
Here in the city, temps are dropping. And the days are already growing shorter.
Perhaps you’re experiencing the same, depending on where you live.
In other words, it’s “that” time of year again…
And along with the arrival of colder weather comes a surge in seasonal threats to our health.
So, if you’re coming down with something, let’s talk about what NOT to do.
Stop treating your symptoms
Tell me: Do you often reach for an over-the-counter (OTC) remedy when you come down with a cold or flu?
Well, research reveals these drugs offer limited relief… if any.
In fact, an advisory panel to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) agreed that a common decongestant ingredient found in many OTC formulas is downright ineffective.
I’m talking about phenylephrine.
It’s used in many popular formulas from brands like Tylenol, Mucinex, and Benadryl. But research found “the ingredient was useless and no better than a placebo.”
(I guess the good news is that it’s not dangerous—just simply “ineffective.”)
Of course, the “experts” don’t want you to stop buying OTC products. After all, they’re part of a big money-making machine.
And they agree there are plenty of other options to consider for alleviating your symptoms.
But that’s precisely the issue: These drugs are designed to treat your symptoms… NOT boost your immune system. And the latter is what’s really important when it comes to these seasonal viruses.
So, I have a better suggestion…
Boost your immunity
First and foremost, practicing good hygiene will go a long way in preventing the season’s nastiest viruses. I’m talking about washing your hands with plain soap and water—NOT alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
But when it comes to priming your immune system, here’s what I recommend for year-round support:
- Vitamin D—250 mcg (10,000 IU) daily
- BRM–4BioBran, also known as Rice Bran Arabinoxylan Concentrate (RBAC)—1,000 mg daily.
- Vitamin C—1,000 mg, three times daily.
- Probiotics—look for a formula that also contains prebiotics and postbiotics, like Dr. Ohhira’s. Then, take it daily according to the dosage instructions.
And when it comes to protecting yourself from the cold and flu, this is what I do at the first inkling that I may be getting sick—and I haven’t suffered a full-blown illness in decades:
- Vitamin D—increase to 1,250 mcg (50,000 IU) for two days
- Vitamin A (as retinol)—12,000 mcg (40,000 IU) for two days
- Olive Leaf Extract—500 mg three times per day for two days
Oil of Oregano—500 mg three times per day for two days
Source:
“Decongestant in Cold Medicines Doesn’t Work, Panel Says.” The New York Times, 09/12/2023. (nytimes.com/2023/09/12/health/cold-medicine-decongestant-fda.html)