Winter Sickness

By Lynette Robinson

From as far back as I can remember I spent many Decembers on the couch or in bed with bronchitis. Again, this year I have spent the better part of three weeks coughing and feeling like crud.  I have lacked the energy to even put on my shoes to go outside and I began wondering why December seems to be the magical month of sickness.  So many people I know are also sick at this time of year even though they faithfully got the mandated flu inoculation. I received a call from yet another dear friend who is in health crisis.   What is it about this time of year that reduces the resistance of the masses?

There is a battle raging, one of both spirit and body.  This past year I have become more aware of how our spiritual and emotional situation affects our well-being.  I have also learned how our diet and what we eat affects our immunity, mental health and attitude about the world and people around us.

A recent study shows that our DNA actually changes with the season causing a shift in our inflammatory genes during the winter when we live in a cold climate.  In warm climates where winter doesn’t happen, this shift actually coincides with the rainy season when mosquitoes and malaria are more likely. It's like our body ramps up to be sick.

Another finding may account for why the flu virus is more infectious in cold winter temperatures than during the warmer months.  At winter temperatures, the virus's outer covering, or envelope, hardens to a rubbery gel that could shield the virus as it passes from person to person, the researchers have found. At warmer temperatures, however, the protective gel melts to a liquid phase. But this liquid phase apparently isn't tough enough to protect the virus against the elements, and so the virus loses its ability to spread from person to person.

And, let’s face it.  We are indoors more, in closer contact with people and most don’t stay at home when they become sick.  Sick people are our shopping, at church and on public transportation so what is a person to do?  

What we can do.  I have actually put a reminder in my calendar to start supplementing with Vitamin D3 and Vitamin C.  Synergistically they increase the ability of our body to utilize each.  The shorter days and more distant sun decrease the availability of vitamin D3 which is the natural substance.  Vitamin D2 is the synthetic form and may cause more harm than good.  Be sure to muscle test, if you know how, to determine the best dosage and kind for your body.  I have been supplementing for the past two weeks and can tell a difference.

Another important aspect of optimum health is to make sure that your digestion is moving.  It has been estimated that more than 90% of illness begins in the gut and that’s good enough for me to pay close attention.  You should eliminate at least once for every meal you eat and then one which is a minimum of 4 times a day.  Even if you don’t feel constipated, you really are if you are going any fewer times. 

Eat as much raw and live fruits and vegetables as possible and don’t skimp on healthy fats.  Our brain is a cholesterol machine and it needs fats to function.  Fats also keep us moving. 

Probiotics are an important aspect of healthy digestion and there are so many factors that kill off beneficial bacteria in our bodies.  The more strains and sources, the better.  Probiotic supplements, Kombucha, Fermented foods, Yogurt, raw fruits and vegetables are all good prebiotics and probiotics.

Water is so important.  Drink at least 8 glasses or clean water daily in addition to other liquids.

Sleep at least 8 hours a day and prepare yourself for sleep.  Turn off electronics at least an hour before bedtime and move your wireless router as far from your bedroom as possible.  Drink something warm such as a bedtime herbal tea.  Meditate on your blessings, spend time conversing with your Higher Power, The Lord God or what you consider the Creator.  Ask for protection and inspiration as you live your life.  Studies show that people who believe in God are healthier and more content.