Most of us love the change of seasons, and if you live in the Northern Hemisphere, chances are you are enjoying the cool autumn air and the lovely shades of gold and auburn taking over the landscape.
Undoubtedly, you can’t help but notice the widespread media coverage on the dangers of the “flu season”, especially now with the ongoing swine flu pandemic, urging everyone to get vaccinated against the seasonal flu. Local pharmacies, doctor’s offices and hospitals are pitching the flu shot as the only and best solution to prevent infection. But there is no mention of the ONE most important thing you can do to stay healthy during flu season, and it has to do with having a strong immune system.
Shhhh… This Subject is a Big Taboo…
It seems that any relevant discussion about the state of your immunity is a huge taboo, and this most critical component of health is NEVER discussed. But what if I told you that getting vaccinated could actually INCREASE your chances of catching the flu? If you asked my mother, she would wholeheartedly agree with this statement because that’s exactly what happened to her.
My mother and I are very close, and we often have conversations about different topics, including health issues. Of course, it is one of my priorities to stay on top of everything she does to stay healthy, and thankfully, she is incredibly healthy and looks (and acts) many years younger than her age.
A couple of years ago she called me on her way back from the supermarket where a lady in a booth convinced her to take the seasonal flu shot. I was very disturbed by this, not only because it is so unethical to prey on the elderly with scare tactics about the flu, but also because I knew that these shots are toxic and actually may do more harm than good.
Sure enough, approximately 10 days later, my mother fell ill with a terrible flu and was in bed for more than a week, with high fever and an awful chest cough. She had to take antibiotics and the cough lasted a few weeks until fortunately it all cleared up. Now bear in mind that my mother had never caught the flu for at least the last 20 years, and that one time when she actually got vaccinated, she suffered the worst flu case she could remember.
Can the Flu Shot do More Harm than Good?
Because I want to help you stay healthy – as our bone health more often than not reflects our overall health – I will go over the myths and the scientific truths about the flu and the flu shots. With this information in hand, you’ll have the tools to make an educated decision about getting the flu shot or not. So let’s get started with…
Myth # 1: The flu needlessly claims tens of thousands of lives every year
The truth: In order to convince you to take the flu shot, your doctor might try to scare you saying that influenza is the most frequent cause of death from vaccine-preventable diseases in the U.S. Your health practitioner is most probably using the information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) claiming that from 1990 through 1998, an average of 36,000 flu-related pulmonary and circulatory deaths occurred each season in the United States.
What the CDC fails to disclose is that there is no way of knowing how many people who died from underlying respiratory and circulatory problems actually had the influenza infection. Records simply do not disclose that information, making this an inaccurate number of deaths related to the flu and a monumental scare tactic.
Myth # 2: Getting the flu shot protects you from catching the flu
The truth: Scientists agree that what gets you sick is not the actual virus but the condition of your immune system. In other words, a weak immune system is what may let you catch the flu.
As in my mother’s case, many people catch the flu after getting vaccinated. How can that be? The common sense answer is that vaccines actually compromise the immune system. In other words, the flu shot keeps the immune system “busy” fighting what most of the time ends up being the wrong type of viruses.
The sad truth rarely mentioned in the mainstream media and by health practitioners is that the vaccines are manufactured one year in advance. So, aided by researchers, vaccine manufacturers have to guess one year in advance which viruses will strike the next flu season. That is why more often than not, the flu outbreaks involve strains that do not match the current flu shot (http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/96913.php). But the public is not informed of this mishap… Even so (and against all logic), the CDC still maintains that the shot could provide cross-protection against the new variant.
Myth # 3: Flu shots contain safe ingredients
The truth: Flu shots have many toxic and potentially dangerous chemicals. Because the virus strains are bred in eggs, sheep guts, monkey brains or fetal diploid tissue, manufacturers have to use potent preservatives to prevent bacteria or fungus from contaminating the vaccine. Most of the preservatives used are known to be toxic and some are even recognized carcinogens listed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Additionally, some flu shots contain live “attenuated” viruses, capable of actually causing side-effects identical to the flu.
Would You Put these Toxic Chemicals in Your Body?
I randomly chose two popular flu shots and came up with a scary list of stabilizers and preservatives used in them. Antibiotics also act as preservatives in the shots, and I marked them with an asterisk (*).
Below are the brand names and the preservatives used in each:
Fluvirin by Medeva Pharmaceuticals
Contains influenza virus, neomycin*, polymyxin*, beta-propiolactone, chick embryonic fluid.
Beta-propiolactone is a potent and toxic disinfectant used to sterilize blood plasma, shots, tissue grafts, surgical instruments, and enzymes. It is also “reasonably expected to be a human carcinogen”, especially when injected into the bloodstream (International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1999).
Flushield by Wyeth-Ayerst
Contains trivalent influenza virus, types A&B gentamicin sulphate*, formaldehyde, thimerosal, and polysorbate 80 (Tween-80), chick embryonic fluid.
Formaldehyde: please refer to Formalin.
Thimerosal is a mercury derivative and a highly toxic heavy metal that attacks every organ and system in the body. Thimerosal is made of thiosalicylic acid and a form of mercury called ethyl mercury. When all is said and done, mercury is 49.59% of the weight of thimerosal. Researchers have confirmed that it’s unsafe to touch or swallow the mercury from a broken thermometer, yet health practitioners recommend that you inject the same poison directly into your body through a shot. Additionally, some studies have linked high levels of mercury to Alzheimer’s disease. Thimerosal is a registered pesticide with the Department of Pesticide Registration of the Environmental Protection Agency.
Polysorbate 80 (also known as Tween 80): Generally contaminated with the carcinogen 1,4-dioxane, it has been shown to have estrogenic alterative effects and cause reproductive disturbances in rats.
The Baffling Shot Paradox
If vaccinations are really effective, then those who choose to get the flu shot should be immune to the disease. So why is there such a strong push to vaccinate as many people as possible? Aren’t those who get the shot protected anyways? And if this is true, we should ask doctors why, as statistics show, only 40% of health practitioners take the shot while practically 100% of doctors recommend the flu shot to their patients. Maybe they know something we don’t…until now.
