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3-D Living Newsletter - October, 2009 Issue
October 1, 2009
Welcome to the October issue of the 3-D Living Newsletter! I hope you are enjoying the crisp fall weather where you are. This time of year usually includes "cold and flu season" but this year we are being bombarded with dire swine flu warnings. This SPECIAL EDITION will focus on information so you are well informed and provide you with tips to stay healthy.
In this issue:
ANN'S ARTICLES: "Swine Flu - What You Need to Know" and "Tips for Staying Healthy During Flu Season"
NUTRITION NUGGET: Garlic
SUPPLEMENT SPOTLIGHT: Cat's Claw
FEATURED PRODUCTS: Vir-u-Sure and Immuno-Max
WORD TO THE WISE: Proverbs 4:20-22
ANN'S ARTICLE: "SWINE FLU - WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW"
Everywhere you look and pretty much everything you hear centers around swine flu lately. There is talk of mandatory vaccinations of health care workers and school children; seniors, pregnant women and very young children are always the prime candidates for vaccinations of this type. But is this the best answer? I am not a doctor nor am I an infectious disease expert. However, I believe it is very important to get as much information as possible in order to make the best decision. Personally, I have never had a flu shot and don't plan to start now. We can certainly go back and forth on this issue and depending upon your personal beliefs we may just have to agree to disagree. However, I will share some information, as well as my suggestions for staying healthy this fall and winter. As always, this decision and your health are your responsibility.
First of all, have you ever asked your doctor whether he or she gets a flu shot every year? The answer may surprise you. Dr. Donald Miller, a cardiac surgeon and Professor of Surgery at the University of Washington, recommends avoiding the flu shot and taking vitamin D instead. According to Dr. Miller, “Seventy percent of doctors do not get a flu shot.” Official health statistics tell us 36,000 people will die from the flu EVERY winter. But the National Vital Statistics Reports compiled by the CDC reveals only 1,138 of those deaths occur due to the flu alone. The balance are caused by pneumonia, heart attacks and other underlying causes such as bacterial infections.
Dr. John Cannell and his colleagues have theorized that the flu is merely a symptom of vitamin D deficiency. Their theory was further proven by researchers who suggested that flu epidemics are the result of a dormant disease which is activated by vitamin D deficiency. It seems logical since our flu season happens in the fall and winter months, when we have fewer hours of sunlight.
All vaccines carry a risk no matter how "safe" they are said to be. The vaccine being produced specifically for the swine flu or H1N1 virus is being “fast tracked.” That means it is being pushed through testing and approval phases and therefore we will not have adequate information as to its long and short term safety. That is a huge concern. Back in 1976 – the last swine flu epidemic – 25 people died - solely as a result of the vaccine. That was more than the actual number who died from the virus itself! And it triggered 500 cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome, a serious brain disorder that attacks the lining of nerves and can cause temporary paralysis and death. Many experts have similar concerns about this new vaccine.
To read four excellent articles that give more detail about other alarming concerns about this vaccine visit these links: http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2009/09/08/Another-Shocking-Warning-About-Swine-Flu-Vaccine.aspx and
http://www.naturalnews.com/027037_swine_flu_H1N1_vaccines.html
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2009/09/24/IV-Vitamin-C-Used-to-Recover-Terminal-Swine-Flu-Case.aspx
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2009/09/26/Flu-Vaccine-Exposed.aspx
Many experts are voicing concerns about the long term risks of this fast tracked vaccine in healthy people and whether those risks are justified, particularly when all the evidence shows that this H1N1 flu is a mild strain. The Vaccine Adverse Effect Reporting System of the U.S. Food & Drug Administration receives around 11,000 "serious adverse reaction" reports per year. Serious reactions are defined as death, life-threatening illness, hospitalization, or disability resulting from a vaccine. The FDA admits that in all probability only about 10% of adverse reactions are actually reported.
30-50% of people infected with flu have mild or no symptoms at all and the vast number of people clear it on their own. We have to also keep in mind everyone is biochemically unique and we each react differently to drugs and treatments. The risk-benefit is different for everyone - so one size, so to speak, cannot fit all. Another statistic to consider is this: 436 people have died as a result of swine flu; 200,000 deaths occur annually from medical errors.
