Coronavirus Common Sense
A common sense approach to coronavirus
Viral pandemics are not new, but the nuances of each outbreak tend to differ somewhat and take time to figure out.
With the current Coronavirus outbreak (COVID 19) it’s become clear that individuals with underlying chronic health problems are more likely to experience serious pulmonary complications and even death when infected with the virus. The body’s ability to resist infection from viruses is hindered by deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals. Increased consumption of processed foods with minimal to no nutrient value and depletion of soil minerals has led to a significant depletion of critical vitamins and minerals in the general population.
A healthy immune system is the body’s best defense against infections such as viruses.
While viruses may cause initial symptoms such as the common cold or flu; they can then become dormant and hide within the body. While dormant the virus may not produce obvious symptoms but can lower our immunity and leave us feeling fatigued and run-down or even depressed.
Reactivation of viruses can happen due to poor diet, stress, digestive issues and when traveling particularly on crowded planes.
Antiviral medications may be helpful in some situations, but viruses can quickly become resistant to these drugs. Herbal and natural medicine remedies have been used for centuries and can be helpful without the side effects. Many natural supplements can be supportive for day-to-day use and are generally safe when taken on a long-term basis. For those of us who are more vulnerable to a viral infection, antiviral herbs and supplements can be beneficial.
1. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is critical for a healthy immune system and can become depleted with a poor diet or when fighting a dormant virus infection.
Recommended Dose: 500 mg daily or during an acute viral infection, because vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, you can safely dose high as 2,000 mg a day, taken with food. For significantly better absorption use a liposomal version of Vitamin C - 1,000mg 1-2 times daily. Much higher doses are recommended for serious health conditions but should only be used with a health care provider’s supervision.
2. Vitamin D3/K2
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is also essential for immune system health and a potent antiviral, reducing colds and flu by almost 50 percent! During winter months, particularly in the northern hemisphere, we do not get enough sunlight to provide us with vitamin D, so supplementation of vitamin D is important. Use a vitamin D3 that is combined with K2.
Recommended Dose: 1,000 – 5,000 IU daily. Caution, vitamin D is fat-soluble so you can become toxic if taking too much. Have your blood level checked to be sure you are on the right dose.
3. Zinc, iodine, Selenium and Magnesium
Zinc, iodine, selenium and magnesium have become increasingly deficient in our diet and are critical components of a healthy immune system. Because our food supply and soil have become so depleted in these minerals, I recommend supplementation in nutritional-doses, daily.
Recommended dose: Zinc Bisglycinate Chelate – 20 mg daily, Ancient Minerals, Magnesium Chloride, topical lotion – apply to the skin as directed on label, Selenium – 1 Brazil nut daily, Iodine – Kelp liquid or capsule 300 mcg daily. Consult with your healthcare provider if you have an autoimmune thyroid disorder.
3. Oregano Oil
Oregano oil is a powerful herbal medicine that acts as a strong antiviral and antimicrobial herb. The active components of oregano include thymol, carvacrol, and phenols. Oregano is also used in the treatment of Candida, E. coli, parasites, and protozoal infections.
Recommended dose 1 capsule daily.
4. Monolaurin
Monolaurin is derived from coconut oil and has antiviral and antimicrobial activity. It can disrupt the protective coatings of bacteria called biofilms and also disrupt the outer membrane of viruses. Monolaurin is not harmful to the good bacteria in the gut known as probiotics, so it is safe to use longer-term if needed, particularly in the treatment of Lyme disease or Epstein Barr virus.
Recommended dose: 600 mg once or twice daily with meals.
5. Seed extracted oils
Immuno-viva Core, my personal favorite to treat and prevent viral infections. Core contains concentrated black raspberry and certified organic black cumin seed oils extracted through an exclusive cold press process, which requires 8 pounds of berries to make just one-half teaspoon of oil. Research has shown Core to have a 10-fold increase in antioxidants compared to flax seed oil. In addition, Core is a potent stimulator of natural killer cells which are the white blood cells that fight viral infections and cancer cells.
Recommended dose: One teaspoon daily to prevent or shorten the length of viral infections. Core is particularly good at reducing inflammation and shortening the duration of mouth cold sores caused by herpes virus. Apply directly to the cold sores and swallow an additional teaspoon to boost your immune response to the virus.
6. Food and probiotics
Remember, food is also medicine. A healthy, organic diet low in refined sugars is your best defense against infections. Foods that are naturally high in antiviral components include: ginger, onions, garlic, and turmeric. Probiotics found in fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kombucha and kefir can also combat viral illness.
Recommended for additional antioxidants and detoxification support: Greens 8,000 fruit and vegetable powder - 1 scoop daily (I love the Mocha flavor mixed with almond milk!)
8. Powerful new kid on the block – hydrogen water
Molecular hydrogen (H2) is a gas with powerful antioxidant effects. It works primarily by improving the redox status of the cell mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation. Hydrogen is the smallest molecule in the universe, so it can easily penetrate any membrane in your body. There are more than 1,000 publications on molecular hydrogen, demonstrating the therapeutic potential in numerous health conditions including diabetes, heart disease and stroke. There are several ways to administer hydrogen, including drinking hydrogen-rich water.
Recommendation: Hydrogen water tablets – 1 tablet in purified water daily during a viral infection.
Anne Kelly MD, MPH
Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner
Medical Director
Holland Biomedical Clinic