Breaking News: Six Canadian Provinces Halt Flu Vaccinations
In an unprecedented move, the provinces of Quebec, Ontario, Alberta, Saskatchewan, British Columbia, and Nova Scotia have stopped their seasonal flu vaccinations, as reported in The Globe and Mail on 9/29/2009 (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/more-flu-programs-suspended/article1304958/). This is due to a controversial yet unpublished study indicating that those who took the flu shot were twice as likely to catch the swine flu.
Quoting from the article, “For those people still on the fence, this could very easily put them into the no-vaccine side of things,” said Donald Low, chief microbiologist at Toronto’s Mount Sinai Hospital.” And Ethan Rubinstein, head of adult infectious diseases at the University of Manitoba, agreed that the study “complicates” the situation, evidently not aware of the clear indication that shots actually distract the immune system and thus, greatly impair the ability to fight a full-fledged viral attack.
Ten Ways to Naturally Boost Your Immune System
The human body is fully equipped with mechanisms to stave off viruses and germs, so the key to preventing flu viruses is to maintain those systems operating at their peak. The good news is that you can strengthen your immune system with natural supplements, beneficial immune-specific foods, and by paying attention to a few simple lifestyle habits.
So whether you decide to get vaccinated or not, here are ten suggestions to naturally boost your immune system.
1. Vitamin D
We all know that flu season hits in the winter, when – especially in cold climates – we typically get very little or no sun exposure. You might be surprised to know that we carry a variety of influenza viruses throughout the year, so something must happen in the winter. Realizing this, researches searched for the connection, and found a strong correlation between Vitamin D levels and immunity (Source: Cannell et.al., On the Epidemiology of Influenza. Virology Journal, 2008;5:29). Good levels of Vitamin D are crucial to help you fight against viruses and to keep you healthy year round. Make sure you take at least 1,000 IU of Vitamin D3 during the winter, regardless of sun exposure.
Vitamin D3 – 1000 IU – 200 Capsules
2. Aloe Vera
This multi-tasking plant believed to originate in Northern Africa, has long and thick leaves that contain a liquid gel, rich in valuable nutrients. Among other things, aloe gel contains high amounts of a long chain sugar called mucopolysaccharides which boost the immune modulators to fight off viruses and bacteria. They also penetrate all cell membranes and increase their fluidity and permeability, allowing toxins to flow out of the cell and nutrients to enter the cells. Drink 2 to 4 oz. of Aloe Vera juice, preferably cold-processed.
Aloe Vera Juice Inner Fillet – 32 fl oz
3. Mushroom Extracts (Shiitake, Reishi, Maitake)
these mushrooms have excellent immune-boosting properties. Shiitake mushrooms are an excellent source of lentinan, a polysaccharide that increases T-cell function and can be used for cooking. Reishi mushrooms contain immunologically active polysaccharides, mainly beta-D-glucan, that have potent immune-stimulating qualities. Maitake mushrooms are delicious and rich in a potent immune stimulant that enhances the activity of key immune cells. Try to incorporate these mushrooms in your daily menu and during the winter, take mushroom extract supplements.
Mushroom Complex – 60 Capsules
4. Reduce Your Sugar Consumption
Table sugar and high fructose corn syrup raise your blood insulin levels, which in turn decreases the release of growth hormone and weakens your immune system. Glucose also competes with Vitamin C needed by white blood cells to kill viruses and bacteria. Scientific studies have shown that consuming 100 grams of sugar reduces the immune function by 50 percent within an hour. To give you an idea of what this measurement means, a level teaspoon of white sugar is 5 grams and about 20 teaspoons of sugar would amount to 100 grams. Sounds like a lot? Let’s do the math: one can of soda has the equivalent of 9 teaspoons of sugar, and a 20 oz. bottle of regular soda has the equivalent of 15 teaspoons. Stay away from foods or drinks that contain large amounts of sugar and instead, whenever possible, use stevia, a natural plant-derived sweetener.
Truvia Natural Sweetener – 140 Packets
5. Vitamin C
The “Old Faithful” of antioxidants, Vitamin C plays an important role in the prevention of colds and the flu. A study involving marathon runners, skiers and soldiers training in the Arctic showed that taking an average of 625 mg of Vitamin C a day decreased the incidence of colds by 50% (Source: Douglas RM, Hemila H, D’Souza R, Chalker EB, Treacy B. Vitamin C for preventing and treating the common cold. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2004). Take 500 mg. of Vitamin C a day throughout the entire year to keep your immune system at optimum levels.
Vitamin C-500 with Bioflavonoids – 500 mg – 250 Capsules
6. Garlic
This delicious culinary ingredient has antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antiseptic properties, and has long been used to fight off and prevent colds and infections. The active ingredient is allicin, and it is present in both raw and cooked garlic. Try to eat two garlic cloves a day, and if you don’t want to have “garlic breath”, add two crushed cloves to your favorite recipe or take a garlic supplement.
Garlic Ultra – 1,200 mg per serving – 180 Capsules
7. Probiotics
Friendly intestinal bacteria play a key role in keeping the immune system functioning at optimal levels. They compete with pathogens for cellular nutrients, thereby inhibiting the “invader’s” growth. One type of probiotic, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, prevents allergens and pathogens from entering the bloodstream. An article published in Nutrition Research (2001) shows that taking L. rhamnosus results in increased levels of leucocyte phagocytosis, a marker of immune activity. My recommendation: eat at least 8 oz. of unsweetened plain yogurt each day as a natural source of probiotics. You can use stevia or honey as a sweetener, and sprinkle with granola for crunch. If you have taken antibiotics in the past, you should take a supplement for at least six months to bring your intestinal flora up to par, and then continue with the yogurt.
Probiotic 10-20 – 20 Billion CFU – 100 Vegetarian Capsules
8. Zinc
This essential yet often ignored trace element helps support the immune system. A study in men and women aged 65 and over found that taking 25 mg/day of zinc a day for only three months increased levels of circulating immune cells known as CD4 T and cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (Source: Fortes C, Forastiere F, Agabiti N, et al. The effect of zinc and vitamin A supplementation on immune response in an older population. Journal of the American Geriatric Society. 1998). Make sure you take 25 mg. of zinc every day year-round, as it is also very important to your bone health. Chelated zinc is the best and most absorb-able form.
