Dog parents want to do everything possible to keep their furry family members healthy. While we can’t prevent all health problems, we can take steps to support our dog’s immune system in its natural fight against cancer.
Understanding Your Dog’s Natural Defense System
Your dog’s immune system works around the clock, recognizing and destroying abnormal cells every day. A healthy immune system can often catch cancer cells before they become a problem. However, sometimes cancer cells multiply too quickly or hide from the immune system, which is why supporting this natural defense is so important.
Nutrition is The Foundation of Immune Health
The most important step you can take is feeding your dog a high-quality, balanced diet. Look for dog food with an AAFCO (American Association of Feed Control Officials) statement on the label, which ensures the food meets nutritional standards.
Consider these immune-supporting additions to your dog’s diet, following the 10% rule (extras should make up no more than 10% of their total diet):
Red bell peppers
Blueberries and strawberries
Spinach and kale
Carrots
Stick with complete, balanced commercial diets or properly formulated home-cooked meals created by a veterinary nutritionist.
Helpful Supplements
Two supplements are known to boost immune function:
Probiotics help maintain gut health, where 70-90% of the immune system lives. These good bacteria support the gut barrier that prevents harmful organisms from entering your dog’s bloodstream. Always choose canine-specific probiotics with multiple bacterial strains.
Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil can support dogs with weakened immune systems. Choose products tested for heavy metals and follow dosing instructions carefully.
The Spaying Advantage
If you have a female dog, spaying before her first heat cycle reduces mammary cancer risk to just 0.5%. After the first heat, risk jumps to 8%, and after the second heat, it reaches 26%.
Safety First
Only use supplements made for dogs, look for the NASC quality seal, and consult your veterinarian before adding anything new to your dog’s routine.
While these steps may help support your dog’s natural cancer-fighting abilities, regular veterinary checkups remain essential for early detection. Your veterinarian can provide personalized advice based on your dog’s age, breed, and health status.
Building a strong immune system is like giving your dog’s body the best tools to do what it naturally does – protect itself. Combined with good veterinary care, these simple steps can be part of a comprehensive approach to your dog’s long-term health.
What if the very hormone designed to help you survive is actually the reason you’re struggling to thrive?
My mother relentlessly saved and sacrificed so that she could enjoy her life in retirement. But two years into retirement, she was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s.
Here’s what I’ve learned since becoming a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner: she didn’t just “get” Alzheimer’s two years after retirement. It was building and building for years before that. She was making it worse with lifestyle choices: the over-exercising that women in their 40s and 50s often do, eating trans fats during the low-fat craze of the 80s and 90s.
Had I known what I know now, her outcome might have been different.
This is why I’m passionate about functional health. This is why thousands of practitioners are learning to identify and address the root causes of dysfunction before they become disease. If we can reach people in that gray space (when things are out of balance but before they become diagnosable conditions), we can change their trajectory. We can save lives.
As functional health practitioners, we see it every day: clients who’ve tried everything, followed every protocol, cleaned up their diet, and taken all the right supplements, yet they’re still stuck in that frustrating place of “I’m okay, but I’m not great.”
The missing piece? Understanding cortisol and its profound impact on every system in the body.
If you’ve ever wondered why some clients get amazing results while others plateau, or why you yourself might be experiencing symptoms that doctors dismiss as “normal aging,” this deep dive into cortisol will change everything.
What Is Wellness, Really?
Before we dive into cortisol, let’s get clear on what we’re actually working toward. At FDN, we don’t believe in “fine” or “okay.” We believe in abundant vitality.
Picture this as a spectrum:
The Right Side (The Medical Model): Symptoms → Sickness → Disease → Death
The Middle (Neutral Health): No symptoms, but no energy either. This is the “I’m fine, I guess” zone where most people live.
The Left Side (True Wellness): High energy, optimal function, metabolic fire, abundant vitality, joy for life.
Here’s the thing: neutral health equals a neutral life. When you’re operating from “I’m okay, I don’t have any complaints,” you’re not building empires, writing books, raising joyful kids, or showing up as your best self in relationships.
Good health, abundant vitality, is your birthright. It’s not just for the lucky few.
The Body’s Incredible Healing Power (And What’s Limiting It)
Your body is a self-healing machine. You know this because when you get a cut, it heals. When you break a bone, it mends. When you catch a cold, you recover.
But this healing ability isn’t infinite. If it were, we’d never age or die.
So what’s the difference between what your body can heal and what it can’t?
It’s a savings versus spending problem.
Think of your body as having a bank account called “Vital Reserve.” This is your innate intelligence: your body’s natural ability to function at 100% and fix imbalances before they become problems.
Where do you spend this precious currency? On your environment.
This has always been the case. Our paleolithic ancestors spent their Vital Reserve on not knowing if food would be available, dealing with harsh weather, avoiding predators, and navigating tribal conflicts.
Today? We spend it on mental-emotional stress, environmental toxins, and poor lifestyle habits that are constantly draining our account.
The main spender of Vital Reserve is stress.
The Modern Stress Problem: It’s Not What You Think
When most people think of stress, they picture this: work deadlines, traffic, relationship conflicts, financial pressure. And yes, these mental-emotional stressors are huge.
But there are two other categories most people completely miss:
Physical Stressors:
Sitting too long
Blue light exposure from screens
Too much coffee
Not exercising enough (or exercising too much)
Needing wine to fall asleep
Poor sleep quality
Environmental Stressors:
Depleted soils
EMF exposure
Chemicals in food, water, and air
Toxins our paleolithic ancestors never encountered
Plus, there’s the existential stress of modern life: What’s my purpose? How do I make my life meaningful when I’ll likely be forgotten in 100 years?
All of these are constantly withdrawing from your Vital Reserve account.
Meet Cortisol: Your Body’s “Energy on Credit” System
Cortisol is your primary stress hormone, and it’s actually designed to help you survive. When your environment throws stressors at you, cortisol says, “We need to put internal spending on hold and take all available resources to deal with this external threat.”
Cortisol breaks the body down for quick energy. We call this “catabolic.”
Why would your body have a mechanism for breaking itself down? Because sometimes you need energy RIGHT NOW. When your boss says, “This project is actually due in 30 minutes,” you can’t drive to the store, buy food, cook it, eat it, digest it, and then produce energy. You need quick fuel immediately.
So cortisol reaches for easy-to-break-down tissues like cartilage, tendons, connective tissue, and muscle, converting them to blood sugar.
Here’s the kicker: Cortisol is also a natural painkiller and anti-inflammatory. It masks the damage it’s doing, which is why it makes you feel amazing in the moment: clear thinking, quick reactions, pain-free movement.
Think of cortisol as your body’s credit card. You’re borrowing energy now and promising to pay it back later through rest, recovery, and healing.
When “Energy on Credit” Becomes a Problem
Throughout history, humans dealt with stress that was intense but occasional and short-lived. A wild animal attack, a natural disaster, a tribal conflict: these were serious but temporary.
Take a moment to think about this: Does this describe the stress in your life?
For most of us, stress is intense, constant, and never-ending. We wake up stressed, work stressed, drive home stressed, and lie in bed stressed about tomorrow’s stress.
This creates what we call “catabolic debt”: you’re constantly running up charges on your cortisol credit card without ever paying it back.
Chronic stress is not within our biological design.
Consider this: Anthropological studies show paleolithic humans worked only 15-20 hours per week. How many of you work only 15-20 hours per week? (And remember, “work” includes housework, childcare, and all the other responsibilities that don’t stop when you leave the office.)
They lived in close communities with cooperative resource sharing and had each other’s backs. Think about your own life: Do you know your neighbors? If you do, would they really have your back if things got serious?
Most of us are duplicating resources instead of sharing them. We’re all figuring out our own childcare, making our own meals, maintaining our own everything. There’s no interdependence, no shared load.
The cost of modern life is enormous:
70-80% of doctor visits are for stress-related illnesses
People with high anxiety are 4-5 times more likely to die from heart attack or stroke
Stress contributes to 50% of all illnesses
The Stress Response Curve: Your Roadmap to Understanding Where You Are
This is where it gets really interesting. Understanding this curve will change how you see your health (and your clients’ health) forever.
We all start in the green zone: Homeostasis. When you experience occasional stressors, cortisol and adrenaline spike, you handle the situation, then return to baseline to rest and repair.
But when stress becomes chronic, you move into the orange zone: Acute Stress. You’re constantly producing cortisol and adrenaline, never returning to homeostasis.
Here’s the thing: on your way up this curve, you feel AMAZING. Remember when you could pull all-nighters and still ace exams? When you could eat junk food without consequences? When you had laser focus for 12-16 hours straight?
That’s the acute phase. You’re running on cortisol, and it feels like superpowers.
Then you hit Peak Production. Your body says, “We’ve put way too much on the cortisol credit card. We have to cut back.”
Now you fall into the Compensatory Phase. Your cortisol numbers might look normal to a doctor, but the distribution is all wrong. Maybe you have too much in the morning and crash by afternoon, or you spike at night and can’t sleep.
Plus, you have a relativity problem. You’re used to feeling like Superman from the acute phase, so normal cortisol levels feel terrible by comparison.
Continue down this path, and you reach the Exhaustive Phase. Like a phone on low battery mode, everything still works but at 30% capacity and not for long. You’re devoting everything to just getting through the day.
The Hidden Cost: What Happens to Your Body’s Core Systems
At FDN, we focus on six foundational systems that chronic stress systematically shuts down. We call them the H-I-D-D-E-N systems, and understanding what happens to each one under chronic stress is crucial for practitioners:
H – Hormones DHEA is your anabolic hormone: the one responsible for building you back up after cortisol breaks you down. This is how you pay off your cortisol credit card. But when stress is constant, DHEA steps back and says, “I’ll come back when it’s safe to focus internally, but right now we need to keep spending on the environment.” DHEA becomes chronically low, which means your healing potential becomes chronically low.
