BEYOND THE CDC – The Naturopathic Approach: Immune Support 

If you have any the following preexisting health conditions you may be at a higher risk of developing complications from COVID-19: autoimmune disease, are taking immunosuppressant medication, diabetes, hypertension, asthma, COPD, steroids or are undergoing chemotherapy.  We can create individualized protocols for you if you fit into the high risk category.  Please call to schedule a phone appointment.  928-774-1770

Below are respiratory & immune boosting strategies for prevention for adults.  Pregnant or breastfeeding women and children can call the clinic for a modified protocol that is age/weight appropriate.  Before using the below immune protocol, consult with your healthcare provider to be sure these nutrients are safe for your condition and will not interfere with your medications.  We are happy to do phone consults if you are unsure.

Adult ​​​​Short term protocol: 1-3 months max

  1. Good Hydration –  Stanford hospital board reported hydration is currently the #1 treatment because it helps keep your mucus thinned and flowing instead of stuck and congested.  Always keep mouth and throat moist, never dry, by taking a few sips of water every 15 minutes.  Drinking warm water will move the virus down your GI tract where your stomach acid will kill it versus down your airways.  Gargling with warm water nightly will help support the mucosa of your mouth and throat.  Recommended daily dose of water = 1/2 your body weight in ounces.
  2. Mucolytics
    1. NAC or Mucinex (guaifenesin without dextromethorphan)
      1. Mucinex (NOT DM) 500mg 2x daily with at least 16 ounces of water
      2. NAC 500-1000mg 3x daily with meals
    2. What NOT to take – Sudafed, Dayquil pseudoephedrine containing medications will dry out your mucus membranes rather than help your body’s natural immune function by allowing mucus to flow.
  3. Vitamin C 1000mg 3x daily with meals to bowel tolerance.
  4. Zinc 15mg 3x daily with food.
    1. Vitamin Code Raw Zinc by Garden of Life will not make you nauseous if lozenges make you nauseous.
  5. Vitamin D3 5,000 – 10,000 IU daily with food.
  6. Vitamin A 25,000 IU daily with food (this is not a safe dose for children or pregnant women).  Symptoms of sudden vitamin A overdose include increased pressure in the space between the skull and the brain, nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, and skin peeling.
  7. Elderberry Syrup 1 tablespoon 3x daily with food.
    1. Though controversial for a time based most effective part of plant for COVID-19 however, the resolution is that it is still benefitial.
  8. Probiotics – 1 cap 3x daily with food.

Echinacea is not recommended in autoimmune diseases, and if taken is only beneficial in the first few days.

You can order the above supplements from Wellevate, our online dispensary through your doctor’s link:

Dietary Considerations

  • Avoid sugar and alcohol as they will deplete your immune function for 4-6 hours after 1 serving.  This gives the virus a headstart while you immune system is suppressed.
  • Avoid dairy products if you get sick as regardless of allergy, it is mucus forming and will thicken your mucus.
  • DO EAT more brightly colored vegetables and fruits for the antioxidants and nutrient dense vitamins & minerals they provide to support every body system.

Lifestyle Consideration

  • Good Sleep Hygiene is your first defense – ideally 8-10 hours per night.
  • Fresh air is key for mental health and lung function, get outside and get some exercise daily. Change the air over in your house as well to release toxins and carbon dioxide that build up from cooking and breathing.
  • Warming sock treatment – home hydrotherapy.  Click this link for how to do yours at home.  WarmingSocksSelfCare.docx

Please feel free to contact us with any questions you might have.

If you have any questions related to your existing appointment or to schedule a new appointment, please call us at 928-774-1770.

Thank you for doing your part by following the CDC recommendations and those set forth by the Flagstaff Clinic of Naturopathic Medicine.

Stay healthy and hydrated.  We are here for you.

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