Better Nutrition January 2020

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2Get more sunshine. When skin is exposed to sunlight, the body produces vitamin D, critical for healthy immune function. In cold, cloudy winter months, when you’re not out as much, you may need supplements, since low levels of vitamin D can make you more susceptible to colds and flu. Epidemiologic studies show that high vitamin D levels are linked with a reduced risk of upper respiratory tract infections, and supplementing with vitamin D significantly lowers risk of infection. In one study, vitamin D cut the risk of respiratory infection in half, especially in people who were deficient. Look for vitamin D 3 in gel caps or liquids for best absorption. 3Load up on echinacea. It’s rich in compounds that support the immune system by activating the body’s defense systems. Some studies show that echinacea can inhibit the flu virus, viral growth, and the secretion of pro-inflammatory compounds in the body. Studies on echinacea’s effects on colds are mixed, but some research suggests that it can inactivate certain respiratory bacteria, reverse inflammatory effects caused by these bacteria, and control symptoms. In some cases, echinacea may reduce the likelihood of getting a cold by 10–20 percent. Choose standardized echinacea tinctures for maximum absorption, or try echinacea capsules. 4Don’t forget “Indian echinacea.” Andrographis, also called “Indian echinacea,” supports immune function and can both prevent sickness and significantly improve symptoms. Studies show that andrographis is twice as effective as a placebo at reducing respiratory tract infection symptoms (cough, sore throat, runny nose, fever), and can lessen the duration of illness. One review of 33 studies found that andrographis was significantly better than other herbal therapies at reducing symptoms of respiratory tract infections. Most 34 • JANUARY <strong>2020</strong> studies used a product that combines andrographis with Siberian ginseng. Try andrographis capsules or tablets, or look for it in combination respiratory health formulas. 5Sauté some shiitakes. They’re rich in compounds called beta glucans that support immune function and protect against colds and flu. Add broccoli or kale—like other cruciferous vegetables, they support immune function—and carrots or other orange vegetables that can protect against infection. Include lots of garlic, which activates the body’s natural killer cells and reduces the severity of cold and flu symptoms. And sprinkle your stir-fry with nutritional yeast, which increases the body’s potential to defend against invading pathogens and can reduce infections by as much as 25 percent. If you don’t love mushrooms, try a supplement. Look for reishi, maitake, lion’s mane, or cordyceps, or choose a blend formulated to support immune function. 6Boost your berries. Blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, and other berries are rich in polyphenols that support immune function and may protect against the flu. Elderberry in particular is rich in antioxidant polyphenols that enhance immune cell activity and may block a virus’s ability to spread. Research shows that elderberry both inhibits the flu virus and reduces symptoms if you do get an infection. In one study of people who had the flu, almost 47 percent of those who took an elderberry extract for three days had a complete resolution of their symptoms. In another study, elderberry extract cut duration of flu symptoms in half. Look for syrups, lozenges, or effervescent tablets, and take as soon symptoms appear. 7Rest easy. A good night’s sleep protects immune function and can reduce your risk of colds and flu. Part of the reason: the body releases chemicals during sleep that help regulate immune response and fight infection. Sleep also lowers stress, which can make you more susceptible to sickness. Quality is as important as quantity: one study found that people who slept less than seven hours a night were almost three times more likely to get a cold, and those who slept poorly were more than five times more prone to colds. If you struggle to snooze, try melatonin, valerian, or kava kava, which have all been shown to improve quality of sleep. 8Get back to your roots. In herbal medicine, it’s thought that the healing compounds of many plants are more concentrated in the roots. Three to try: Ginseng has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine for its immune-supportive effects. It helps protect against upper respiratory infections, and some studies show that taking ginseng daily for 3–4 months during flu season can significantly decrease the risk of developing a cold or flu and reduce the number of colds in a season. If you do get an infection, ginseng can reduce symptom severity and duration. Choose standardized ginseng in tinctures or capsules, ideally organic, and look for a formula that’s been tested for purity. Pelargonium, from a plant known as African geranium, has both antiviral and antibacterial activities, and is effective in treating a number of respiratory conditions, including bronchitis, sinusitis, and the common cold. Other studies show pelargonium extract may inhibit infection by, and prevent the replication of, respiratory viruses. It’s sold under the brand name Umcka or as umckaloabo, in syrups, liquids, drink mixes, and chewable tablets. Turmeric, traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, is known for its ability to reduce inflammation and support immune function. It also has antibacterial and antiviral properties, and can protect against viruses that cause a variety of respiratory illnesses. In some studies,