Then sex hormones get the message: “We don’t have enough resources to fund fertility right now.” Sex hormones plummet, taking motivation and joy for life with them. This is when you get to that neutral state where you’re thinking, “I have dreams I want to pursue, but it’s just too much effort. I’ll just watch Netflix instead.”
I – Immune Your immune system is expensive to run. Under chronic stress, it says, “I cost a ton of money, so I’m going to operate at 30% capacity and not for very long.” Now you’re getting sick often, it takes forever to heal, you can’t shake that cough, and if anyone around you is sick, you know you’re going down.
D – Digestion Digestion costs a lot of energy to function properly. When you’re spending everything on stress, digestion goes into low-power mode. Now you’re only digesting at 30% capacity. Even if you’re eating the cleanest diet in the world, you can’t use it. You’re not getting the building blocks to repair or the nutrients your body needs to power metabolic functions at full capacity.
D – Detoxification Detoxification is another huge system that’s expensive to run. When your body’s bank account is overdrawn from cortisol debt, detox says, “I don’t have enough money to find these toxins, bind them up, and effectively remove them. So I’ll put them in storage instead.” Your body shoves toxins into fat cells, brain tissue, and bones, creating a toxic backlog that makes you feel slow, gives you acne, throws off digestion, and impairs hormone production.
E – Energy Production Your mitochondria can’t function optimally when all resources are diverted to stress response. This leads to that “tired but wired” feeling where you’re exhausted but can’t actually rest.
N – Nervous System Sleep, mood, and cognitive function all suffer. This is where we see the brain fog, insomnia, anxiety, and depression that so many people struggle with.
The fundamental principle of FDN: These systems don’t operate in isolation. You can’t just say, “Oh, you have classic hormone symptoms, so let’s run a hormone test.” You miss immunity, digestion, detoxification: all the other systems contributing to what we call “Metabolic Chaos.”
This is why the “take this supplement for that symptom” approach rarely works long-term. You’re not dealing with isolated problems: you’re dealing with systemic dysfunction where multiple systems are compromised simultaneously.
Real-Life Case Studies: The Stress Curve in Action
Let’s look at three real clients to see how this plays out. As FDN practitioners, we use what we call “clinical correlation,” which means we never look at lab numbers in isolation. We always consider how someone feels alongside their test results.
Case Study 1: Adam – The Acute Phase Crash
Profile: 35-year-old male, broker at a mid-size investment firm, former athlete still crushing CrossFit workouts
Symptoms: Weight gain, trouble concentrating, loss of muscle mass despite rigorous workouts, headaches
Doctor’s Assessment: “Your results are unremarkable. This is normal aging.”
Lab Results:
Cortisol sum: 9 (acute phase)
Four-point pattern: Way too high in morning, drops low at noon, crashes severely in afternoon, bounces back up at night
The Reality: How do we know Adam isn’t on the left side of the stress curve going up into acute phase? His symptoms tell us everything. If he were on the way up, he’d feel amazing and wouldn’t be in our office. Instead, he’s on the right side coming down from peak production.
His cortisol pattern explains everything: sky-high morning cortisol makes him feel wired and anxious, the afternoon crash leaves him unable to concentrate (not ideal for an investment broker), and the nighttime spike disrupts his sleep.
Even though his DHEA looks “normal,” when we compare it to his cortisol level of 9, he’s clearly catabolic dominant. He’s breaking down faster than he’s building up, which explains why his intense CrossFit sessions aren’t building muscle: they’re just adding more stress to an already overloaded system.
The Reality: Caitlyn’s cortisol sum looks normal, but the distribution is completely dysfunctional. She can barely drag herself out of bed in the morning, crashes hard in the afternoon (imagine trying to accurately record legal proceedings when your cortisol is plummeting), and lies awake at night because her cortisol spikes just when it should be lowest.
She also has a relativity problem. When she was in the acute phase, she felt like Superman. Now that she’s in compensatory with “normal” cortisol levels, she feels terrible by comparison. Her DHEA is low, confirming she’s still in catabolic debt despite the lower cortisol numbers.
Case Study 3: Maggie – The Exhaustive Phase Crisis
Profile: 43-year-old chef at a popular five-star restaurant, diagnosed with hypothyroid
Symptoms: Weight gain in hips and belly, trouble keeping up at work, depression, irregular menstrual cycle
Lifestyle: Working 60+ hours per week, consistently sleeping only 5 hours per night
Medical Status: Seeing a counselor, considering antidepressant medication
Lab Results:
Cortisol sum: 3.1 (exhaustive phase)
Four-point pattern: Way too low in morning, drops low at noon, slight bounce in afternoon, drops again at night
DHEA: Very low
Clinical correlation: Still catabolic dominant despite low cortisol
The Reality: Maggie’s body is operating like a phone on low battery mode: everything still works, but at 30% capacity and not for long. Her thyroid has downregulated because there’s literally not enough energy in the system to maintain normal function.
The depression isn’t just psychological: it’s physiological. Her body can’t afford to fund optimal brain function. Even though her cortisol is very low and her DHEA is very low, she’s still cortisol dominant and in catabolic debt.
This is why understanding the stress curve is so crucial. Three people, three different phases, three different approaches needed.
The Path Forward: Why Understanding Cortisol Changes Everything
Here’s why this matters for you as a health practitioner:
1. It explains why some clients plateau. If you’re not addressing the stress component, you’ll hit a ceiling on healing no matter how perfect the diet or supplement protocol.
2. It validates your clients’ experiences. When someone says, “I used to be able to handle so much more,” or “I don’t feel like myself anymore,” you now understand the physiology behind it.
3. It gives you a roadmap for intervention. Different phases require different approaches. Someone in the acute phase needs different support than someone in the exhaustive phase.
4. It highlights the importance of comprehensive testing. A single cortisol measurement tells you almost nothing. You need the full pattern plus clinical correlation.
The FDN Approach: Test, Don’t Guess
At FDN, we don’t just talk about stress: we measure it. We use what we call “clinical correlation,” which means we never look at lab numbers in isolation. We always consider how someone feels alongside their test results.
We look at:
Four-point cortisol patterns throughout the day (not just a single measurement)
DHEA levels and the cortisol-to-DHEA ratio
How stress is affecting all the H-I-D-D-E-N systems
The complete picture of metabolic chaos
Progress tracking with tools like the Metabolic Chaos Scorecard
Then we address it systematically through our DRESS protocol:
D – Diet: Personalized nutrition based on lab findings, not generic “healthy eating” advice
R – Rest: Sleep optimization and recovery strategies tailored to your stress phase
E – Exercise: Right-sized movement for your current capacity (over-exercise is just as harmful as under-exercise)
S – Stress Reduction: Targeted techniques for your specific stressors: mental/emotional, physical, environmental, and lifestyle factors
S – Supplementation: Targeted support based on actual lab results, not guesswork
This isn’t about generic protocols. It’s about understanding exactly where someone is on the stress curve and what their body needs to heal.
Key Takeaways for Health Practitioners
Cortisol isn’t the enemy. A lot of people talk about cortisol as if it’s the villain—commercials make it sound like cortisol just makes you “old and fat.” That’s not what cortisol does. Cortisol is a vital hormone for navigating stress. The problem is chronic stress disrupting its natural rhythm.
Understanding the stress curve is diagnostic gold. It explains why clients feel the way they do and gives you a framework for intervention. Different phases require different approaches.
Clinical correlation is everything. You can’t just look at lab numbers in isolation. A cortisol sum of 5 might be “normal” to a doctor, but if your client feels terrible and the distribution is dysregulated, that tells you the real story.
You can’t ignore stress and expect lasting results. No matter how perfect your diet protocol or how targeted your supplements, chronic stress will cap healing potential. There’s a ceiling you’ll never break through if you don’t address the stress component.
The body’s systems are interconnected. You can’t just “fix hormones” without addressing how stress is affecting immunity, digestion, detoxification, and all the other H-I-D-D-E-N systems. This is why comprehensive testing and systematic protocols are crucial.
Metabolic Chaos requires a systematic approach. When multiple systems are compromised simultaneously, you need a framework like DRESS that addresses all aspects of healing, not just isolated symptoms.
Your Next Steps
If you’re ready to master functional lab testing and learn how to identify and address cortisol dysregulation in your practice, FDN provides the training, community, and ongoing support you need.
Because here’s the truth: your clients deserve more than “fine.” They deserve abundant vitality. And you deserve the confidence that comes from knowing exactly how to help them achieve it.
When you understand cortisol (really understand it), you hold the key to unlocking transformation for every client who walks through your door.
Ready to become the practitioner who always knows what to do next?
The answer lies in data-driven functional health. The answer lies in understanding that robust health isn’t just about the absence of symptoms: it’s about the presence of vitality.
And it starts with the hormone you can’t ignore: cortisol.
Want to learn more about becoming a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner?
Discover how our comprehensive training program gives you the tools to master cortisol testing, interpretation, and protocols that get results. Because when you know how to test, you never have to guess. View an indepth case study here.
Here are 9 powerful ways all-natural KSM-66 Ashwagandha can change our dog and cat’s health for the better, just by adding it to their diet.
Ashwagandha is an ancient adaptogenic herb with many health benefits for modern dogs and cats. Its wide-ranging benefits make it a powerful addition to any dog’s or cat’s daily diet. But what exactly is it about this adaptogenic herb that makes it so effective? All-natural KSM-66 Ashwagandha is a high-quality, root-only extract known for its high potency and safety. It contains a unique blend of therapeutic compounds that support the body in a variety of ways, from easing stress and enhancing sleep to reducing inflammation and supporting cognitive health. Let’s explore how this premium form of ashwagandha can benefit our companion animals’ well-being and why it deserves a place in their daily routine.
