Diet: First Line of Defense

Healthy Food Bytes - Diet: First Line of Defense

So I’m overloaded with all the fear mongering tactics being promoted by the news media regarding the 2009 Swine Flu. Is vaccination our only hope? Is vaccination our only answer? Did we not learn from the 1976 swine flu scare when dozens died and hundreds were injured from vaccinations where several hundred people developed Guillain-Barre Syndrome and young adults ended up as paraplegics. The protection of the flu vaccine from getting the flu is highly controversial. This is not the first, and it won’t be the last time you hear of such a scare.

So, can healthy people die if they contract the swine flu? What is healthy? Everyone has their own ideology of “what is healthy”. For example, some people think that because they received vaccinations, they’re covered, they’re healthy, they’re protected. Some people think that eating fat free, or sugar free processed foods is healthful. Some people think that maintaining a low plant based carbohydrate lifestyle and eating primarily animal protein is healthful. Some people think that consuming a lot of dairy is healthful. Based on what I know about the food that God has given us – in it’s most natural state, and human anatomy and physiology, I can argue many points against all of these “ideologies”, but won't get into that here. These points are sprinkled throughout my previous blog entries.

Your first line of defense against the flu is eating a diet rich in whole, plant based foods. You heard it before, 5-9 a day. Also, limit dairy, sugar, refined foods and manage stress. It’s that simple. You can utilize supplementation for an extra layer of protection, such as a high-potency vitamin and added antioxidants and herbal tinctures. The truth of the matter is, most people seek convenience and cost before their health and the health of their children. I'm shocked when people tell me, "my kids won't eat vegetables or my kids won't eat that, it's not sweet enough." Who's the boss here? Who has control of purchasing groceries? Talk to your kids about why it's important to make healthful choices. They'll get it, but only if you believe it and follow it yourself.

I heard people say “buying fresh organic fruits and vegetables are so expensive”. Well, it’s actually cheaper than planning your meals around a steak, ribs and pork chops – well loved American classics. And it’s healthier for you too.

This is one area where I don't compromise. I strive to purchase organic, high quality foods whenever possible. I don't look for the cheapest foods to put into my body or my family's body. We rarely eat out, thanks to my love for cooking. This help me be in control of the quality of the food we eat and how it's prepared. You can make cooking a family affair. You'll be surprised what a kid will eat if he/she helped prepare it.

Interesting article on the Swine Flu and Vaccines
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2009/04/29/Swine-Flu.aspx

http://www.russellblaylockmd.com/

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Diet: First Line of Defense