Zinc Chelate – 25 mg – 90 Tablets
9. Vitamin E
This potent antioxidant is made up of four tocopherols (alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-) and four tocotrienols (alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-). However, alpha-tocopherol is the most commonly form of vitamin E found in the blood and tissues. In fact, even though the main function of Vitamin E is that of an antioxidant, alpha-tocopherol in particular appears to have a beneficial effect on the molecules and enzymes in immune cells. Scientific studies show that as little as 200 IU of alpha-tocopherol can significantly increase immunity against a variety of respiratory infections (Source: Meydani SN, Leka LS, Fine BC, et al. Vitamin E and respiratory tract infections in elderly nursing home residents: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of the American Medical Association. 2004). Since the flu typically attacks the respiratory tract, it is wise to take at least 200 IU of Vitamin E, and make sure that your supplement has alpha-tocopherol in it, should you decide to take a mixed tocopherol formula, which is also fine.
E Tocopherol Complex – 200 IU – 60 Softgels
10. Rest
It’s especially important during the cold and flu season to keep from getting run down. Try to get at least 6 hours of quality sleep a night. Here’s one hint: if you are physically active during the day, you’ll be tired at bedtime. So avoid long hours of inactivity and keep moving as much as possible.
Do you have any flu shot stories you’d like to share? Join the conversation and share them with the community below.
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May 14, 2013
Good post. I absolutely appreciate this site. Continue the good work!Sky Habitat sky habitat http://skyhabitatt.com
February 2, 2013
I’ve never had the flu and have never bothered getting a flu shot. I still won’t bother.
So I just wanted to ask: did your mother suffer from a secondary bacterial infection while she had the flu? If not, then whoever gave her the antibiotics is a dumbass.
January 16, 2013
yes,
I have a question. If forced to take flu shot,is their anyway to rid your body of the vacine? thanks KIM
January 15, 2013
In the military, we don’t have a choice whether we get the flu shot or not and most military people do get sick after the flu shot. Sometimes women that just had a baby are given the LIVE virus (mist) KNOWING they have a baby under 6 months at home!! Which is potentially putting the baby in harms way-health wise! Those are the terrible medical health facts about being government property and fighting for our country. We have no say in what shots or medicine to make mandatory for us, and I know that is not right! We’ve become more of a lab rat it seems.
March 24, 2013
Yes, the government doesn’t care about you at this moment. The government only cares about money. If we get money out of politics then the pointless wars will also stop. A good way to hopefully stop the flu shot would be to have more people help out with wolf-pac.com. That is a website to get money out of politics and help out any way you can please.
March 24, 2013
Yes, the government doesn’t care about you at this moment. The government only cares about money. If we get money out of politics then the pointless wars will also stop. A good way to hopefully stop the flu shot would be to have more people help out with wolf-pac.com. That is a website to get money out of politics and help out any way you can please.
March 24, 2013
Yes, the government doesn’t care about you at this moment. The government only cares about money. If we get money out of politics then the pointless wars will also stop. A good way to hopefully stop the flu shot would be to have more people help out with wolf-pac.com. That is a website to get money out of politics and help out any way you can please.
January 25, 2013
I am so sorry you are put in this position…I only came on to read the article but then saw your comment. Might I say a heartfelt thanks for the sacrifices you and other service members make for our safety? I am appalled at what you must go through but am thankful that so many still count the cost and are willing to pay a very high price to protect our country. Thank you!
January 14, 2013
Keep me posted, cause I have osteopenia and osteoporosis in my right femoral neck.
January 14, 2013
I got a flu shot in September of 2001 and that summer I had the worst case of flu I have ever had.
January 13, 2013
For those of you that are blaming the author of this article for the reason of so many getting the Flu because of not getting the Flu shot, and also creating paranoia about the flu shot is the reason this year’s flu is already claiming so many lives, you people are severely brainwashed by your Government and only believe what you want to believe you are all like cattle, you don’t have a mind of your own or even the intelligence to research these things on your own, The Flu shot is a highly toxic chemical injection that can injure, cause more illnesses and even kill, just because the CDC and your doctor and Gov. state that you need this to prevent the Flu are ludicrous. Do you not understand that the medical/drug companies are a business, it’s in there best interest to keep you sick and coming back, It’s all about money wake up already and quit saying that’s not true they would never do that, open your eyes you will be disgusted with what you find out, This doctor is simply stating that if you take care of yourself and use common sense and self maintenance you will probably be fine, if you have underlying issues don’t blame it on Flu prevention. Did you ever wonder why so many say, I don’t get the Flu shot cause when I did I got sick? Yeah idiot, the chemicals in it are toxic, or you probably were getting sick already. wash your hands keep them away from your face and mouth, take generally good care of yourself and do things to maintain good health, quit abusing and taking your body for granted. you get out of it what you put into it. Flu shots are Bullshit and “snake oil” do the research yourself.
January 11, 2013
Great and much needed article. The incessant government promotion of the flu vaccine is at an all time high. Thank you for educating people on the real story. Thanks.
January 12, 2013
You’re welcome, Scott!
January 10, 2013
You should not try to stop people from getting the flu shot,we have an epidemic out there and the flu shot is not live and does not give you the flu,it takes two weeks for it to become effective,this article is deceiving and could cause some one not to get the flu shot! I have spoken to dr’s who recommend the shot!!!!
March 24, 2013
I disagree with you on this one. I honestly haven’t had a cold for about 5 years. I got pregnant in autumn last year. Around 20 week of pregnancy I was told by my GP to have this flu injection. I thought ok,to protect my baby,I will,and believe or not, a few weeks later I got the worst flu I ever had. Funny enough,after 28 weeks I was offered whooping cough vaccine and sure enough,weeks later I was sick as dog.I mean,honestly,why? I should have protected me,not making me sick. Shame I didn’t do more research on this one earlier. Because we believe in our GP too much.
March 24, 2013
I disagree with you on this one. I honestly haven’t had a cold for about 5 years. I got pregnant in autumn last year. Around 20 week of pregnancy I was told by my GP to have this flu injection. I thought ok,to protect my baby,I will,and believe or not, a few weeks later I got the worst flu I ever had. Funny enough,after 28 weeks I was offered whooping cough vaccine and sure enough,weeks later I was sick as dog.I mean,honestly,why? I should have protected me,not making me sick. Shame I didn’t do more research on this one earlier. Because we believe in our GP too much.