1. Ashwagandha Reduces Anxiety
Ashwagandha is a natural anxiolytic, meaning it reduces anxiety and promotes emotional balance. It works by lowering cortisol levels and calming the nervous system, without the drowsiness or side effects of pharmaceutical sedatives. It’s particularly helpful for animals dealing with:
General stress
Separation or travel anxiety
Noise phobias
Stress-related behaviors
Aggression related to anxiety
2. KSM-66 Ashwagandha Is Proven to Promote Calm
Unlike generic extracts, KSM-66 Ashwagandha has been extensively studied in dogs, cats, and even horses. These studies show it can reduce behavioral signs of stress—such as digestive upset, destructive behavior, or withdrawal—making it a reliable option for promoting a calm and balanced temperament in companion animals.
3. The Herb Has Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Chronic inflammation underlies many common health problems in dogs and cats, from joint problems to skin conditions. Ashwagandha’s natural anti-inflammatory properties help reduce pain, swelling, and discomfort, making it a useful tool for managing:
Arthritis
Mobility issues
Allergies
Chronic disease
And more
4. It Helps Modulate the Immune System
Ashwagandha’s anti-inflammatory properties also help to keep the immune system in balance, preventing both underactive and overactive immune responses. This helps the body fight infections, manage autoimmune conditions, and relieve allergies.
5. It Has the Power to Enhance Cognition
As dogs and cats age, cognitive decline can impact memory, learning, and behavior, just like with humans. Ashwagandha acts as a nootropic, meaning it supports memory, brain health, and mental clarity. Further, its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects help older animals and seniors stay sharp and responsive as they age.
6. Ashwagandha Acts as a Sleep Aid
Because of its calming effects, ashwagandha also acts as a natural sleep aid. Deep, restorative sleep is essential for healing, immune function, and mood regulation. This makes all-natural KSM-66 Ashwagandha especially helpful for seniors, animals recovering from illness, or those with high levels of stress or anxiety.
7. Promoting Better Sleep Means Less Fatigue
Low energy, lethargy, or exercise intolerance could be signs of chronic fatigue or stress. Ashwagandha improves resilience and vitality by supporting healthy energy levels, mitochondrial function, and stress recovery.
8. It Supports the HPA Axis
The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis controls how the body responds to stress. Ashwagandha helps balance cortisol and other hormones, promoting healthy adrenal function, stable mood, and healthy energy level.
9. It Supports Muscle Maintenance and Growth
Lastly, KSM-66 Ashwagandha has anabolic properties that support muscle strength and recovery. This makes it ideal for active animals, seniors, or those recovering from injury or illness. It can even help reduce muscle wasting in dogs or cats with chronic disease.
Look for KSM-66 Ashwagandha in Supplements, Treats, and Food!
Ashwagandha is a versatile, natural supplement for dogs and cats, and KSM-66 Ashwagandha is the safest and only clinically proven one for pets. Whether your dog or cat needs help with anxiety, inflammation, sleep, or aging gracefully, KSM-66 Ashwagandha’s premium, root-only extract is a powerful ingredient to look for in treats, food, and supplements. The levels of therapeutic compounds are carefully controlled to ensure companion animals get all the benefits without any side effects. And the company’s dedication to quality and sustainability guarantee their ashwagandha is good for people, companion animals, and the planet.
Learn more about the pet health benefits of all-natural KSM-66 Ashwagandha and find pet products that feature this ancient herb with modern benefits!
Post Views:929
Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.
Every pet parent wants their dog or cat to stay active, happy, and healthy well into their senior years, and science is pointing to sialic acid as a secret to senior pet vitality.
Nobody wants to see their beloved fur baby slow down as they age. Muscle loss, pain, cognitive decline, and a weakened immune system can all chip away at their vitality. But what if there were a single, natural solution that could address all four of these issues?
Thanks to a groundbreaking product from Japan, there is! MIRANEST uses a proprietary blend of ingredients, including a centuries-old wellness secret derived from swiftlet nest, to help dogs and cats age with strength, comfort, and energy. Thousands of pet parents are already using MIRANEST to restore senior pet vitality, and here’s how it works.
It Supports Muscle Health to Maintain Vigor
As dogs and cats age, they naturally lose muscle mass and strength. This decline can lead to:
Reduced mobility
Weight gain
Stress on the bones and joints
Pain and inflammation
As such, keeping your fur baby’s muscles strong is key when it comes to supporting vitality during their golden years.
MIRANEST’s swiftlet nest extract is rich in sialic acid, one of eight essential glyconutrients, which supports muscle repair, growth, and maintenance, helping seniors stay strong and active.
MIRANEST Manages Pain to Keep Activity Levels High
Pain is one of the biggest barriers to senior pet vitality. It’s impossible for dogs and cats to feel their best and live their best lives when they’re experiencing discomfort or chronic pain because of conditions like osteoarthritis. In fact, it can stop them from engaging in their favorite activities, make stairs a challenge, and even prevent regular exercise.
MIRANEST’s natural formula helps slow the progression of osteoarthritis and supports cartilage regeneration. This means more comfort, more mobility, and more of the joyful activities they love.
It Prevents Cognitive Decline to Preserve Youthful Playfulness
Cognitive decline can affect sleep, energy, playfulness, and activity levels, leading to stress, anxiety, withdrawal, and a lower quality of life.
MIRANEST’s key ingredient, swiftlet nest extract, has been shown to have neuroprotective effects. It helps support brain function, keeping your fur baby mentally sharp and emotionally engaged well into their golden years.
MIRANEST Protects the Immune System to Support Overall Health and Energy
The immune system tends to weaken with age, leading to illness and inflammation that impact energy, mood, appetite, and overall quality of life. The sialic acid in MIRANEST products plays an important role in:
Controlling inflammation
Modulating the immune system
Protecting against pathogens
By supporting immune function, MIRANEST helps dogs and cats stay resilient and full of life.
Support Senior Pet Vitality with All-Natural MIRANEST!
MIRANEST is made from cruelty-free, sustainably sourced swiftlet nest extract and plant-based ingredients. It provides all eight essential glyconutrients to naturally support senior pet vitality and health, from muscles and joints to immune and cognitive function.
I’ve tried several supplements for my dog, but the MIRANEST Jelly Stick has been the most effective. After a few weeks, I noticed a significant improvement in my dog’s coat and energy levels. It’s easy to give, and he loves the taste. I’m definitely sticking with this one. – Grace
Join the growing number of pet parents turning to MIRANEST to reduce allergy symptoms, treat hot spots, support vitality, and improve gut and immune health in as little as 30 days. Visit MIRANEST to learn more!
Post Views:1,255
Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.
Acupuncture is an ancient practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that has gained popularity in veterinary care. This holistic approach involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing and restore balance. For cat parents considering acupuncture for cats, understanding its principles and applications can be incredibly beneficial.
How Acupuncture Works
Acupuncture is based on the concept of Qi (pronounced “chee”), which refers to the vital energy that flows through the body along specific pathways called meridians. When this energy flow is disrupted due to illness or injury, it can lead to pain and dysfunction. By inserting needles into specific acupuncture points, practitioners aim to restore the balance of Qi, promoting healing and alleviating symptoms.
Common Conditions Treated with Acupuncture
Acupuncture can be effective for a variety of conditions in cats. Here are some of the most common ailments that may benefit from this treatment:
1. Pain Management
Arthritis: Acupuncture can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with osteoarthritis, a common issue in older cats.
Muscle Strains and Sprains: It can aid in recovery from injuries by promoting blood flow and reducing muscle tension.
2. Neurological Disorders
Seizures: Acupuncture may help manage the frequency and severity of seizures in cats.
Nerve Injuries: It ca support recovery from nerve damage and improve mobility.
3. Gastrointestinal Issues
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Acupuncture can help manage symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea by promoting digestive health.
Constipation: It may stimulate bowel movements and relieve discomfort associated with constipation.
4. Respiratory Problems
Asthma: Acupuncture can help reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks by improving airflow and reducing inflammation in the airways.
5. Immune System Support
Chronic Diseases: Conditions like kidney disease and hyperthyroidism can benefit from acupuncture by supporting overall health and immune function.
What Are the Benefits of Acupuncture for Cats?
Acupuncture offers several advantages for cats, including:
Has Minimal Side Effects: When performed by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is generally safe and well-tolerated by cats.
Can be Used with Other Treatments: Acupuncture can be used alongside conventional treatments, enhancing their effectiveness and reducing the need for medications.
Is an Holistic Approach: Acupuncture addresses not just the symptoms but also the underlying imbalances in the body, promoting overall wellness.
Conclusion
Acupuncture can be a valuable tool in managing various health issues in cats. By understanding its principles and potential applications, cat parents can make informed decisions about incorporating this holistic therapy into their feline companions’ care. Always consult with a veterinarian experienced in acupuncture to determine the best treatment plan for your cat’s specific needs.
Post Views:46
Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.
Pet parents are more committed than ever to providing their animal companions with top-notch care, and you can support health and wellness at every life stage with plasma-based ingredients.
Plasma is the liquid component of blood. It contains functional proteins that support health when included in food, treats, and supplements for dogs and cats. While the nutritional needs of dogs and cats change from puppyhood/kittenhood, adulthood, and the senior years, plasma-based ingredients have proven benefits at every life stage. Let’s learn more about the role of plasma in canine and feline diets and how to find the right products for your dog or cat.
Managing Inflammation with Plasma-Derived Proteins
Dogs and cats face various stressors throughout their lives. That can include minor illnesses and injuries as well as surgeries and the natural aging process. A common factor in these stressors is inflammation—the immune system’s natural defense mechanism that protects the body. While inflammation helps heal and defend the body, long-term inflammation can lead to ongoing health issues. Plasma helps to modulate inflammation at its source and helps the immune system respond more effectively. This makes it a valuable addition to your dog’s or cat’s diet at any age.
