Another influenza (flu) season will soon be among us. Have you ever wondered why the flu virus only shows up during the winter months? Is it possible that the virus vacations during the rest of the year -possibly on a remote island? One credible hypothesis that explains the seasonal nature of the flu is that influenza is a vitamin D deficiency disease. Vitamin D levels in your blood fall to their lowest point during flu seasons. Unable to be protected by the body’s own antibiotics (antimicrobial peptides) that are released by vitamin D, a person with a low vitamin D blood level is more vulnerable to contracting colds, influenza, and other respiratory infections. Studies show that children with rickets, a vitamin D-deficient skeletal disorder, suffer from frequent respiratory infections, and children exposed to sunlight are less likely to get a cold.
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
So what can you do to keep yourself well throughout this upcoming flu season? First, get your vitamin D level checked. There are two vitamin D tests -- 1,25(OH)D and 25(OH)D. 25(OH)D is the better marker of overall D status. It is this marker that is most strongly associated with overall health. The correct test is 25(OH)D, also called 25-hydroxyvitamin D. So have your Primary Care Doctor order the above blood test and do not go to Quest Labs for this test. The assay that Quest currently uses to measure Vitamin D levels is inaccurate.
Here are some additional recommendations for staying healthy during the cold and flu season:
1. Adjust your daily lifestyle to include adequate sleep, relaxation, exercise, and pure water consumption (8-10 glasses).
2. Decrease your consumption of alcohol, coffee, and refined sugar. Even small amounts of sugar decrease immune system function.
3. Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your nose, eyes, and mouth.
4. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Todd for a nutrient response body scan to determine if your body’s organ systems are functioning optimally to keep you well.
Wishing you well during this upcoming flu season and always.
Your’s In Health,
Todd M. Lococo, ND
Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine
Phone: 387-2249
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