The notion that we catch colds is based on the “Germ Theory.” However, is this the correct way of thinking of [our] health or illness?  Often times we focus more on germs rather than on the host, the person.  If the person is healthy, which is an optimally functioning body then the germs will not be able to survive.  Germs are opportunistic; they look for a safe place to live which is an unhealthy and poorly functioning body.  However, our bodies are self-healing and self-regulating.  The system that controls the body is the Central Nervous System. When operating at full capacity, the human body is an incredible thing of beauty. For example, if you fall and scrape your knee, the body heals itself.  This is the work of the Central Nervous System. Pretty unbelievable stuff when you think about it.

When you get sick, in most cases, the first symptom is usually not the beginning of the flu.  Do you remember staying home from school when you were sick and then returning to school when you were feeling better? From that experience, we learned to think of illness as having obvious symptoms. This belief is now hurting us; most of us who get sick frequently have a poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle. However, true health is how well our bodies work, not how we feel.

In order to stay healthy through the cold and flu season, you need to start now. You have a natural medicine cabinet inside your body.  True health is optimum physical, mental and social well-being; not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

Here are some simple tips that I recommend to my patients: drink more water, get more sleep, eat nutritious foods and exercise regularly.  Stop smoking and reduce your alcohol intake.
For adults you need to reduce your stress.  Daily stress lowers your immune system. According to an study published by Yale University on May 29, 2005, the single biggest predictor of adding years to your life was being positive.  A positive mental attitude not only boosts your immune system, it can add seven years to your life. 
For mothers who are nursing, keep up the good work.  Your infant will receive passive immunity. 

Children should reduce the amount of processed foods, food coloring and sugar from their diet.  These are all immune suppressors.  In addition, let your kids play outside.  The sun is a natural form of Vitamin D.  Vitamin D plays an important role in a healthy immune system. 

Virtually every healthy habit produces even bigger dividends when you have a properly working nervous system.

Dr. Franklin Luke is a wellness chiropractor at River City Chiropractic