March 24, 2013
I disagree with you on this one. I honestly haven’t had a cold for about 5 years. I got pregnant in autumn last year. Around 20 week of pregnancy I was told by my GP to have this flu injection. I thought ok,to protect my baby,I will,and believe or not, a few weeks later I got the worst flu I ever had. Funny enough,after 28 weeks I was offered whooping cough vaccine and sure enough,weeks later I was sick as dog.I mean,honestly,why? I should have protected me,not making me sick. Shame I didn’t do more research on this one earlier. Because we believe in our GP too much.
January 14, 2013
I still remember how the medical profession was encouraging us to smoke cigarettes to expand lung capacity. They have not yet apologized for that “advice”.
January 12, 2013
Sure! Let’s blindly trust doctors and their recommendations. You know what? I was prescribed bisphosphonates by my doctor, whom I trusted, and ended up in the emergency room because I could barely breath from the pain! Vivian’s article on the dangers of the flu shot is spot on.
January 10, 2013
Your paranoia about the flu shot is the reason this year’s flu is already claiming so many live. I have been getting a flu shot since 1998 and so does my son and elderly mother. We are still fine.
March 19, 2013
WRONG! They can only put a few strains of the flu into the vaccine. Each year, scientists try to predict what strains will be out there and hope for the best. This year they have admitted that they missed by a long shot. There was absolutely NO benefit to this year’s shot.
January 11, 2013
Many people have different reactions to flu shots. I’ve never had the flu in my entire life but I ended up sicker than a dog within a couple weeks after receiving my first ever flu shot. I will never have a flu shot again.
January 7, 2013
Thank yo so much for the article on flu shot. I hate to take flu shot and I have avoided several times. Now that I have 15 months old son, I am even more concern about the shot and after reading your article I feel so much better. Finally I can say no to the shots, without any second thoughts.
I have shared your article on facebook, hopefully more people will know about it. Thanks so much.
December 4, 2012
I see you warn against the shingle vaccine , but I think it’s a good thing. I’ve seen family members suffer the long term debilitating pain from shingles, and met several people in their 50s and 60s who were left partially paralyzed from shingles. Please don’t use scare tactics the same as the people you talk about
November 16, 2012
Dear Vivian and all our Community Members,
I have enjoyed reading all the stories in these community.I also learn alot.Most importantly about the vaccine.I am 72 years old I have only tried to have a Flu Vaccine the other year, because our Nure when I visit her for yearly checked up.So I tried to have one. Luckily I have no reaction.
That was all. I have never have a Flu in my life.These Flu is a big business from the company, so they will always encourage our Doctor to frighten people to have flu,specially when you are old.Also I think almost all medicine are made not to cure, only to maintain, so that the company will always supply hospital of medicines.This is the reasons. Then the medicines have all the sides effects, so that you will buy non stop of medicines. Of cource you go back to the Doctors and say, Doctor I have a swollen ankles, or what ever, then Doctor right away give us another prescriptions, then another again, the liver, is damage, kidney is damage all is malfunction already then people die in no time. This is what I understand.
I am always watching people get medicines in the Pharmacy, I am very scared looking at the big bags and bags of different kinds of medicines.
Few of my friends, I could not help, but asked.I said, how will you manage to take all those medicines you got. She should me the Plastic container, has a partitions, this is daily, squares, designed for the medicines. Some live only because of the medicines. Some 12, 18, 40, tablets a day.
My husbands late wife died of too many medicines. She has High Blood, then, kidney,damage, thenPanrias, swollen legs, bloated, until the body surrender of all the bombardments of different kinds of chemicals.
The medicines are not designed to cure, just to let people hang on and hang on to consume more medicine to make the manufacturer very rich. This is what I am psychologizing.
So I will urge all the peopels in this community to just eat the right kind of foods, do not drink too much alcohol and stop smoking, have a good life style have holiday to make you hear happy then all of us will be alright, and keep aways from prescriptions. Walk, play tennis even just 20 to 30 minute thats already a great help.
thank you,
juvy
January 8, 2013
Wise words, Juvy. Thank you for your contribution!
January 11, 2013
The most inane portion of your story was telling of all the antibiotict your mother took to combat the symptoms induced by a shot composed of VIRAL components. Sounds kind of like fighting a fire with a screw driver.
January 11, 2013
She may have simply left out that her mother developed a bacterial infection secondary to the flu. It happens.
November 15, 2012
I recently had my 15 month old vaccinated with first flu shot The next day she had sniffles & by two days she was coughing all night & I took her to Dr. My child has never been sick but now running fever & miserable with congestion & ear infection I’m at home mother so she didn’t get this from daycare or other children I honestly feel that her body was working on flu shot & it was to much for her immune system to take care of other bacteria in her little body I’m definitely not considering the second vaccination
March 24, 2013
My mom never vaccinated us with the flu shot. I am never going to let anybody give pointless vaccines to my baby that is the pneumonia shot, flu shot, and chicken pox shot. Those are all 100% bullshit.
November 14, 2012
Thanks for the great information! I’ve only gotten the flu shot once and my arm was sore for over a week and I got the flu the next day, something I’d only had twice in my life, both times when my immunity was low. Needless to say, I don’t plan on getting the shot again.
November 10, 2012
Could you go further on the subject of probiotics. My daughter got C-Diff after surgery and is now clear of it but we are holding our breath that she doesn’t get a UTI infection because Dr. said an antibiotic will bring the C-diff back again and she should take a probiotic with the Bactrium DS if she gets an infection. There are a million probiotics on the shelf, so what should you take with Bactrim DS to prevent C-diff and do you have any list of antibiotics that are more prone to cause C-diff and you should warn the doctor. They don’t know, I have asked them. I tried the internet and all I found was Cipro and penicillin are bad for causing C-diff.
March 24, 2013
I don’t know much about infections but with infections they can also go away on their own. Also what that doctor told you if there isn’t anything online about it is a lie then. Just trying to make it so you end up having a sicker child so they can profiteer off of you.
November 8, 2012
I wished I wouldn’t have had the flu shot. I think this is my last year for it. Five days after receiving it, I fainted. This was a first time in my life for me, and I am 71. Of course, the medical profession doesn’t think it could be related to the flu shot. My arm still hurts in the shoulder joint since receiving this three weeks ago. Unfortunately I received the one that is 3x stronger, because of my age. I react to many medicines, and I am sure that something in the vaccine caused me to feel bad.