For One Doctor, the Choice Is “Xlear” Gustavo Ferrer, MD, an experienced pulmonologist trained in both Cuba and the U.S., has seen more than his fair share of cold and flu cases. As the founder of the Cleveland Clinic Florida Cough Clinic, Ferrer has been treating patients for all kinds of respiratory ailments for more than 20 years. One of his favorite weapons for combating colds and flu isn’t Mucinex, Sudafed, or another OTC product—it’s Xlear, a natural nasal spray that Ferrer says works consistently among his patients. We wanted to hear more, so we sat down with Ferrer and asked him a few questions. BN: You’ve said Xlear Nasal Spray has become one of your favorite natural products. How has it helped your patients? I have been using Xlear for my patients for more than five years. I was first introduced to Xlear from Burke Lennihan, RH, CCH, the coauthor of my book Cough Cures. She was using it with her patients for years. I carefully reviewed the research, and then I started using it for chronic cough, rhinitis, postnasal drip, and sinusitis. My patients love it. BN: For people not familiar with Xlear Nasal Spray, what is it, and how can it help keep colds and flu at bay? Xlear Nasal Spray features xylitol, a natural ingredient that clinical studies show helps break up bacterial colonies called biofilms and inhibit bacteria from sticking to nasal and sinus tissues. It safely cleanses the nose and sinuses by helping the body flush contaminants out of the body. BN: How does it differ from saline and other nasal sprays (OTC and prescription)? Saline nasal sprays, though natural, do not offer enough impact to promote health. Additionally, saline alone can dry out the nasal passages, creating a more susceptible environment for illness. People also complain of an uncomfortable burning sensation when using saline. Prescription nasal sprays contain medication that could cause rebound symptoms (e.g., congestion) or even dependence. Prescription medications do not work with the body—in fact, they can turn off the body’s natural defenses, which could create more of a problem. I’ve found that Xlear Nasal Spray is highly effective while still being natural and safe to use as much as needed. It also works with the body’s natural processes to defend itself. BN: What’s the best way to use it? Xlear Nasal Spray is best used daily to keep the nose and sinuses clean. If people are needing a stronger punch during cold and flu season, Xlear Rescue, a separate product, is the best option. Xlear Rescue combines the original saline-andxylitol formula with health-promoting herbs like oregano and other essential oils, added for additional benefit when people need it most. Learn more about Ferrer at gustavoferrermd.com. curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, prevented replication of some strains of the flu virus by 90 percent. It’s also effective in preventing bronchitis. Look for standardized forms in capsules or tinctures, and be sure it contains black pepper extract (piperine) to dramatically increase its absorption. 9Supercharge your smoothie. Make your breakfast count with an immune-boosting smoothie: start with plain yogurt, rich in probiotics that support immune function, improve the activity of natural killer cells, and prevent infection. Research shows that probiotics are effective for fighting the common cold and flu-like respiratory infections, and can reduce the number of respiratory tract infections. Add some kiwis, peaches, or papaya—all are high in immune-enhancing vitamin C to protect against pathogens and reduce the frequency of colds. Sweeten your smoothie with Manuka honey, a special variety that comes from Australia and New Zealand. Studies show that it has antibacterial and immune-supportive properties, and may protect against the flu virus. a hike. Exercise enhances immune function 10Take and can help your body fight off bad bugs. A brisk walk or hike is ideal; in one study, regular moderate Country Life Gut Connection Immune Balance Mushroom Wisdom Maitake D Fraction EZ Spray exercise reduced respiratory infections by a third, but strenuous exercise increased susceptibility. And hike with a friend—social interactions reduce stress and improve immune response. Start exercising before cold and flu season to bolster your body’s defenses. If you have a bug, take it easy. Gentle movement with a common cold can speed healing, but if you have a fever, chills, body aches, or chest congestion, rest until you’re better. Quantum Health TheraZinc Lozenges Redd Remedies Immune Vrl Pro Terry Naturally Andrographis EP80 Extra Strength JANUARY <strong>2020</strong> • 35
Page 1 and 2: YOUR ULTIMATE RESOURCE FOR NATURAL
Page 3: Great Taste High Protein 0g Sugar
Page 6 and 7: CONTENTS 43 Vitamin D-packed Cream
Page 8 and 9: EDITOR’S LETTER A New Year for th
Page 10 and 11: NEWS*BITES BY VERA TWEED The Choles
Page 12 and 13: NEWS*BITES Ashwagandha Improves Sle
Page 14 and 15: PASSION BEHIND THE PRODUCT * compan
Page 16 and 17: IN THE SPOTLIGHT * stay-healthy sec
Page 18 and 19: HOT BUYS * new & notable Not-to-Mis
Page 20 and 21: CHECK OUT * An essential B vitamin,
Page 22 and 23: ASK THE NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR * answe
Page 24 and 25: AROMATHERAPY Rx * RELAX FOCUS AROMA
Page 26 and 27: NATURAL BEAUTY * ** AÇAI is an ant
Page 28 and 29: NATURAL REMEDY * holistic strategie
Page 30 and 31: NEW YEAR’S GUIDE TO Making Lastin
Page 32 and 33: 2Define it: Now that you have a New
Page 34 and 35: Fever, body aches, sore throats, an
Page 38 and 39: 36 • JANUARY 2020 THE CBD SCOOP *
Page 40 and 41: THE CBD SCOOP more than 0.3 percent
Page 42 and 43: HEALTHY DISH * Few foods offer hear
Page 44 and 45: EATING 4 HEALTH * Over the past dec
Page 46: ASK THE NUTRITIONIST * Q I want to
Page 49 and 50: PRODUCT SPOTLIGHTS Doctor’s Best
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