Conditions: Colds & Flu

Should you get vaccinated? Which supplements really work to prevent and treat flu? Health experts discuss the latest studies—and what you can do. Head to our cold and flu wellness center and conditions page for more information about kicking that cough, boosting your immunity, and making it through the season. Plus, stay informed about the latest news and tips on our health blog.

5 supplements to build immunity:

1. Calcium 1,000 mg/day
2. Magnesium 400 mg/day
3. Vitamin C 1,000 mg/day (during cold and flu season)
4. Vitamin E 200 IU/day
5. Zinc 12 mg/day

Simple steps to prevent
swine flu

Natural swine flu prevention for kids and adults


1. Take N-acetylcysteine
2. Use natural hand sanitizer
3. Boost immunity with vitamin C
4. Teach kids not to rub their eyes, put fingers in their nose, and to keep their hands away from their face
5. Eat 5 servings of fresh veggies and fruit, good proteins, other vegetables, and a real meal 3 times a day
6. Take Chinese herbs like Zhong Gan Ling and Yin Chiao or try the homeopathic remedy, Oscillococcinum.

Learn how tai chi can help keep you healthy.

Flu shot
lowdown

Check out flu-shot safety to find
out if it’s right for you.

What should I eat
to avoid the flu?

Experts recommend keeping your kitchen stocked with foods containing immune system boosters, such as allicin, vitamin C, zinc and probiotics. These include common foods like garlic, citrus fruits, seafood and meats, and yogurt. Dietitians also suggest switching to vitamin D-fortified milk, since research indicates that vitamin D boosts immunity against respiratory viruses.

For more swine flu information, including vaccination updates, go to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Homeopathic help

Sore throat? Check. Aches and pains? Check. Runny nose? Check. Use our guide to finding the right homeopathic remedy based on your symptoms. Plus, more top herbs to try:

Herbs to boost immunity
Natural alternatives to OTC
Ginseng extract wards off the common cold
Fight off the flu

Health Centers

Conditions/Treatments

Health Notes

Understand your options to make informed health decisions.

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Online Resources

Organic Connections
Frances Moore Lappe: Building a Living Democracy
Organic Report 2011: Where Organic is and Where it's going
Andrew Kimbrell: The Role of Organic in Food Safety




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