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 (https://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 (https://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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
I didn’t mean great grandmother I don’t know why I typed that. She is just my grandmother
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.
They are in your food. Just make sure you eat foods with them.
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!
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.
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.
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
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.
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?
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.
i have no intention of ever having flu jabs … simple as that…
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….
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
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
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.
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 https://de.narkive.com/2006/2/22/1528856-unite-info-251en-1-2-stefan-lanka-interview-on-equot.html
and
https://de.narkive.com/2006/2/22/1528857-unite-info-251en-2-2-stefan-lanka-interview-on-equot.html
for more detailed info
Is it possible to rebuild cartlege in your knees??
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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!
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.
After reading all the posts about the flu shot,I will not be getting one this year… I never did yet, but I was thinking about it this year..Not any more….Thank you all for your thoughts….
Your information on the Flu vaccine was very informative. I am a nutritionist and homeopath and I have clients always asking about this important question . What do you think about the HPV vaccine which is being so widely touted for young girls and women? Thank you for you insight.
What is the name of the article you read for HPV for young girls and women? I’m interested in hearing Vivian’s info. on it. Also, where do I find it? Thanks.
The HPV vaccines are now ban.
I am just reading about flu shots, and I am now concerned about other vaccinations. I am going to Africa (Kenya) in December. I want to know what you think of all the vaccinations that the CDC recommends. How will this effect your bone health. What to do???
I only knew five children in my entire life who ever came down with pertussis. All five of them came down with the deadly disease shortly after immunization (DPT).
Shortly before my children went to college, most of the college was out with measles. I was one of the few rogues who delayed immunization for my children until near college age. Almost every person who came down with measles had been immunized (as per state law) at some time before enrollment. None of my children came down with measles.
Only anecdotal evidence, but sometimes the anecdotes are more valid than twisted and falsified statistics.
wonderful article! Thank you!
Lots of great information
Thank for review of the flu shot. This is second year without the shot. May once a year get something but never last and do not have to take anything. Most of my friends take the flu shot but and are sicker then i have every been. It is hard but I am in good health still and am very thankful. Thank you for you info and i am learning to like mushrooms will try the stir have eaten tofu but not sure it is a favorat food to me and most of my friends do not like nor will they eat it. Just the name may be there issue not sure. Thank you.
Thanks for all your excellent info. I don’t take flu shots.I know I need supplements & have been trying to figure out which brands & amounts. Your “FLU” article has answered many questions and I’m going to order from the sites you have listed. I’ve already told my doc that food is my “medicine.” What do you think about taking Algaecal?? https://www.algaecal.com/algaecal-bone-health-program.html Your are a blessing to this 72 yr old! About 4 months ago a car hit my car and now I’m having terrible pain in my left knee.I’ve been having natural physical therapy so I can walk on my leg. It may last a week & starts back up again. How long should I do therapy?
Hi Betty,
I’m sorry to hear about your accident and wish you a speedy recovery! I really can’t tell you how long to do therapy — your therapist knows the ins and outs of your condition and would be the best person to make an assessment.
And AlgaeCal is an excellent plant-based organic calcium formula. Just take it without the Strontium Boost, as I’ve previously stated.
I totally agree not getting the flu shot….I remember being in the doctors office last year with a cough, I could not get rid of… the doctor asked me if I wanted the flu shot…I looked at her and said “Did you get the shot? She told me “NO”!…I then told her, well don’t want it either, and we both laughed.
Thanks again for your inspiring information, keep up the great work!!
I am a ‘senior-senior’ – mid-eithties. 50 years ago I had a flu shot and was promptly sick. Since that time, I have not had a flu shot, and have had flu only one time. No flu shots here! Best to you, from Patricia
I’ve had 3 flu shots in my life, and all three times I got something like the flu right away. I refuse them now, but I get extreme pushback from family, friends, doctors and doctor’s wives who are my friends. I have not had the flu since I quit taking the shots. I take D3 and other supplements instead.
I should like to order the Power book on bone building on sale shown as $67 American. But when I try to order, the price is almost double!! Please explain. I live in Australia
I like the article about the supplements we should take, but it seems like too many tablets to take. Is there any kind of multivitamin/supplement we can take that would be helpful to maintain good health?
I’m interested in good supplements. Is there one supplement that contains all the nutrients needed and can be fully absorbed by the human body?
Regarding the article on Flu shots and immunity, I have always thought the same and its great to have the dangers that vaccinations pose spelled out. One thing not mentioned to improve immunity is Echinacea. I have been growing echinacea angustifolia commercially for several years and take my own medicine. I simply grind the dried root in a coffee grinder and sprinkle some on my breakfast cereal. It works for me.
Cheers
Rob
I have been vacilating between Fosamax and Actonel, dr. says it is good to no stay on either on for more than 2 to 3 years. I had dental work done and my jaw bone is thinned be ecause of these supplements, so who do you believe what is best………mother nature..my family beieves is herbs, and home treatments for lots of things….my mom never got sick until she had a flu shot, and her health deteriorated at old age more so with meds. Pills for this and that.
She chose to be in a nursing home because of having the drs. and nurses there for security..and not having to be embarassed by her kids taking care of her. I see at times what she meant. Thing is she took care of us.