If all that was not enough to make your head spin, just how effective are flu shots? Preparing vaccines for the coming flu season is an annual guessing game. There are typically 200 to 300 different flu virus strains, while the vaccine usually contains antigens of only a few. (Antigens are molecules that trigger a specific immune response.) More often than not the vaccine doesn't contain antigens of the most virulent strains that season.
The following article will contain my suggestions for natural flu and cold virus prevention. The most important recommendation I can make right now is this: EDUCATE YOURSELF. Once you know the truth you will not be swayed by fear tactics. There will be many voices trying to get you to respond out of fear. We are never to make decisions, or do anything for that matter, out of fear. That is a position of weakness. The Lord tells us repeatedly to fear not. My suggestion is educate yourself and once you understand the facts, dig for the truth of the matter, which may not be obvious. Then whatever decision you make, do it in faith.
ANN'S ARTICLE: "TIPS FOR STAYING HEALTHY DURING FLU SEASON"
Common sense is your first, most important tool! So let’s begin there with these 3 basics:
WASH YOUR HANDS
Use plain soap and water as antibacterial soaps create resistant bugs. (Hand sanitizers when you can't wash are ok) This one tip alone can go a long way in protecting you since it decreases your chances of spreading a virus to yourself (through touching your mouth or nose) or to others. Of course coughing or sneezing into a tissue or your sleeve is also basic to avoid spreading the flu or a cold. For another excellent alternative to hand sanitizers visit
https://shop.sixwise.com/index.asp PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=268
STAY WARM
This is very important when fighting a cold or flu virus as bodily warmth increases the activity of your immune system. This is also why a low grade fever is your body’s way of fighting sickness and shouldn’t be immediately stopped. Getting into a warm bath and soaking is a great way to allow the warmth to penetrate your body.
GET ADEQUATE SLEEP AND REST
A fatigued body cannot fight viral invaders effectively! Your immune system is depressed when you’re tired.
Now to some tips you may not be aware of that can help your body’s immune system stay strong and protect you from the germs and viruses you will inevitably come in contact with:
AVOID SUGAR AND PROCESSED FOODS - ALKALIZE!
As I’ve mentioned before – sugar depresses your immune system – exactly what you DON’T want to do. Eating according to the 3-D Living Plan will keep your system strong. You want to keep your pH balanced since disease, including viruses, cannot live in an oxygenated, alkaline environment! Using a green food like spirulina is a great way to alkalize. Spirulina also increases levels of antibodies in the mouth and nose where these viruses gain entrance!
(For more info on acid/alkaline balance, see Balancing Your pH for Perfect Health at http://www.threedimensionalvitality.com/For_Your_Information.html)
MANAGE STRESS AND STAY IN JOY
Stress is part of everyday life – when it becomes overwhelming and constant, it breaks down your body making it less able to fight off invaders. There are different techniques you can use – prayer and meditation are among the best and I recommend you practice them daily. Nehemiah 8:10 tells us that the joy of the Lord is our strength. Make it a point to practice an attitude of gratitude, laugh and smile and enjoy each day. Laughter all by itself is a powerful medicine as I discussed in a previous newsletter!
EXERCISE AND STRETCH - STAY ACTIVE
Keeping your blood flowing, oxygenating your body and staying strong will go a long way to keeping you healthy even when those around you seem to be falling like flies! Exercise is a great stress reducer, increases your circulation, makes you sweat, which releases toxins, makes you breathe heavily so you take in plenty of oxygen and helps circulate lymphatic fluid moving toxins out of your body. In fact, some studies have shown that frequent, gentle rebounding (as little as 2-3 minutes 4 times a day) can halt the onset of a cold. The only caution is that if you feel tired or weak – don’t overdo it or push yourself. Listen to your body.
STAY HYDRATED
Be sure to drink adequate clean water daily! I recommend one-half your body weight in ounces every day as a minimum. Water helps your body detoxify itself and helps alkalize your system.