November 8, 2012
Great informations on the flu shot. Great ideas and replacements for the flu shot. I used to get the flu shot a couple of times before a few years ago only because of my sister used to bug me about it. I have’nt had any problems afterwards of getting sick or anything yet. I always waited until the last part of the sections to get it done in December before. For some reason, it just seems like it was safer to go then near the end of the flu season. Anyways, I am not getting it done this year either. Thank you for everything Vivian. I don’t have facebook, that’s why I don’t send anything in the other part to be able to interact with anybody. Thanks again. Katharine
November 1, 2012
I think that you posted some very good supplements to help build your immune system.
Now I would have to strongly disagree with your so called “facts” on the flu shot.
First of all the companies that develop the influenza shot, spend millions of dollars on research every year developing it. That being said , they are also highly trained and very well educated individuals in these labs, not random writers on some website.
I mean your only real “evidence” here is the time your mother got the flu after receiving the influenza shot. That does not prove anything!
As everyone already knows the flu shot does not protect against every strain of the virus, as you also pointed out in your article. Now you say doctors and health care professionals are always trying to push people into getting the flu shot, did you ever think it’s because they know what they are talking about??? That’s exactly why they are called health care professionals. Now it’s because of stories like these that nobodyggets the flu shot and people continue to get sick and die. Now don’t go reviewing influenza shots, especially when your not a specialist in that field.
March 24, 2013
Then how come all of the websites that have studies with placebos and flu shots the placebos do just as well if not better at protecting against the flu. Also every website does say it’s random.
http://worldofweirdthings.com/2009/10/30/statistics-vaccines-and-viral-evolution/
That link proves it
November 21, 2012
In response to “intelligent person” I would like to mention a few things:
1. In 2005, 2.8 billion dollars of taxpayer money was spent subsidizing the rapid development of cell-based technology for making the flu vaccine. In 2007, the US Health and Human Services Secretary Mike Leavitt, awarded Sanofi Pasteur a 77.4 million dollar contract to retrofit its existing Swiftwater, PA influenza vaccine manufacturing facility (the largest flu vaccine plant in the US). Sanofi Pasteur contributed approximately 25 million dollars toward this retrofit project.
2. Big Pharma = BIG MONEY. As publicly traded companies, pharmaceutical companies have shareholders who are these companies’ number one priority (because they are the biggest holders), whether they say so on their websites, or not. In our capitalist society, money is top dog and worth keeping in mind.
3. I agree with your concern over Vivian’s reference to her mother getting the flu following a flu shot as not being enough “evidence” against getting the vaccine.
Theoretically, flu vaccines have “dead” versions of the chosen virus(es) and the makers claim it’s impossible to “get” the flu from a flu shot. In addition, the flu is a virus and antibiotics are used for bacterial infections, so the added reference to her mother needing to take antibiotics to clear up her illness appears to translate to her not having the “flu” in the first place.
Regardless of this confusing statement, if you are interested in real evidence, check out the National Vaccine Information Center website which posts documented reactions to all vaccinations: http://medalerts.org/
(When using the search function, you don’t need to fill in all the data options, just choose a vaccine in section 3. and click FIND.)
The FLU search shows people between 44-65 have reported 19,994 cases of reactions, the largest group to experience adverse effects from the flu vaccine. The 17-44 age range is next with 16,492 cases.
There are many people who choose to get an annual flu shot and don’t question the “health professionals” like you suggest. But there are others who need more than this. It is unfortunate for those who are (or will be) forced to get a flu shot due to changing legislation, as they have to decide what’s more important, their job or their beliefs on the matter.
The bottom line is that I think we are our own best advocates for making wise choices for ourselves and our families, so it is important to learn all we can about these decisions. This article has some very useful points and suggestions for staying healthy (in spite of the confusion over her mother’s experience).
Your suggestion that she not review influenza shots since she isn’t a specialist in that field reminds me of Monsanto (the agricultural biotechnology corporation) and others who don’t want us to know if GMO ingredients are in our food. They expect us to believe their own science which claims genetically engineered foods are perfectly safe. I’m no expert, but I have learned that “genetically engineered” means pesticides are injected into the plant’s DNA so they MAKE their own poison as they grow. Unfortunately, there’s a lot of money to be made on this, too.
Greed has a strange way of messing with things. It makes sense to learn as much as possible – without attacking the messengers who are doing just this, even if there is room for improvement, which there almost always is. This is how we learn, change, and hopefully stay as healthy as possible.
January 8, 2013
Lorraine, thank you for taking the time to research and present this information!
October 9, 2012
Thank you for this article which is very informative. I have used quality supplements for many years. My work requires that I be on my feet for 6-7 hours per day worked, thus when xrayed to check for arthritis, none was found. I have not taken flu vaccines or anti-biotics for approximately five years. I have used, however, a product called Silver Sol which you can research and which was patented in the U.S. in 2006. You can google Silver Sol (The New Silver Solution Video) with Gordon Pederson or you can go to the website http://www.healthyagain.ca where you can find technical information presented in terms that we (the lay people) can understand.
My bones seem to be in good shape perhaps because of being physically active. I have used the Silver Sol when I felt an infection starting, with good results. I have also read of cases where the vaccine went amiss, which was not a pretty picture.
With best wishes to all.
Shirley Gekler
In years gone by I was plagued with sinus infections and anti-biotics were no longer working for me, however, the Silver Sol has worked for me. I don’t use it on a daily basis, but as I feel that I need it.
Currently I use a blood pressure medication and metformin for diabetes.
October 7, 2012
Thanks again, Vivian…I learned a lot from you. Thanks God I wasn’t able to have a flu shot that was given free by the city government. Health Personnel came to the City Hall to give shots to the employees. However, it was announced that those who have allergies can’t avail. I have an allergy to some foods, so I wasn’t injected.
July 21, 2012
hi!,I love your writing very so much! share we keep up a correspondence extra about your post on AOL? I need a specialist on this house to unravel my problem. May be that’s you! Taking a look ahead to see you.