Whole-Body Support at Every Age with Plasma
Playful puppies/kittens, active adults, and wise seniors have unique needs. In fact, your dog’s or cat’s nutritional needs will change over the years. But at every age, it’s vital to choose foods, treats, and supplements that support overall health and aid in managing gut health.
Developmental Support for Young Animals
For growing puppies and kittens, optimal nutrition is essential for healthy development. Plasma provides essential proteins and amino acids that support growth while also modulating intestinal inflammation. By maintaining a healthy intestinal barrier, plasma ensures proper nutrient absorption, which is crucial for the development of strong bones and muscles.
Health Maintenance for Adults
Environmental changes, dietary adjustments, and activity levels are all stressors that can impact the health of adult animals. Plasma’s functional proteins support the overall immune system, helping adult animals cope with stress and inflammation. This support enables them to remain active and enjoy a higher quality of life.
Support for Seniors
As dogs and cats age, they often experience increased levels of inflammation. This can lead to reduced mobility, cognitive decline, and compromised intestinal health. Plasma helps manage systemic and intestinal inflammation, supporting better mobility, cognitive function and overall well-being. When you incorporate plasma into their diet, aging dogs and cats can enjoy a more comfortable and fulfilling life.
Make a Proactive Investment in Your Fur Baby’s Health
Plasma is a natural ingredient that enhances nutrition, helps manage inflammation, and supports your dog’s or cat’s well-being throughout their life. From aiding growth in young dogs and cats to maintaining health in adults and easing the effects of aging for seniors, plasma offers comprehensive benefits that ensure your beloved companion enjoys a happy, healthy life at every stage. Just look for food, treats, and supplements with plasma in the ingredients!
Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.
They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks. We call BS (Bad Science) on that! There are ways to help your aging dog go energetically (and pain- and fog-free) into their senior years, with plenty of new – or at the very least revived – tricks to boot. Starting with all-natural, all-healing, 100% safe ashwagandha.
Senior dogs, like senior people, face a unique set of health challenges. These include things like reduced mobility, aching joints, cognitive decline, and decreased energy levels, to name but a few. But it does not have to be this way: Ashwagandha to the rescue!
This adaptogenic herb has been helping humans thumb their noses at so-called geriatric decrepitude for more than 4,000 years. Now it’s increasingly gaining a reputation for doing the same for our furry best friends. KSM-66 Ashwagandha pure root extract, in particular, has shown enormous promise as a safe, natural remedy to support the health of our fur babies as they enter their sweet senior years – and improve their quality of life for longer.
Benefits of KSM-66 Ashwagandha for Senior Dogs
Enhanced Mobility
It comes as no surprise that one of the key issues with aging lies in achy, breaky joint health. Arthritis and joint pain are extremely common issues in older companion animals, significantly impacting their mobility and comfort. KSM-66 Ashwagandha’s anti-inflammatory properties can help manage these symptoms:
By reducing inflammation and pain in the joints, it can improve flexibility and movement.
This, in turn, improves your senior’s ability to once again enjoy their daily walks and playtime.
And this, in its turn, helps your dog stay active and engaged, which can only but improve their brain health.
It’s a veritable chain reaction of health benefits.
Boosted Energy and Vitality
As our beloved furballs age, they also often experience a decline in energy levels, leading to reduced activity and engagement. KSM-66 Ashwagandha tackles this by:
Regulating cortisol levels,
thereby promoting a balanced response to physical and emotional stressors.
Once that is under control, the knock-on effect is:
a natural boost in energy and vitality,
improved stamina, and even
a renewed, puppy-like zest for life.
Reduced Stress and Anxiety
The aging process, undoubtedly, has the potential to be a stressful one. Things don’t work like they used to, and your dog is not immune to the feelings of confusion and frustration that arise from this. The end result? Added stress and anxiety to an already increased pain-load. (Thanks creaky joints.)
Here, too, KSM-66 can help, being clinically proven to help reduce both stress and pain! In a recent study, dogs who received KSM-66 showed a 27% reduction in anxiety, and a 44% reduction in pain severity!
Less stress, less pain; happier, healthier fur kids with a liveliness that belies their years. (Say hello, once more, to the zoomies!)
Supercharged Immune Function
A robust immune system is crucial for maintaining health in senior companion animals. (You don’t need eight plus years of veterinarian school to know this!)
KSM-66 Ashwagandha’s recognized immunomodulatory effects can help enhance the body’s natural defenses. By supporting immune function in this way it works to help protect your aging dog or cat from infections and illnesses, contributing to their overall well-being.
Improved Cognitive Function
One of the most significant challenges faced by any senior – pooch or person – is cognitive decline. This often manifests as confusion, disorientation, and changes in behavior. Help is, however, at hand.
KSM-66 Ashwagandha has antioxidant and neuroprotective properties that can support brain health and cognitive function by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain. This translates to the potential for your dog to maintain mental clarity and alertness as they enter their golden years. All of which adds up to one thing: better quality of life for longer.
Need more convincing? A completed study, currently under peer review, presented conclusive proof that KSM-66 Ashwagandha can play a significant role in improved cognitive and emotional well-being in geriatric dogs. The study showed that when geriatric dogs were given KSM-66 supplementation, the following happened:
A significant improvement in Canine Dementia scale scores for sleep, anxiety altered activity, and disorientation.
A significant increase in Serotonin and Dopamine.
No adverse reactions occurred during the study period, which shows that ashwagandha is not only effective, but also safe!
None of us wants to see our beloved fur kids suffer; but all of us would like to keep them with us for longer! KSM-66 Ashwagandha offers us a natural ally to achieve the impossible: both quality of life and improved longevity for aging dogs. How’s that for a new trick?
Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.
Being sick is no fun for multiple reasons. No matter what time of year, you feel you are going to miss out on fun things including seeing friends, sleeping well and imbibing. Often when sick, antibiotics are prescribed. They treat or prevent some types of bacterial infection. Their superpower is killing bacteria or preventing them from reproducing and spreading. They are not effective on viral problems like the flu. But for them to be effective, you have to take them regularly and not do anything to interfere with their work. Alcohol is always a big no no when on antibiotics. Drinking alcohol can lower your energy and slow how fast you get better from illness. So it’s a good idea not to drink alcohol until you finish your antibiotics and are feeling better. But can you consume marijuana while on antibiotics?
There hasn’t been much research on the interactions of cannabis and antibiotics, but commons sense comes into play. Research indicates marijuana use can increase the pain-relieving effects of opioids without increasing the levels of opioids found in plasma. This seems to reduce opioid use. The same research review noted children taking clobazam, an anti-seizure medication, and cannabidiol, experience increased levels of clobazam in their blood. And, those who are taking valproate and using medical marijuana appeared to be at higher risks for abnormalities in liver function.
Photo by rawpixel.com
Unlike alcohol, there is still needed research to be done examining individual medications and how of marijuana use could change how they work in the body. Patients taking medication for chronic health conditions need to talk with their medical professional before using marijuana, but what if you’re on a short treatment using antibiotics? Can you use marijuana while taking antibiotics and kick your infection to the curb without complications of delay?
When it comes to taking antibiotics and using marijuana at the same time, currently, there is no research indicating it isn’t a safe practice. Some medical professionals have expressed concerns taking THC with antibiotics could increase the risk of unpleasant side effects of both. If you use while taking antibiotics, it’s best to keep an eye out for increased side effects and to stop using THC if you experience any. Currently, it is not on thelist of drug interactions with antibiotics.
Another issue is marijuana impact on the immune system. In taking antibiotics to fight off an infection, the body has to do its part to get well. Early research suggests CBD may aid some antibiotics. But there is debate about how cannabis affects the immune system. Some research indicates marijuana may suppress the immune system, but there is also conflicting information suggesting it may make your immune system stronger and help it fight illness.
Ultimately, there don’t appear to be real risks associated with consuming marijuana while on antibiotics. If it a serious issue, always talk to your medical professional and monitor the situation. It is always a good idea to pay close attention to your body, noting adverse reactions and making changes if necessary.
On June 3, 2021, a roughly 60-year-old man in the riverside city of Magdeburg, Germany, received his first COVID vaccine. He opted for Johnson & Johnson’s shot, popular at that point because unlike Pfizer’s and Moderna’s vaccines, it was one-and-done. But that, evidently, was not what he had in mind. The following month, he got the AstraZeneca vaccine. The month after that, he doubled up on AstraZeneca and added a Pfizer for good measure. Things only accelerated from there: In January 2022, he received at least 49 COVID shots.
A few months later, employees at a local vaccination center thought to themselves, Huh, wasn’t that guy in here yesterday? and alerted the police. By that point, the German Press Agency reported, the man had been vaccinated as many as 90 times. And still he was not done. As of November, he said he’d received 217 COVID shots—217!
That’s according to a new paper published in The Lancet. After German researchers learned of the man from newspaper articles, they managed to contact him via the public prosecutor investigating the case. He was “very interested” in participating in a study Kilian Schober, an immunologist at Uniklinikum Erlangen and a co-author on the paper said in a statement. They pieced together his vaccination timeline through interviews and medical records, and collected blood and saliva samples to examine the immunological effects of “hypervaccination.”
The man’s identity hasn’t been revealed, and in the paper he’s referred to only as “HIM” (seemingly an acronym, though what it stands for is not specified). He is hardly the world’s only hypervaccinated person. A retired postman in India had reportedly received 12 shots by January 2022 and told The New York Times, “I still want more.” A New Zealand man, meanwhile, allegedly racked up 10 in a single day. But pause for a moment and consider the sheer logistics of HIM’s feat. In all, he received his 217 vaccinations over the course of just under two and a half years, which comes out to an average of seven and a half shots a month, although the distribution was far from even. For several weeks in early 2022, he received two shots nearly every day. He seems to have had a strong preference for the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, but he also got at least one shot of AstraZeneca and Sanofi-GSK and, of course, Johnson & Johnson.