OK, now here are some other SPECIFIC SUPPLEMENTS and SUGGESTIONS you may consider including in your arsenal:
1. OPTIMIZE YOUR VITAMIN D INTAKE.
This is the #1 best strategy for avoiding infection in general and specifically the flu. Remember many experts now believe the flu is basically a Vitamin D deficiency.
2. USE A PROTEASE ENZYME.
Flu is a protein so taking a protease enzyme between meals on an empty stomach has been shown to break down these protein invaders allowing the immune system to more effectively clear them from your blood. Combining these first two steps is a great one-two punch.
3. VITAMIN C
This vitamin is essential to the functioning of your white blood cells which fight disease. You can bump up the effectiveness by pairing this vitamin with a teaspoon of raw, unheated honey which has antimicrobial effects, three times a day.
4. ELDERBERRY EXTRACT (SAMBUCOL)
This is widely available and studies have shown it to stimulate the immune system, inhibiting human flu virus types A and B, animal strains from swine and turkeys and to reduce the symptoms and duration of flu by about four days.
5. OSCILLOCOCCINUM
This is a homeopathic remedy for flu prevention that many find very effective if taken at the first sign of flu.
6. OLIVE LEAF EXTRACT
This has been shown to be an excellent herb that fights bacterial and viral infections.
7. GRAPEFRUIT LEAF
Grapefruit leaves are effective antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-parasitic. It’s very bitter so I suggest you either take it in capsule form or use grapefruit seed extract – one or two drops on your toothpaste when you brush your teeth. One bottle will last almost forever.
8. GARLIC
You can take it in supplement form or use chopped raw garlic in your salad. It is a powerful protector and delicious too. (More about it in the Nutrition Nugget!)
9. BE PROACTIVE WITH PROBIOTICS
A great deal of your immune system resides in your gut so protect it with a good probiotic source and include fermented vegetables, foods like miso and tempeh as well as yogurt and kefir – but only plain and unsweetened.
10. GARGLE
Rinsing your throat (and nasal passages for that matter!) with a simple saline solution is a great way to wash away these bugs. You can also put 2 drops of Oil of Oregano into your plain water – gargle and swallow for even more protection.
11. ECHINACEA
This herb, when taken at the very first sign of cold or flu, boosts the immune system.
12. HERBAL TEAS
These caffeine-free teas will add to your hydration and many have very effective immune boosting properties. One of the best is Tulsi or Holy Basil Tea, which is being studied for it’s ability to improve your body’s overall defense mechanisms, including its ability to fight viral diseases, help speed up recovery process if you get swine flu and strengthen the immune system. Using a small amount of raw, unheated honey to sweeten it just increases the antiviral benefits! If you have lung congestion fenugreek seed tea and thyme tea are great natural remedies.
13. SELENIUM*
When you are deficient in this trace mineral you become much more susceptible to the flu. New studies are showing that taking larger doses can help your body fight off a virus. The normal dose is 50-200 mcg. IF you are fighting the flu you can safely take up to 800 mcg. for 3 days. *It's important to use food based rather than synthetic form - your body recognizes it and uses it effectively. If you need a source email me and I'll be happy to give you one.
14. COCONUT OIL
Use virgin coconut oil to cook your eggs in the morning or even spread on some whole grain bread. It is a very healthy fat which contains lauric acid and has antiviral and antimicrobial properties.
There are other things you can also have on hand like a good brand of colloidal silver, red marine algae, beta glucans, nucleotides, colostrum and bee propolis. All these are natural immune system boosters that will strengthen your body’s defenses naturally. To learn more about some of them read the article "Cold and Flu Prevention Strategies" at http://www.threedimensionalvitality.com/For_Your_Information.html
FINALLY: I encourage you to stay calm and not allow hysteria and fear to be the motivating factors for the steps you choose to take. Even though it appears swine flu continues to spread, remember it is typically a mild illness, and most cases resolve with no medical care at all. Whichever of these suggestions you decide to use, remember whatever you do, do it in faith, trusting God not only to lead and guide you but to protect you as well.