April 29, 2012
Interesting points, I have had a flu jab every year for the last few years as I’m asthmatic & diabetic; every single time, I’ve been ill afterwards, last time for 3 months, I’m currently in my 4th week of fighting off another cold, I don’t remember being like this before the jabs. My doctor said I would be 5 to 6 times worse off not having it – very scientific, not sure what he based that on, I’ll be giving it a miss this year, I have friends & relatives who’ve stopped having it & they’ve been fine.
March 10, 2012
All good sense there about these ‘flu jabs. I last had influenza (as opposed to just a bad cold) more than forty years ago. I was a power lifter for many years and used high doses of Vitamin C to aid the clearance of lactic acid buildup in the muscles after heavy iron pumping. It worked fine for that purpose but also contributed I think to my freedom from flu and colds all those years. Prior to starting Vit C in doses of anything from a gramme daily to seven or eight grammes, I would get a serious bad cold every winter, and sometimes really nasty sore throat from laryngitis and painful chest. My doctor kept suggesting I have a flu jab for years after I retired, until, at age 72 in 2009, I gave in and had one. Two days later I went down with extremely unpleasant flu symptoms, which took more than three weeks to fade away, leaving behind a chest infection that took nearly six months to clear up. It was too much of a coincidence for my liking, and after that one-time only vaccination, I haven’t had one since. Am now back to my cold and flu free existence!
October 29, 2011
I really appreciate your advice on the flu shot. My healthcare provider has sent me a notice for my Doctor to sign, regarding the
flu vaccine which I get every year. I have’nt
had the flu in years but I’d prefer not getting
the vaccine. I’m leary after reading your email on taking precautions! Thanks Vivian.
October 28, 2011
I discovered that whenever I get a FLU SHOT I get a flu after a week or two and the last one I have almost lasted 3 months. I was on one antibiotic after another that I was scared that antibiotics does not work for me anymore. On the years that I forgot to have a flu shot. I did not get sick. Of course, doctors does not want to believe that. So from then on, I avoided those flu shots and I don’t get a flu as severe as when I had the flu shots. Of course a lot of them will not believe especially when you work in a medical field. So whenever they ask me, if I already had the flu shot. I said yes, so they will not encourage me or forced me to get one, especially they give it free to the employees if you work in the medical field. I hate to lie, but I know what is best for me. My body is not their body.
January 19, 2012
Word to the wise, the antibiotics did not work because flu is a virus. It can’t be killed by antibiotics, only a bacterial infection will be killed by antibiotics. A virus has to run its course.
October 27, 2011
Good articles. Thank you. I am 73 and in good shape. Well I am now losing some excess baggage, so I will feel better when I get some muscle back and some weight off. That’s the plan. I have been learning to eat raw. That means a lot of fruits and vegis. So I believe I am doing my best to improve my immunity. I used to be sick a lot and was told it was the flu for years. Not! Finally some doctors got it right. I had Chronic asthmatic bronchitis. It brought with it secondary infections and pneumonias, so needless to say, I was a sick girl. It never let up. These smart docs saw it as being triggered by allergies and told me that I was not going to get better as long as I lived and worked in Los Angeles. It was being made worse by all the antibiotics I was taking, which was constant. I had a good job, and a house and it was difficult, but I decided to relocate and now I live in the beach air of the So. Coast of Oregon. (which has it’s own problems for some people.) It was right for me. (Divine direction?)
I have always been a supporter of vaccines partly because of not getting vaccinated as a kid because of my parents religious stand. I got a smallpox vaccine when I was abt 21 and married. Had some of the childhood diseases as a kid, and seem to be imune to some I didn’t have. I also got a shingles vaccine a few years ago as soon as I heard about it. That is a terrible thing to get. It can last a life time and many older people never overcome it. Since 1990, I have never not got a flu shot. This year I am not going to get one. I don’t think you can get the flu from the flu shot. That said, I don’t think they are the panacea they are touted to be. When we had the H1N1 flu scare. I started to rethink my absolutism on this. I saw that the authorities were starting to admit that they were not so sure they knew what they were doing.
I want to know what foods contain the vitamins and minerals that I used to take as supplements. I still take them as needed. Being on a good high raw (mostly) diet has better shown me where the food values are. It is maybe the most important thing we can teach young people nowadays. To know what we get from what we eat is so imperative. We can change the health of the next generation by passing on all this information and showing how delicious the food can be. Start early and they won’t have to go thru what I and many others have.
I won’t hold my breath that the politicians and big money interests are going to clean up the environment any time soon, so we must raise up a generation that expects it. Thanks for letting me rant. Love the site.
October 27, 2011
I’m almost 50 years old, vegetarian since 1984, take many supplements, never had a flu shot and never get the flu. As far as I’m concerned – the less chemicals in my body the better.
October 27, 2011
I found your articles regarding flu vaccination to be very informative.
I would be very interested in your comments with respect to the shingles vaccination.
March 24, 2013
I didn’t mean great grandmother I don’t know why I typed that. She is just my grandmother
March 24, 2013
I know my great grandmother hates the flu vaccine but she talked to people who got sick with shingles so she gave in and paid the 50 out of pocket. Since insurance didn’t even pay. That one is newer so not much is known about it but the fear mongering on that has also gone away.
October 27, 2011
Of course it’s your choice, Darlene, but I don’t recommend the shingles vaccine. Here are some of the ingredients in the Zostavax (shingles) vaccine: MSG, neomycin, bovine calf serum, sucrose, and hydrolyzed porcine gelatin.
October 27, 2011
Dear Vivian,
How do we take all these vitamins during the day? Are there specific hours for them or a multivamin would do just fine?
Thank you for all the good advice.
March 24, 2013
They are in your food. Just make sure you eat foods with them.
October 27, 2011
After completing chemo and radiation for breast cancer, I had a flu shot the following fall. I then succumbed to the flu! I was sick off and on for over 2 months. Since that time, I have not had a shot and have had what I describe and as a normal cold, maybe once a winter. Lasting about the typical 5 days. There was a time when growing up that it was a common occurrence and people didn’t freak out about it. Since getting onto “The Saving our Bones” program, juicing, and exercising , I feel well armed to face this winter. Thank you to Vivian for your help in guiding me to a healthier physical self, without all of the hysteria the medical community is promoting!
October 23, 2011
My Aunt (age 87) had a flu shot and a couple days later had to be sent to hospital by ambulance as she passed out. She was very dehydrated and had a terrible bladder infection. (Never had one before.) They took all the standard tests, and couldn’t find anything else wrong.