Why? you might wonder. The paper itself elides this question, saying only that he did so “deliberately and for private reasons.” Perhaps the most obvious explanation would be extreme, probably pathological COVID anxiety. News reports from April 2022 offer another possible explanation: that he did so to sell the vaccination cards. But German prosecutors did not bring charges once HIM’s scheme was uncovered, and he continued getting unnecessary shots.
Getting 217 COVID shots is very much not the public-health guidance in Germany or anywhere else. Yet the strategy seemingly panned out: HIM has never contracted COVID, researchers concluded based on antigen tests, PCR tests, and bloodwork. “If you ask immunologists, we might have predicted that it would be not beneficial to do this,” Cindy Leifer, an immunologist at Cornell University who wasn’t involved with the Lancet study, told me. They might have expected the constant action to exhaust the immune system, leaving it vulnerable to actual viral threats. But such worries came to nothing.
Still, immunologists cautioned against inferring any strong causal connection. He avoided the virus; he got vaccinated 217 times. He did not necessarily avoid the virus because he got vaccinated 217 times. In fact, the authors wrote, although hypervaccination seems to have increased the quantity of antibodies and T cells that HIM’s body produced to fend off the virus—even after 216 shots, the 217th still produced a modest increase—it had no real effect on the quality of the immune response. “He would have been just as well protected if he had gotten a normal number of three to four vaccinations,” Schober told me.
Nor did hypervaccination lead to any adverse effects. By shot 217, one might have expected to see some of the rare side effects associated with the vaccines, such as myocarditis, pericarditis, or Guillain-Barré Syndrome, but as far as researchers could tell, HIM was completely fine. Remarkably, he didn’t even report feeling minor side effects from any of his 217 shots. On some level, this makes total sense: As Schober reasonably pointed out, HIM probably would not have gotten all those shots if each one had knocked him out for a day. Fair, but still: 217 shots and no side effects? How?
If nothing else, HIM is one hell of an advertisement for the vaccines. Worried about side effects from your third booster? Well, this guy’s gotten more than 200, and he’s a-okay. Travis Kelce has been called Mr. Pfizer, but he’s got nothing on HIM. Scientifically, things are somewhat murkier. The results of the HIM study were largely unsurprising, researchers told me, but the mysteries at the margins—such as the absence of any side effects—are a good reminder that four years after the pandemic began, immunology is still, as my former colleague Ed Yong wrote, “where intuition goes to die.”
At the end of the paper, the authors are very clear: “We do not endorse hypervaccination as a strategy to enhance adaptive immunity.” The takeaway, Leifer said, should not be the more shots, the better. Schober told me he even tried to personally convey this message to HIM after his 216th shot. “From the bottom of my heart as a medical doctor, I really told him that he shouldn’t get vaccinated again,” Schober said.
HIM seemed to take this advice seriously. Then he went and got shot No. 217 anyway.
These days, the options for dietary supplements are virtually limitless. And whatever substance you want to ingest, you can find it in gummy form. Omega-3? You bet. Vitamin C? Absolutely. Iron? Calcium? Zinc? Yes, yes, and yes. There are peach collagen rings and strawberry-watermelon fiber rings. There are brambleberry probiotic gummies and “tropical zing” gummy worms that promise to put you in “an upbeat mood.” There are libido gummies and menopause gummies. There are gummies that claim to boost your metabolism, to reinforce your immune system, to strengthen your hair, your skin, your nails. For kids, there are Transformers multivitamin gummies and My Little Pony multivitamin gummies.
I could go on. A simple search for gummy vitamins on the CVS website turns up more than 50 results. This is the golden age of gummies, and that can seem like a great thing. Who wouldn’t rather eat a peach ring than pop a pill? But if the notion that something healthy can taste exactly like candy seems too good to be true, that’s because it is.
Gummy supplements are a relatively new phenomenon, but gummy candies are not. Starch-based Turkish delight has been around since the late 18th century. In 1860s England, some of the earliest gummies were popularly known as “unclaimed babies” (because they were shaped like infants, many more of which apparently were unclaimed back then). In the 1920s, the German confectioner Hans Riegel founded Haribo and created the gelatin-based gummy bears still consumed around the world today. It would be another 60 years, though, before Haribo gummies arrived on American shores. In the decades that followed, gummy sweets became ubiquitous, taking almost every shape imaginable: worms, frogs, sharks, snakes, watermelons, doughnuts, hamburgers, french fries, bacon, Coke bottles, bracelets, Band-Aids, brains, teeth, eyeballs, genitalia, soldiers, mustaches, Legos, and, as in days of old, children.
Only in the late 1990s and early 2000s, though, did the supplement industry begin experimenting with gummies. The driving principle was not a new one: As Mary Poppins put it, “A spoonful of sugar makes the medicine go down.” Flintstones multivitamins have been around in their hard, chewable form since 1968; even if superior to pills, they basically taste like sweet, vaguely chemical chalk).
Gummy vitamins, on the contrary, are virtually indistinguishable from the treats they’re modeled on. You could pop men’s multis at the movies the same way you could Sour Patch Kids. (Or Starburst gummies, or Skittles gummies, or Jolly Rancher gummies—pretty much every non-chocolate candy now comes in gummy form.) Which is probably why they’ve become so popular, says Tod Cooperman, the president of ConsumerLab, a watchdog site that reviews supplements. When he founded ConsumerLab in 1999, gummy supplements hardly existed. Adult gummy vitamins didn’t hit the market until 2012. Now, Nina Puch, a scientist who formulates gummies for the food and pharmaceutical consulting company Knechtel, told me, three-quarters of the gummies she designs are supplements rather than candies. Gummy supplements are everywhere. They’re a rapidly expanding seven-plus billion dollar industry, and by 2027 that figure is projected to double.
But what makes gummy supplements appealing also makes them concerning. The reason they taste as good as candy, it turns out, is because on average, they can contain just as much sugar as candy does. The earliest gummy supplements, Cooperman told me, were basically just candy with vitamins sprayed on. They’ve come a long way since then: The active ingredients are now carefully integrated into the gummy itself by scientists such as Puch, and done so in a way that preserves as much of the gummy’s flavor and consistency as possible. But the nutritional essentials haven’t changed much—the average gummy vitamin contains about the same amount of sugar per serving as one piece of Sour Patch Kids does.
A little extra sugar is not the end of the world. But there’s also the danger of overdoses. Especially for children, it’s important that medicines and supplements not taste too good, Cora Breuner, a professor of pediatrics at the University of Washington, told me. Consumed in excess, many of the vitamins and nutrients delivered in supplements can be toxic. They have to strike an appropriate balance, neither tasting so bad that kids refuse to take them nor so good that they’ll want too much. Most gummy supplements seemingly fail the latter test, and not without consequences. Annual calls to Poison Control for pediatric melatonin overdoses have risen 530 percent over the past decade, in part, experts suggested to me last year, because of the hormone’s increased availability in gummy form. The overdose numbers are also up for multivitamins.
The risk of overdose can be greatly mitigated by simply taking care to store gummies where kids can’t get them. The more significant problem, Cooperman told me, is that gummies are simply a less reliable delivery mechanism than the alternatives. Vitamins and many other compounds degrade far faster in gummies’ half-liquid, half-solid state than in traditional pill or capsule form, he said, because gummies offer less protection from heat, light, moisture, and other contaminants.
To compensate, supplement makers will in many cases load their products with far more of a substance than advertised on the packaging. Some overage is to be expected with all supplements, but the margins for many gummy supplements are gargantuan. “Gummy vitamins were the most likely form to contain much more of an ingredient than listed,” ConsumerLab wrote in its 2023 review of multivitamins and multiminerals. Of the four gummy supplements reviewed, three contained nearly twice as much of the relevant substance as they were supposed to, and the fourth contained only around three-quarters as much.
A recent analysis of melatonin and CBD gummies yielded similar results: Some contained as much as 347 percent the amount of those substances stated on the label. Because the FDA generally does not regulate supplements as drugs, such wild variability is accepted in a way that it isn’t for actual pharmaceuticals. (In 2020, the FDA granted the first-ever Investigational New Drug Application for a gummy medication, though no such product appears to have come to market.) “If you have something that you need a specific amount of every time you take it, gummies are not the way to go,” says Pieter Cohen, a doctor at Cambridge Health Alliance, in Somerville, Massachusetts, and the lead author of the melatonin-CBD research. Taking too much of a supplement is generally not as dangerous as taking too much of a prescription drug, but, as Breuner noted, many supplements taken in sufficient excess can still be toxic. When I asked Cooperman what advice he had for people trying to navigate all of this, his answer was simple: “Don’t buy a gummy.”
Perhaps the rise of gummy supplements was inevitable. The supplement industry has become so big in part because it can promote its products as, say, boosting the immune system or supporting healthy bones, without subjecting them to the strict regulatory demands imposed on pharmaceuticals. Supplements blur the line between food and drug, and gummy supplements—designed and marketed on the premise that healthy stuff can and should taste as good as candy—only intensify that blurring. Cohen, for one, thinks the distinction is worth preserving. Calcium supplements should not go down as easy as Haribos. That may be a bitter pill to swallow, but not everything can taste like candy.
Compared with the worst days of the pandemic—when vaccines and antivirals were nonexistent or scarce, when more than 10,000 people around the world were dying each day, when long COVID largely went unacknowledged even as countless people fell chronically ill—the prognosis for the average infection with this coronavirus has clearly improved.
In the past four years, the likelihood of severe COVID has massively dropped. Even now, as the United States barrels through what may be its second-largest wave of SARS-CoV-2 infections, rates of death remain near their all-time low. And although tens of thousands of Americans are still being hospitalized with COVID each week, emergency rooms and intensive-care units are no longer routinely being forced into crisis mode. Long COVID, too, appears to be a less common outcome of new infections than it once was.