NUTRITION NUGGET: GARLIC
Garlic has been used throughout history, from biblical times, for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Its pungent, spicy flavor bumps up the flavor of almost any dish. One clove a day provides you with vitamins A, B and C and the minerals selenium, iodine, potassium, iron, calcium, zinc and magnesium.
It has long been regarded as a powerhouse super food able to prevent disease and wipe out unwanted viral invaders.
You get the most benefit from garlic's active compounds when you eat it fresh. The cloves must be crushed or chopped to release the allicin and it's best to wait 10-15 minutes to allow it to develop fully before eating.
Besides being an excellent antioxidant, protecting against cancer and heart disease and acting as an antifungal agent, garlic is a safe, natural antibiotic which effectively fights against viruses, bacteria and parasites, but without the side effects of pharmaceutical antibiotics. Recent research found daily intake of garlic reduced the risk of catching cold by 50% and shortened the duration of a cold as well.
Here's a potent anti-viral recipe courtesy of Dr. Richard Schulze: put a variety of organic hot peppers (whichever you like), rinsed and chopped into a blender. Add the peeled cloves of one (or more) head of garlic; add extra virgin olive oil and blend until it has the consistency of a paste. Use it as a condiment on vegetables and meat or a spread for whole grain bread. Take it at the first sign of a cold and it will have no chance to take hold! My addition is to substitute coconut oil for some of the EVOO to bump up the germ fighting power! Keep in a sealed jar in the refrigerator.
SUPPLEMENT SPOTLIGHT: CATS CLAW
This herb is known to stimulate the immune system by cleansing and detoxing the lymph fluid, cleanse and thin blood, fight inflammation and protect against cell mutation. It has been proven in research since the 1970's to possess antioxidant, antiviral, antidepressant, diuretic, pain-relieving, detoxifying, anti-inflammatory and anti-tumorous properties.
FEATURED PRODUCTS:
Immuno-Max
Many plants naturally support your body's immune system and aid in building the defense support your cells need. Immuno-Max contains immune supporting foods like aloe vera, green tea extract, astragalus, CAT'S CLAW, self-heal, colostrum and Immune Enhancer AG. This is an excellent product to keep on hand at all times.
Vir-U-Sure
This product is natural support for all types of viruses from cold sores, shingles, mono and herpes to the flu! The natural ingredients (red marine algaes, neem extract, olive leaf extract, oregano oil powder, cholozyme and spirulina) support your body's ability to fight viruses; increase its ability to suppress viruses' strength and limit their impact on your body.
To order either product call 1-888-747-6733 and use sale code 11379 to receive your 20% discount and get set up as a preferred customer. Subsequent orders can then be placed online by visiting http://www.phporder.com/11379. You'll then receive the same 20% discount on ALL subsequent orders!
WORD TO THE WISE: Proverbs 4:20-22 New Living Translation:
"My child, pay attention to what I say.
Listen carefully to my words.
Don’t lose sight of them.
Let them penetrate deep into your heart,
for they bring life to those who find them,
and healing to their whole body."
God's Word is the most potent anti-viral, disease fighting medicine known to man! I saved my most important and effective health and healing strategy for last: SPEAK GOD'S WORD OVER YOURSELF! I suggest you make a list of scriptures from the Word that have to do with health and healing and speak them over yourself daily. That will strengthen your spirit, which in turn strengthens your soul and body. If you need some specific scriptures, email me and I'll be happy to send you some.
**I invite you to sign up for my friend, Rob Clinton's wonderful free weekly newsletter. His insightful, practical articles will uplift and encourage you. He has graciously invited me to contribute health articles which will also appear twice a month. It's free - just go to www.180coach.com, and click the registry button in the top left.**
If you enjoyed this issue of the 3-D Living Newsletter, please forward it to anyone you know who will benefit from it. They'll love you for it! If a friend forwarded this issue to you - just go here to get your own free subscription: http://www.threedimensionalvitality.com/Welcome.html.
Until next month, as always, I wish you abundant health, peace and joy and I call you BLESSED! Ann
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