Have been reading for hours and hours, your written guide is very comprehensive and so imformative…I;ve just recently been advised that my DexaScan just taken, has shown no improvement but indicates a plateau has been reached since my last scan, and my physician has encouraged me to investigate Forteo as a treatment. I’ve been given a name and phone number to contact a person who instructs patients in the process of using Forteo. I read some information on the drug, and do not like what I read. Especially the daily injections for two years, with a potential for cancer. So I am treading water right now, as I have stopped my weekly dose of Alondronate/Sodium.
Your digital guide has opened my eyes! When I am able to purchase your book, I will certainly appreciate it.
Great article but please, please I have a very important question and only you can guide in the right direction. I have been diagnosed with Cholesterol, LDL is 139, doctor put me on Pravastati Sodium, 10mg. I heard that statins may cause pancreatic cancer. Is this true? Please help, should I stop this?
please resond.
Thank you, Stephanie
No offense, but what’s wrong with LDL of 139?
What about your HDL level and most importantly what is your triglyceride level as this has been proven to be the real indicator of possible problems rather than LDL. It’s the pharmaceutical companies that have found a way of making way too much money by convincing unsuspecting persons to scare them into taking worthless and dangerous concoctions.
Do your homework and don’t be afraid of reading alternative sources. You’ll be surprised.
Abstain from fast & prepared “foods. Stay away from sodas and fruit juices. Start eating fresh fruits and lots of vegetables, preferably organic.
I trust this helps you.
We have been trained to believe that the medical community, pharmaceutical companies and the government are always right. They aren’t!
There are actual cholesterol pills that would probably be better. I would say go to a better doctor and ask about that instead. As well as use google. When it comes to meds that is the only thing that should be googled in the case of health care though. (At least for the most part)
THANKS FOR YOUR WEB SITE .
T AGREE.
You’re absolutely right about the vaccination.
A few years ago my doctor insisted on my having it for flue and pneumonia. Just in 10 days after this I got the flue, much worse than the ones I had in previous years.Hardly had I got rid off the flue as I developed pneumonia. It was a shocking months of taking all kinds of tablets to get better.But this is not all. In a week I had another flue and in the following month I had another kind of pneumonia… No vaccines any more!
Having steered away from flu vacines I have just had an invitation from my dr. for a pheumonia jab. Just reading the previous statement, not sure what to do about this. I have a cough symdrome ( 15 years plus) so thought this was a good iead, but now I am not so sure.
Hello Vivian, I am really interested in everything I’m reading. I noticed the flu shot section completely by accident as I was most interested in reversing bone loss. I do have a comment. Going back approx. 20 years it seemed I would get severe bronchitis every year, sometimes more than once, and several times I was close to being addmitted to the hospital. For probably 10 years now I have been getting the flu shot and have not had one instance of bronchitis, sometimes mild flu symtoms but nothing that puts me in bed. So I am sceptical about quitting the practice, as I really felt so sick it was scary. Thanks for listening.
Truly, Chris Byrne
Hi Vivian,
Thanks for all the articles you have been sending me. Your article on the flu shot was of great interest to read as for years I have been against taking it until my doctor persuaded me to take the shots twice. I refused to take them from now on as after taking the 2nd one I came down with flu-like symptoms. I am 67 years of age and have always taken multi-vitamins and calcium with Vitamin D but have learnt that Vitamin D3 is best to take. Have you heard of a supplement called Tre-en-en by GNLD? This has been introduced to me by a friend and I am just wondering how beneficial this is. Thanks again for all your articles. Best wishes.
I am the mother of 4. We have never opted to take the flu-shot as we are an overall healthy family and aside from a once or twice incidence with the “24 hour stomach bug” when the kids were younger, have not dealt fortunately with “the flu”. My oldest and only daughter started college this year. On an academic scholarship and a top student at any University in the country she was fine and healthy and on her way. She got the seasonal flu shot based on the media hype and being in an environment “everyone needed the flu shot” this past October. Her life has changed. Within 8 hours she awoke with rash and fever, it has been a cycle of steroids, rheumatogists, fevers, and heartache since. A track potential she now has documented asthma and persistent heartburn because of the steroids necessary to control her fevers. QUESTION THE FLU SHOT AND THEN QUESTION IT AGAIN. If I could only go back to the phone call, Mom, everyone is getting the flu-shot and ___ can take me today. He is getting his too, do you think it’s OK? I can only hope my answer hasn’t permanently changed my babie’s life.
apparently, our beloved Dr. Oz makes lots of money off the flu shots being given, and apparently, his wife would not get the flu shot for her kids.
It is so clear to me – the big picture.
You say “The human body is fully equipped with mechanisms to stave off viruses and germs”
I’ve always understood that, left to nature, we only acquire natural immunity to many diseases by first getting them and THEN, if the immune system is operating effectively, recovering from them (e.g. measles and individual flu viruses) the antibodies produced in the process ensuring we don’t get them again. Your comments would be appreciated.
Not everyone reacts to Vitamin D supplementation in the same way. It may be actually interfering with the immune system in (so-called) autoimmune diseases.
https://autoimmunityresearch.org/index.html