She is still in hospital a couple days later and only able to eat jello and decaf coffee due to feeling sick.
She said Dr.s office talked her into the shot, and she hadn’t had the flu for years or been sick like this.
The health care profession claims her illness isn’t related. I don’t think I agree.
November 10, 2012
Up till about 7-years ago, my mother (who is type II diabetic) would faithfully get her flu shot. That last time she got one though within half an hour she was experiencing numbness around her mouth. We called the Advice Nurse and was told to keep a watch and if the numbness spread to come into ER. She had a stroke that weakened her right side and spent a few months regaining her strength. Doctors were devided as to whether or not the flu shot had anything to do with it so we choose to build our immune system instead.
October 23, 2011
I’m sooo glad I saw your article-I’ve been on the fence about a flu shot for YEARS-ever since I got a shot when my girls were young and ended up sicker than I’ve ever been (2 weeks)!!! I’m a cancer survivor and recently broke a leg and then my hip-now the drs. want me to take meds for my bones and they are a bit “miffed” because I don’t want to take any of those things! I want to try to do things the nutritional way if I can. At some point soon I will be requesting your “program”-right now I don’t have a printer anymore to download anything. Thanks sooo much for your interest in these subjects-it’s a big help to me and I’m sure, to many others. Eileen
October 23, 2011
Vivian’s book says to try to eat 80 % fruits and veggies, and 20 % meat and dairy. Try to cut out the sugar and chocolate. Hard to do. But it’s good to be aware of it. In the book she gets more specific and lists the foods as alkali or acid producing. Some of the foods may surprise you, and all grains are also in the acid group. Acid eats your bones. That is it in a nutshell.
October 27, 2011
In response to Rosemary, I do understand the pull meat and dariy has on all of us. However, I believe the 20% allowance is very generous. I have been diagnoised with osteporous and prostrate cancer so I am strongly motivated. The last two years I have been eating nearly a plant baised diet–aiming for 75% raw. My wife still uses eggs in baking, occassionally some meat flavored broth in soup and stews. I do have an egg or teo a month.With this motivation the problem has become social—what do you serve family and friends and eating at their home with minimum disruption?
October 20, 2011
Thank you so much for the updates they are really really good, plseas dont stop sending. Im in UK so products are different but the medical blur is the same.
October 19, 2011
i have no intention of ever having flu jabs … simple as that…
October 18, 2011
Some are saying that the vaccine is not live…. It is my understanding that the Nasal inhaled spray is a single serve, LIVE form, with no preservatives. And the shot, given to children under fiver and many adults is not live and contains Thimerosal as a preservative.
Also, will you be revising this list according to the new information this week about “the 10 supplements that ’cause’ earlier death in women”: zinc and magnesium were on that list….
October 20, 2011
Mg and Zinc cause earlier death in women? And who came up with this astounding information? What studies were done? I’d like to run this one down. Just off the top of my head, I have to say I don’t believe for a heartbeat. It would have to be a darn good study and take into account way too many variables. I will put some effort into reading on it, but please tell me where to go to find it.
Thanks,
Sharon
October 17, 2011
Hi Vivian,
You did not mention an allergy to eggs.I have a lot of allergies and almost died from a Bobiva shot. There is no way I would go for flu shot. How about other people.Am interested in you thoughts about this. Janet
October 27, 2011
I am also allergic and there has not been doctor who asks me to have a flu shot. They are all afraid of the possible reaction and possible death I could suffer as a result.
October 17, 2011
all very well, but the most important info is that no so-called flu virus has ever been scientifically found nor isolated.
these so called viruses were a theory, that is all. repeating a theory 1 million times doesn’t make it true! you have to prove it first. no scientist has done that….
why on earth would anybody want to inject poison into their body for something NO ONE has ever found…….!
check out http://de.narkive.com/2006/2/22/1528856-unite-info-251en-1-2-stefan-lanka-interview-on-equot.html
and
http://de.narkive.com/2006/2/22/1528857-unite-info-251en-2-2-stefan-lanka-interview-on-equot.html
for more detailed info
October 17, 2011
Is it possible to rebuild cartlege in your knees??
January 8, 2013
Yes, it is possible to rebuild cartilage in the knees of some individuals (myself included). Glucosomine and Chondroitin (750mg and 500mg respectively) twice a day can rebuild it slowly if you still have some cartilage present when you start. You need to take it, drink plenty of water, and exercise the knee (which moves the nutrients to the joint). For myself, it took a month to notice a change, and 2 months for complete recovery (bones no longer clicking together). You then have to continue taking the medication for the rest of your life (this was verified with my orthopedic doctor). I went from a clicking knee joint and a prospect of limited athletic capabilities to 10 years, so far, of competitive sports with no knee problems. You can get a year’s worth of your medication for approx. $100 annually, with reputable online supplements; as opposed to much more expensive local pharmacies. These are non-prescription.
October 17, 2011
I have Rhumatoid Arthritis and have been told to always get the flu shot since I take methotrexate and my immune system is so low. If I don’t take the flu shot, doesn’t that make me vulnerable to catching the flu?
March 24, 2013
No, if you got the flu shot it would make it more likely you will die from the flu. My friend was forced into the flu shot because he has massive health problems. Guess what a week later he was sick with the flu and I got to do the I told you so dance around him. Now hopefully he will never get the flu shot again.