But where the drop in severe-COVID incidence is clear and prominent, the drop in long-COVID cases is neither as certain nor as significant. Plenty of new cases of the chronic condition are still appearing with each passing wave—even as millions of people who developed it in years past continue to suffer its long-term effects.
In a way, the shrinking of severe disease has made long COVID’s dangers more stark: Nowadays, “long COVID to me still feels like the biggest risk for most people,” Matt Durstenfeld, a cardiologist at UC San Francisco, told me—in part because it does not spare the young and healthy as readily as severe disease does. Acute disease, by definition, eventually comes to a close; as a chronic condition, long COVID means debilitation that, for many people, may never fully end. And that lingering burden, more than any other, may come to define what living with this virus long term will cost.
Most of the experts I spoke with for this story do think that the average SARS-CoV-2 infection is less likely to unfurl into long COVID than it once was. Several studies and data sets support this idea; physicians running clinics told me that, anecdotally, they’re seeing that pattern play out among their patient rosters too. The number of referrals coming into Alexandra Yonts’s long-COVID clinic at Children’s National, in Washington, D.C., for instance, has been steadily dropping in the past year, and the waitlist to be seen has shortened. The situation is similar, other experts told me, among adult patients at Yale and UCSF. Lisa Sanders, an internal-medicine physician who runs a clinic at Yale, told me that more recent cases of long COVID appear to be less debilitating than ones that manifested in 2020. “People who got the earliest versions definitely got whacked the worst,” she said.
That’s reflective of how our relationship to COVID has changed overall. In the same way that immunity can guard a body against COVID’s most severe, acute forms, it may also protect against certain kinds of long COVID. (Most experts consider long COVID to be an umbrella term for many related but separate syndromes.) Once wised up to a virus, our defenses become strong and fast-acting, more able to keep infection from spreading and lingering, as it might in some long-COVID cases. Courses of illness also tend to end more quickly, with less viral buildup, giving the immune system less time or reason to launch a campaign of friendly fire on other tissues, another potential trigger of chronic disease.
In line with that logic, a glut of studies has shown that vaccination—especially recent and repeated vaccination—can reduce a person’s chances of developing long COVID. “There is near universal agreement on that,” Ziyad Al-Aly, an epidemiologist and a clinician at Washington University in St. Louis, told me. Some experts think that antiviral use may be making a dent as well, by decreasing the proportion of COVID cases that progress to severe disease, a risk factor for certain types of long COVID. Others have pointed to the possibility that more recent variants of the virus—some of them maybe less likely to penetrate deeply into the lungs or affect certain especially susceptible organs—may be less apt to trigger chronic illness too.
But consensus on any of these points is lacking—especially on just how much, if at all, these interventions help. Experts are divided even on the effect of vaccines, which have the most evidence to back their protective punch: Some studies find that they trim risk by 15 percent, others up to about 70 percent. Paxlovid, too, has become a point of contention: While some analyses have shown that taking the antiviral early in infection helps prevent long COVID, others have found no effect at all. Any implication that we’ve tamed long COVID exaggerates how positive the overall picture is. Hannah Davis, one of the leaders of the Patient-Led Research Collaborative, who developed long COVID during the pandemic’s first months, told me that she’s seen how the most optimistic studies get the most attention from the media and the public. With a topic as unwieldy and challenging to understand as this, Davis said, “we still see overreactions to good news, and underreactions to bad news.”
That findings are all over the place on long COVID isn’t a shock. The condition still lacks a universal definition or a standard method of diagnosis; when recruiting patients into their studies, research groups can rely on distinctsets of criteria, inevitably yielding disparate and seemingly contradictory sets of results. With vaccines, for instance, the more wide-ranging the set of potential long-COVID symptoms a study looks at, the less effective shots may appear—simply because “vaccines don’t work on everything,” Al-Aly told me.
Studying long COVID has also gotten tougher. The less attention there is on COVID, “the less likely people are to associate long-term symptoms with it,” Priya Duggal, an infectious-disease epidemiologist at Johns Hopkins University, told me. Fewer people are testing for the virus. And some physicians still “don’t believe in long COVID—that’s what I hear a lot,” Sanders told me. The fact that fewer new long-COVID cases are appearing before researchers and clinicians could be in part driven by fewer diagnoses being made. Al-Aly worries that the situation could deteriorate further: Although long-COVID research is still chugging along, “momentum has stalled.” Others share his concern. Continued public disinterest, Duggal told me, could dissuade journals from publishing high-profile papers on the subject—or deter politicians from setting aside funds for future research.
Even if new cases of long COVID are less likely nowadays, the incidence rates haven’t dropped to zero. And rates of recovery are slow, low, and still murky. At this point, “people are entering this category at a greater rate than people are exiting this category,” Michael Peluso, a long-COVID researcher at UCSF, told me. The CDC’s Household Pulse Survey, for instance, shows that the proportion of American adults reporting that they’re currently dealing with long COVID has held steady—about 5 to 6 percent—for more than a year (though the numbers have dropped since 2021). Long COVID remains one of the most debilitating chronic conditions in today’s world—and full recovery remainsuncommon, especially, it seems, for those who have been dealing with the disease for the longest.
Exact numbers on recovery are tricky to come by, for the same reasons that it’s difficult to pin down how effective preventives are. Some studies report rates far more optimistic than others. David Putrino, a physical therapist who runs a long-COVID clinic at Mount Sinai Health System, where he and his colleagues have seen more than 3,000 long-haulers since the pandemic’s start, told me his best estimates err on the side of the prognosis being poor. About 20 percent of Putrino’s patients fully recover within the first few months, he told me. Beyond that, though, he routinely encounters people who experience only partial symptom relief—as well as a cohort that, “no matter what we think to try,” Putrino told me, “we can’t even seem to stop them from deteriorating.” Reports of higher recovery rates, Putrino and other experts said, might be conflating improvement with a return to baseline, or mistakenly assuming that people who stop responding to follow-ups are better, rather than just done participating.
Davis also worries that recovery rates could drop. Some researchers and clinicians have noticed that today’s new long-COVID patients are more likely than earlier patients to come in with certain neurological symptoms—among them, brain fog and dizziness—that have been linked to slower recovery trajectories, Lekshmi Santhosh, a pulmonary specialist at UCSF, told me.
In any case, recovery rates are still modest enough that long-COVID clinics across the country—even ones that have noted a dip in demand—remain very full. Currently, Putrino’s clinic has a waitlist of three to six months. The same is true for clinical trials investigating potential treatments. One, run by Peluso, that is investigating monoclonal-antibody therapy has a waitlist that is “hundreds of people deep,” Peluso told me: “We do not have the problem of not being able to find people who want to participate.”
Any decrease in long-COVID incidence may not last, either. Viral evolution could always produce a new variant or subvariant with higher risks of chronic issues. The protective effects of vaccination may also be quite temporary, and the fewer people who keep up to date with their shots, the more porous immunity’s safety net may become. In this way, kids—though seemingly less likely to develop long COVID overall—may remain worryingly vulnerable, Yonts told me, because they’re born entirely susceptible, and immunization rates in the youngest age groups remain extremely low. And yet, little kids who get long COVID may need to live with it the longest. Some of Yonts’s patients have barely started grade school and have already been sick for three-plus years—half of their lives so far, or more.
Long COVID can also manifest after repeat infections of SARS-CoV-2—and although several experts told me they think that each subsequent exposure poses less incremental risk, any additional exposure is worrisome. People all over the world are being exposed, over and over again, as the pathogen spreads with blistering speed, more or less year-round, in populations that have mostly dropped mitigations and are mostly behind on annual shots (where they’re available). Additional infections can worsen the symptoms of people living with long COVID, or yank them out of remission. Long COVID’s inequities may also widen as marginalized populations, less likely to receive vaccines or antivirals and more likely to be exposed to the virus, continue to develop the condition at higher rates.
There’s no question that COVID-19 has changed. The disease is more familiar; the threat of severe disease, although certainly not vanished, is quantitatively less now. But dismissing the dangers of the virus would be a mistake. Even if rates of new long-COVID cases continue to drop for some time, Yonts pointed out, they will likely stabilize somewhere. These risks will continue to haunt us and incur costs that will keep adding up. Long COVID may not kill as directly as severe, acute COVID has. But people’s lives still depend on avoiding it, Putrino told me—“at least, their life as they know it right now.”
We tend to pay more attention to our immune system during cold and flu season when germs are swirling around like a tornado. However, it’s important to focus on practices that will support and strengthen immunity throughout the year. Pathogens are always around us – they don’t take vacations. This means incorporating cold-fighting foods into daily meals.
No matter the time of year, concentrate on these cold-fighting foods to keep your immune system healthy and humming. They’ll not only improve your health and help reduce the severity of symptoms if you’re hit with an infection but make you feel energized, too!
how to support your immune system and 9 cold-fighting foods to cook with
Garlic
Why It’s Awesome
Garlic is a potent superfood with anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral properties. It’s been used throughout history to ward off infections, most recently in World War I and II, where garlic was applied to wounds to prevent infections and gangrene. But garlic isn’t just some folk-medicine remedy; there is modern scientific evidence that reveals it can protect us against the common cold.
In one study of 146 volunteers, the people who took a garlic supplement daily for three months were less likely to come down with colds than the placebo group. And, if the garlic group did contract a cold, they recovered much quicker than those taking the placebo. In another study, participants who swallowed aged garlic extract had fewer cold symptoms, missed fewer days of work, and improved faster than people who took the placebo. This led researchers to conclude that garlic enhances immune cell function and has an important role to play in diminishing the severity of colds and flus.
How to Enjoy
Garlic is one of our favourite cold-fighting foods because it can be used in so many dishes! Add it to your soups, stews, stir-fries, dips (like guacamole), or eat it straight-up raw if you feel a cold coming on. No one will want to kiss you (that garlic breath can be potent!), but if you’re sniffling and sneezing everyone’s likely giving you a wide berth anyway.
