a Homeopathic Immune remedy (Engystol) has been shown to help the body’s ability to fight infections and viruses. As a natural approach to against the traditional flu-vaccine, Engystol is free of any viral particles or preservatives, making it safe for the elderly and children as well.

 Homeopathic Immune Booster is offered here, for only $35