October 17, 2011
My daughter who is 10 1/2 yrs old had the flu intranasal vaccine last yr. We had an appointment with her pediatrician for a routine check up and he insisted that she receive the flu vaccine. She nor anyone in our family have ever had the flu or the flu vaccine before. Within a few months, my daughter came down with flu A. Then I contracted the flu as well. It completely wiped out our immune systems. We have never been that sick for such a long period in our lives. She kept getting more viral infections with the most horrible headaches and stomach pains. She and I also both had double pink eye infections at least twice and I’ve never had one before. We developed sinus infections and the stomach virus also. We were unfortunately very sick for months. I went to the ER 2 times due to my heart rate rising to 150 and my BP skyrocketing. I am typically a healthy 39 yr old woman who has thankfully never battled with my BP or pulse before, but I now know how horrible, scary and potentially life threatening that can be. My right pupil stayed dialated and I was constantly shaking even when I didn’t feel cold. The flu really threw my circulatory and nervous system out of whack. I couldn’t sleep due to my body jerking all the time and I couldn’t eat because I completely lost my appetite for several weeks. My body was so drained and weak. Many times I felt like I was going to pass out. I drank a lot of water and eventually was able with God’s help to drink Naked protein juice drinks. I had a CT scan of my head for the horrible pressure headaches that lingered and my Dr. sent me to a Neurologist as well, but he didn’t find anything abnormal with me. He and my PCP believed that my body was still recovering from the flu, and it was just taking me much longer to overcome it. My daughter and I both tested positive for flu A, but it’s strange that it didn’t seem to affect my respiratory system as much as it did some of my other systems. I coughed some but minimally compared to my daughter and others. I was so weak that at one point my eye sight became very blurry for a little while also. I believe I am a walking miracle to have survived such an illness and I am forever grateful for life and recovery! I know all that my family endured was for a reason and we have much heartfelt compassion for others who have been plagued with sickness. This yr I have resolved that my family will not receive the flu vaccine. We will consume more healthy foods and supplements and of course pray! I would also like to add that I could not drink any caffeinated beverages at all for many mths because they over-stimulated my nervous system. Even now, 9 mths later, I still can’t drink much regular tea because it’s a little too stimulating. It’s much healthier to drink my herbal teas and decaffeinated beverages anyway, so that’s fine with me. Many symptoms I have experienced remain a mystery to me. Doctors could not find any underlying medical conditions in me, but I still don’t understand why I had the symptoms and great hardships on my way to recovery. I know that I never want to have to deal with the flu again. It’s extremely difficult trying to get well and caring for your children at the same time when they are sick. Seeing them suffer is the hardest of all when you feel helpless at times. We do all that we know to do and trust God with the rest. My journey this year has been a very physically and emotionally challenged & exhausted one, but I am expecting a much better one in 2012.
October 17, 2011
I follow SOBs routine recommendations quite faithfully. I would like some advice re stress fractures. I was just diagnosed with a stress fracture in my left foot. 3 years ago I had a stress fracture in the right foot. I had been walking 3to4times weekly for weight bearing exercise wearing recommended shoes plus orthodics. I am 5’5″ and 126 lbs.
October 17, 2011
I am 74years old. I had my last flu shot in l969. During the period of 1970 and present I suffered from the flu three times.
All those years I didn’t even consider having a flu shot but this year, I sort of on the fence with it.
Thanks to your articles and the feedback you received, I now know which way to go and put this subject to bed.
October 17, 2011
Oct 17, 2011
I am 60 years old, in NYC and recuperating from the flu right now (10th day).
I experienced every classic symptom of this nasty swine flu and believe I was very healthy going into it. I am basicly a vegan, take all my supplements, probiotics, exercise, and this flu came on strong. I was not planning on getting a flu shot but now I am not so sure. The cough aspect of this flu is frightening. Would not want to have it again. Thoughts?
October 17, 2011
Thank you so much for this article. Again this year, I’ve been feeling a low level of guilt for not getting the flu shot. I have not had a flu shot since 1977, and after this very informative piece, I will continue avoiding getting one. I’ve had only one or two flu cases in all these years, and those years my immune system was low for other reasons. Besides your article, this year, the potential danger of flu shots was brought home to me by one of my students. She is a woman in her fifties, and she is in one of my community college classes. She missed a couple of classes recently…not liker her…and when she came back told me she had, for the first time in her life, received a flu shot. And, for the first time in her life, had a horrible case of the flu. I think I’ll stay the course of non-compliance when it comes to the flu shot hype. What with all of the fear-mongering around not only getting flu shots but going on so many other kinds of medications for this or for that, I’ve developed this attitude: my goal has been to get off and stay off the pharmaceutical panic grid as much as I possibly can. I try to live a healthy lifestyle, and stay away from bad foods. I like sweets, unfortunately, but your reminder, here, has given me new motivation to reduce those, too. Blessings and thanks.
October 17, 2011
I made a previous comment thimerosal. I used to get the flu shot, although not every year, until the hype about the avian flu scare. There seemed to be way too much alarming talk and way too much profit motive involved. I very quickly lost any trust in its value and had doubts about its safety. Your article was very informative, except about the issue of mercury being a problem because it is part of thimerosal. Thanks for the article.
October 17, 2011
I would be more interested in Thimerosal itself, rather than the fact that it is a compound containing mercury. Eating sodium would be very damaging, but sodium chloride is ubiquitous in our food. When an element is part of a compound, it does not necessarily have any of the same activity as it does when in the free state.
October 14, 2011
Hi Vivian, I recently started taking Magnesium.Dr. Al Sears also recommends Magnesium to his patients. He says it’s also good for your heart! I’m also taking zinc. I would like to try Aloe Vera Juice.
Thank you for your recommendations.
Gloria
October 10, 2011
I got the flu shot on 28th Sept and next day I had a high temp.The next day I was in bed with sore throat pains and aches and a headache. To-day is my first day feeling better. I will never get the flu shot again. Norah
October 17, 2011
Nora, sorry you felt bad after flu shot! However the flu shot is synthetic, and does not have a live virus in it.. You should have been told that it takes two weeks BEFORE the vaccine takes affect. If you have been exposed to the flu prior to your flu shot, you can still come down with the flu!!!..The flu shot is given to help PREVENT a worse case of the flu! LIKE ALL VACCINES!! ITS TO HELP PREVENT YOU FROM GETTING IT!!!!!! IT DOES NOT SAY YOU WON”T GET IT!!!!!!! Years ago it was a live virus in the flu shot!! But now its a synthetic…CAN NOT GET THE FLU FROM THE FLU SHOT…Maybe you were exposed prior to it or you could of had a reaction to chicken eggs or the something else in this years formulation!!! The flu shot is still a good thing to get—especially as we age, and don’t get the proper nutrition in our diet! ..The flu shot is an individual decision, don’t let anyone tell you what to do.,.make the decision yourself!
October 5, 2011
Vivian: My question is answered as to whether to continue getting a flu shot. I’ve had one every year for over 15 years with no ill effects. I think I’m not getting colds and flu from the way I eat and the supplements I take. So no more flu shots for me.