.jpg)
It is that time of year again! The cold and flu season is upon us. Millions of people per year get the common cold and flu, making the common cold or flu a leading reason that people miss work or school. The average adult catches the common cold an estimated 2-4 times per year, this number is even higher amongst the pediatric population.
Here are few specific things that can help prevent and treat the common cold and flus. Always consult with your physician before beginning any medication or supplement regimen.:
Eat a healthy diet
Diet that is lower in sugars and starchy carbohydrates and higher in quality proteins and quality fats.
- Research on the C infection has shown that obesity and insulin resistance (diabetes and prediabetes) are the main risk factors for hospitalization and death.
Drink plenty of water.
Apart from infections there are many conditions that are exacerbated when we are dehydrated. The necessary amount of water varies from person to person. However, the general rule is that we need a minimum of 2-3 liters per day depending on environment and physical activity.
Research shows that some supplements can help with the common cold and flus:
- Vitamin D3: Studies show that Vitamin D3 boosts immune system function. Vitamin D3 reduces viral growth and can reduce upper respiratory infections. Vitamin D3 also has anti-inflammatory properties that help down-regulate cytokine storm.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C supports cellular functions of the immune system. In studies IV vitamin C has been used in conjunction with IV antibiotics to treat pneumonia and sepsis. Vitamin C has been used in hospital ICUs to treat the C infection.
- Zinc: Research shows that zinc has strong anti-viral properties against viruses.
- Quercetin: Quercetin has shown to have many functions: reduce immune-mediated inflammation, help zinc enter our cells, suppressing viral growth.
- Melatonin: Melatonin has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- N-Acetylcysteine (NAC): NAC is a part of the production of glutathione which is a potent antioxidant that supports immune function.
- Vitamin A: Vitamin A supports immune function and the lining of the respiratory tract. This vitamin also has anti-inflammatory properties.
Supplement
Researched Dosage
Vitamin D3
5,000 IU daily (Have your physician check your levels, about 60-80 mg/dL are optimal.)
Vitamin C
1,000-2,000 mg 2 times a day
Zinc
25-50 mg 2 times a day (Best taken with Quercetin.)
Quercetin
1,000 mg 2 times a day (Best taken with Zinc.)
Melatonin
6-10 mg once a day at bedtime (Causes drowsiness.)
N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)
600-900 mg 2 times a day
Vitamin A
10,000-25,000 IU daily
*** Consult with your Functional Medicine physician for the best supplement and dosing regimen for you.
IV Meyers Cocktail or Nutrient IV
This special IV contains ample doses of vitamin C, B vitamins, magnesium, and calcium. Research has shown that infections such the common cold and sinus infections have responded well to treatment with the IV Meyers Cocktail.
Ozone Therapy
Ozone therapy for medical purposes has been around since the 1800s. An individual’s blood and ozone are mixed in a syringe and then the blood and ozone mixture is reinjected into the person. This process is called ozone minor autohemotherapy. Research has shown that about 3-5 treatments over 5-7 days has been beneficial for the common cold and other infections.
Colloidal Silver
Research has shown that silver has natural antibiotic and antiviral properties. Silver given through a nebulizer can support lung health. A nebulizer is a machine used to give medication in the form of a mist that is inhaled into the lungs. Nebulizers are often used to help treat asthma.
Nebulized NAC
N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) is an amino acid. When given by nebulizer (inhaled), studies show that NAC can help reduce the amount of secretions produced from lung and respiratory infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis.
All these modalities are available through consultation in our clinic. Make an appointment and find out what treatments would be best suited for you to make this cold and flu season better.
Linette Williamson MD is a Functional Medicine and Integrative Medical Doctor, who specializes in helping her patients identify lifestyle factors that affect their everyday medical issues. Dr. Williamson uses cutting edge testing to find imbalances that are related to your health problems. She will spend time with you to find out what specific issues you have and help you develop a specific plan that is unique to you.
.png)