Onions
Photo: Alice Henneman
Why It’s Awesome
Like garlic, onion is an incredibly potent vegetable with cold-fighting properties. In addition to containing the anti-bacterial and anti-viral compound allicin (also found in garlic), onions have a flavanoid called quercetin, a potent antioxidant that protects our cells from damage and has been studied as a flu-fighter.
In one study of mice, researchers exercised the animals and then gave them quercetin or a placebo. The mice who received quercetin had a reduced risk of respiratory infections. Additional research on onion extracts given to rats showed that the onion boosted their immune system, raising their white blood cell count.
Onion can be used as one of the cold-fighting foods in a variety of soups, stews, stir-fries, breakfast casseroles, and omelettes, or eaten raw in salads.
Lemons
Why It’s Awesome
Lemons have earned their rightful place as one of the top cold-fighting foods because of their high content of Vitamin C. Vitamin C has become famous for its effect on the common cold, and it’s an important nutrient that supports and strengthens our immune system.
Lemons (and limes) are so easy to incorporate into your daily diet! Add a tablespoon of lemon juice to warm water in the morning (this also helps to kickstart digestion), incorporate it into green juices and smoothies, add it to your salad dressings, and use lemon to enhance the flavour of virtually any meal.
Wintertime is synonymous with butternut squash and winter squash, and they’re widely available at farmers’ markets and grocery stores. You can use them as you would any root vegetable: in soups, stews, and casseroles, but they can even be incorporated into smoothies, sliced and used as lasagna noodles in Paleo recipes, and puréed and then incorporated into sweet or savory baked goodies like these butternut squash muffins.
If you find yourself befuddled at all of the winter squash choices, check out our ultimate guide to winter squash that breaks down each variety and how to use them.
Ginger
Why It’s Awesome
Ginger has a delicious, spicy kick that is full to the brim with cold-fighting benefits. It settles the stomach and reduces nausea, making it an optimal food to consume when colds and flus leave you feeling nauseated.
You can also grate ginger into hot water with some lemon and raw honey for immune and anti-microbial support. If you’re feeling brave, you can also try making fire cider!
Bone Broth
Why It’s Awesome
Research on chicken soup shows that it can reduce inflammation, ease cold symptoms, and shorten the amount of time we suffer from respiratory symptoms. Scientists also suggested that broth can rehydrate us, which is particularly helpful if you’ve been spending a lot of time hugging the toilet.
You can ladle bone broth into a mug and sip away, or build a more substantial soup by adding onions, garlic, ginger, veggies, and dark leafy greens. Bone broth is also wonderful as the liquid for cooking grains or in sauces.
Sweet Potatoes
Why It’s Awesome
Sweet potatoes contain sky-high amounts of Vitamin A, which as we mentioned earlier, enhance and modulate immunity, as well as help to heal mucosal barriers that have been ravaged by infections. A single cup of sweet potatoes offers over 200% of your recommended daily value of Vitamin A!
But that’s not all – sweet potatoes are rich in the immune-supportive Vitamin C, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce the pain and swelling you might experience with a cold. You’ll also find a range of B-vitamins, which will help amp up your energy levels when dealing with a cold or flu and help you feel less stressed about it.
How to Enjoy
Sweet potatoes are a versatile cooking ingredient. Chop them up into chunks or wedges for sweet potato fries, roast them whole and then stuff them with beans and toppings, mash them with coconut oil and cinnamon, bake them into chips, use sweet potato purée in baked goods, grate them raw over salads, or spread them over your favourite shepherd’s pie instead of white potatoes.
Eat eggs for breakfast in a variety of ways: scrambled, poached, over-easy, soft-boiled, or however you love your eggs. Make an omelette or quiche, use them to bind crackers or gluten-free bread, have a hard-boiled egg as a snack or atop salads, or crack an egg into your hot noodle dishes.
Immune System Lifestyle Tips
These additional handy tips can help further support healthy immunity.
You’ve probably heard that stress negatively impacts our health in a variety of ways. When it comes to the immune system and cold and flu season, stress inhibits our adrenal hormones – particularly cortisol, which helps to regulate inflammation. Prolonged stress not only leaves us vulnerable to infections but also may impact our ability to fight infections once they set in. (For a detailed summary of stress and immunity, check out this meta-analysis.)
Drink loads of water
Hydration is essential to flushing out toxins, supporting digestion, reducing pain and headaches, and transporting chemical messengers throughout the body. So drink up – we recommend the cleanest water source you can find, without chlorine and other chemicals. If plain water sounds boring, try jazzing it up, or consume green juice, smoothies, or herbal teas.
Make your own herbal tinctures and syrups using cold-fighting foods
Concocting herbal tinctures isn’t as difficult as you might expect – all you need is a clean mason jar, a few healthful ingredients, and time. We have a full tutorial on homemade tinctures for you to try. For immune system support, try making Fire Cider, a fiery mix of a number of immune-enhancing food such as ginger, garlic, onion, horseradish, raw honey, and apple cider vinegar, or homemade elderberry syrup.
Integrating these 9 cold-fighting foods into your regular dietary rotation can help you support the immune system, prevent those inconvenient colds and flus, and help you recover more quickly if you do happen to succumb to the sniffles.
Header Image: iStock/marilyna
Free Resource Library
Enjoy more than 40 downloadable guides, recipes, and resources.
We tend to pay more attention to our immune system during cold and flu season when germs are swirling around like a tornado. However, it’s important to focus on practices that will support and strengthen immunity throughout the year. Pathogens are always around us – they don’t take vacations. This means incorporating cold-fighting foods into daily meals.
No matter the time of year, concentrate on these cold-fighting foods to keep your immune system healthy and humming. They’ll not only improve your health and help reduce the severity of symptoms if you’re hit with an infection but make you feel energized, too!
how to support your immune system and 9 cold-fighting foods to cook with
Garlic
Why It’s Awesome
Garlic is a potent superfood with anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral properties. It’s been used throughout history to ward off infections, most recently in World War I and II, where garlic was applied to wounds to prevent infections and gangrene. But garlic isn’t just some folk-medicine remedy; there is modern scientific evidence that reveals it can protect us against the common cold.
In one study of 146 volunteers, the people who took a garlic supplement daily for three months were less likely to come down with colds than the placebo group. And, if the garlic group did contract a cold, they recovered much quicker than those taking the placebo. In another study, participants who swallowed aged garlic extract had fewer cold symptoms, missed fewer days of work, and improved faster than people who took the placebo. This led researchers to conclude that garlic enhances immune cell function and has an important role to play in diminishing the severity of colds and flus.
How to Enjoy
Garlic is one of our favourite cold-fighting foods because it can be used in so many dishes! Add it to your soups, stews, stir-fries, dips (like guacamole), or eat it straight-up raw if you feel a cold coming on. No one will want to kiss you (that garlic breath can be potent!), but if you’re sniffling and sneezing everyone’s likely giving you a wide berth anyway.
Onions
Photo: Alice Henneman
Why It’s Awesome
Like garlic, onion is an incredibly potent vegetable with cold-fighting properties. In addition to containing the anti-bacterial and anti-viral compound allicin (also found in garlic), onions have a flavanoid called quercetin, a potent antioxidant that protects our cells from damage and has been studied as a flu-fighter.
In one study of mice, researchers exercised the animals and then gave them quercetin or a placebo. The mice who received quercetin had a reduced risk of respiratory infections. Additional research on onion extracts given to rats showed that the onion boosted their immune system, raising their white blood cell count.
Onion can be used as one of the cold-fighting foods in a variety of soups, stews, stir-fries, breakfast casseroles, and omelettes, or eaten raw in salads.
Lemons
Why It’s Awesome
Lemons have earned their rightful place as one of the top cold-fighting foods because of their high content of Vitamin C. Vitamin C has become famous for its effect on the common cold, and it’s an important nutrient that supports and strengthens our immune system.
Lemons (and limes) are so easy to incorporate into your daily diet! Add a tablespoon of lemon juice to warm water in the morning (this also helps to kickstart digestion), incorporate it into green juices and smoothies, add it to your salad dressings, and use lemon to enhance the flavour of virtually any meal.
Wintertime is synonymous with butternut squash and winter squash, and they’re widely available at farmers’ markets and grocery stores. You can use them as you would any root vegetable: in soups, stews, and casseroles, but they can even be incorporated into smoothies, sliced and used as lasagna noodles in Paleo recipes, and puréed and then incorporated into sweet or savory baked goodies like these butternut squash muffins.
If you find yourself befuddled at all of the winter squash choices, check out our ultimate guide to winter squash that breaks down each variety and how to use them.
Ginger
Why It’s Awesome
Ginger has a delicious, spicy kick that is full to the brim with cold-fighting benefits. It settles the stomach and reduces nausea, making it an optimal food to consume when colds and flus leave you feeling nauseated.
You can also grate ginger into hot water with some lemon and raw honey for immune and anti-microbial support. If you’re feeling brave, you can also try making fire cider!
Bone Broth
Why It’s Awesome
Research on chicken soup shows that it can reduce inflammation, ease cold symptoms, and shorten the amount of time we suffer from respiratory symptoms. Scientists also suggested that broth can rehydrate us, which is particularly helpful if you’ve been spending a lot of time hugging the toilet.
You can ladle bone broth into a mug and sip away, or build a more substantial soup by adding onions, garlic, ginger, veggies, and dark leafy greens. Bone broth is also wonderful as the liquid for cooking grains or in sauces.
Sweet Potatoes
Why It’s Awesome
Sweet potatoes contain sky-high amounts of Vitamin A, which as we mentioned earlier, enhance and modulate immunity, as well as help to heal mucosal barriers that have been ravaged by infections. A single cup of sweet potatoes offers over 200% of your recommended daily value of Vitamin A!
But that’s not all – sweet potatoes are rich in the immune-supportive Vitamin C, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce the pain and swelling you might experience with a cold. You’ll also find a range of B-vitamins, which will help amp up your energy levels when dealing with a cold or flu and help you feel less stressed about it.
How to Enjoy
Sweet potatoes are a versatile cooking ingredient. Chop them up into chunks or wedges for sweet potato fries, roast them whole and then stuff them with beans and toppings, mash them with coconut oil and cinnamon, bake them into chips, use sweet potato purée in baked goods, grate them raw over salads, or spread them over your favourite shepherd’s pie instead of white potatoes.
Eat eggs for breakfast in a variety of ways: scrambled, poached, over-easy, soft-boiled, or however you love your eggs. Make an omelette or quiche, use them to bind crackers or gluten-free bread, have a hard-boiled egg as a snack or atop salads, or crack an egg into your hot noodle dishes.
Immune System Lifestyle Tips
These additional handy tips can help further support healthy immunity.
You’ve probably heard that stress negatively impacts our health in a variety of ways. When it comes to the immune system and cold and flu season, stress inhibits our adrenal hormones – particularly cortisol, which helps to regulate inflammation. Prolonged stress not only leaves us vulnerable to infections but also may impact our ability to fight infections once they set in. (For a detailed summary of stress and immunity, check out this meta-analysis.)
Drink loads of water
Hydration is essential to flushing out toxins, supporting digestion, reducing pain and headaches, and transporting chemical messengers throughout the body. So drink up – we recommend the cleanest water source you can find, without chlorine and other chemicals. If plain water sounds boring, try jazzing it up, or consume green juice, smoothies, or herbal teas.
Make your own herbal tinctures and syrups using cold-fighting foods
Concocting herbal tinctures isn’t as difficult as you might expect – all you need is a clean mason jar, a few healthful ingredients, and time. We have a full tutorial on homemade tinctures for you to try. For immune system support, try making Fire Cider, a fiery mix of a number of immune-enhancing food such as ginger, garlic, onion, horseradish, raw honey, and apple cider vinegar, or homemade elderberry syrup.
Integrating these 9 cold-fighting foods into your regular dietary rotation can help you support the immune system, prevent those inconvenient colds and flus, and help you recover more quickly if you do happen to succumb to the sniffles.
Header Image: iStock/marilyna
Free Resource Library
Enjoy more than 40 downloadable guides, recipes, and resources.
We tend to pay more attention to our immune system during cold and flu season when germs are swirling around like a tornado. However, it’s important to focus on practices that will support and strengthen immunity throughout the year. Pathogens are always around us – they don’t take vacations. This means incorporating cold-fighting foods into daily meals.
No matter the time of year, concentrate on these cold-fighting foods to keep your immune system healthy and humming. They’ll not only improve your health and help reduce the severity of symptoms if you’re hit with an infection but make you feel energized, too!
how to support your immune system and 9 cold-fighting foods to cook with
Garlic
Why It’s Awesome
Garlic is a potent superfood with anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral properties. It’s been used throughout history to ward off infections, most recently in World War I and II, where garlic was applied to wounds to prevent infections and gangrene. But garlic isn’t just some folk-medicine remedy; there is modern scientific evidence that reveals it can protect us against the common cold.
In one study of 146 volunteers, the people who took a garlic supplement daily for three months were less likely to come down with colds than the placebo group. And, if the garlic group did contract a cold, they recovered much quicker than those taking the placebo. In another study, participants who swallowed aged garlic extract had fewer cold symptoms, missed fewer days of work, and improved faster than people who took the placebo. This led researchers to conclude that garlic enhances immune cell function and has an important role to play in diminishing the severity of colds and flus.
How to Enjoy
Garlic is one of our favourite cold-fighting foods because it can be used in so many dishes! Add it to your soups, stews, stir-fries, dips (like guacamole), or eat it straight-up raw if you feel a cold coming on. No one will want to kiss you (that garlic breath can be potent!), but if you’re sniffling and sneezing everyone’s likely giving you a wide berth anyway.
Onions
Photo: Alice Henneman
Why It’s Awesome
Like garlic, onion is an incredibly potent vegetable with cold-fighting properties. In addition to containing the anti-bacterial and anti-viral compound allicin (also found in garlic), onions have a flavanoid called quercetin, a potent antioxidant that protects our cells from damage and has been studied as a flu-fighter.
In one study of mice, researchers exercised the animals and then gave them quercetin or a placebo. The mice who received quercetin had a reduced risk of respiratory infections. Additional research on onion extracts given to rats showed that the onion boosted their immune system, raising their white blood cell count.
Onion can be used as one of the cold-fighting foods in a variety of soups, stews, stir-fries, breakfast casseroles, and omelettes, or eaten raw in salads.
Lemons
Why It’s Awesome
Lemons have earned their rightful place as one of the top cold-fighting foods because of their high content of Vitamin C. Vitamin C has become famous for its effect on the common cold, and it’s an important nutrient that supports and strengthens our immune system.
Lemons (and limes) are so easy to incorporate into your daily diet! Add a tablespoon of lemon juice to warm water in the morning (this also helps to kickstart digestion), incorporate it into green juices and smoothies, add it to your salad dressings, and use lemon to enhance the flavour of virtually any meal.
Wintertime is synonymous with butternut squash and winter squash, and they’re widely available at farmers’ markets and grocery stores. You can use them as you would any root vegetable: in soups, stews, and casseroles, but they can even be incorporated into smoothies, sliced and used as lasagna noodles in Paleo recipes, and puréed and then incorporated into sweet or savory baked goodies like these butternut squash muffins.
If you find yourself befuddled at all of the winter squash choices, check out our ultimate guide to winter squash that breaks down each variety and how to use them.
Ginger
Why It’s Awesome
Ginger has a delicious, spicy kick that is full to the brim with cold-fighting benefits. It settles the stomach and reduces nausea, making it an optimal food to consume when colds and flus leave you feeling nauseated.
You can also grate ginger into hot water with some lemon and raw honey for immune and anti-microbial support. If you’re feeling brave, you can also try making fire cider!
Bone Broth
Why It’s Awesome
Research on chicken soup shows that it can reduce inflammation, ease cold symptoms, and shorten the amount of time we suffer from respiratory symptoms. Scientists also suggested that broth can rehydrate us, which is particularly helpful if you’ve been spending a lot of time hugging the toilet.
You can ladle bone broth into a mug and sip away, or build a more substantial soup by adding onions, garlic, ginger, veggies, and dark leafy greens. Bone broth is also wonderful as the liquid for cooking grains or in sauces.
Sweet Potatoes
Why It’s Awesome
Sweet potatoes contain sky-high amounts of Vitamin A, which as we mentioned earlier, enhance and modulate immunity, as well as help to heal mucosal barriers that have been ravaged by infections. A single cup of sweet potatoes offers over 200% of your recommended daily value of Vitamin A!
But that’s not all – sweet potatoes are rich in the immune-supportive Vitamin C, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce the pain and swelling you might experience with a cold. You’ll also find a range of B-vitamins, which will help amp up your energy levels when dealing with a cold or flu and help you feel less stressed about it.
How to Enjoy
Sweet potatoes are a versatile cooking ingredient. Chop them up into chunks or wedges for sweet potato fries, roast them whole and then stuff them with beans and toppings, mash them with coconut oil and cinnamon, bake them into chips, use sweet potato purée in baked goods, grate them raw over salads, or spread them over your favourite shepherd’s pie instead of white potatoes.
Eat eggs for breakfast in a variety of ways: scrambled, poached, over-easy, soft-boiled, or however you love your eggs. Make an omelette or quiche, use them to bind crackers or gluten-free bread, have a hard-boiled egg as a snack or atop salads, or crack an egg into your hot noodle dishes.
Immune System Lifestyle Tips
These additional handy tips can help further support healthy immunity.
You’ve probably heard that stress negatively impacts our health in a variety of ways. When it comes to the immune system and cold and flu season, stress inhibits our adrenal hormones – particularly cortisol, which helps to regulate inflammation. Prolonged stress not only leaves us vulnerable to infections but also may impact our ability to fight infections once they set in. (For a detailed summary of stress and immunity, check out this meta-analysis.)
Drink loads of water
Hydration is essential to flushing out toxins, supporting digestion, reducing pain and headaches, and transporting chemical messengers throughout the body. So drink up – we recommend the cleanest water source you can find, without chlorine and other chemicals. If plain water sounds boring, try jazzing it up, or consume green juice, smoothies, or herbal teas.
Make your own herbal tinctures and syrups using cold-fighting foods
Concocting herbal tinctures isn’t as difficult as you might expect – all you need is a clean mason jar, a few healthful ingredients, and time. We have a full tutorial on homemade tinctures for you to try. For immune system support, try making Fire Cider, a fiery mix of a number of immune-enhancing food such as ginger, garlic, onion, horseradish, raw honey, and apple cider vinegar, or homemade elderberry syrup.
Integrating these 9 cold-fighting foods into your regular dietary rotation can help you support the immune system, prevent those inconvenient colds and flus, and help you recover more quickly if you do happen to succumb to the sniffles.
Header Image: iStock/marilyna
Free Resource Library
Enjoy more than 40 downloadable guides, recipes, and resources.
Growing up in India, which for decades has clocked millions of tuberculosis cases each year, Lalita Ramakrishnan was intimately familiar with how devastating the disease can be. The world’s greatest infectious killer, rivaled only by SARS-CoV-2, Mycobacterium tuberculosis spreads through the air and infiltrates the airways, in many cases destroying the lungs. It can trigger inflammation in other tissues too, wearing away bones and joints; Ramakrishnan watched her own mother’s body erode in this way. The sole available vaccine was lackluster; the microbe had rapidly evolved resistance to the drugs used to fight it. And the disease had a particularly insidious trait: After entering the body, the bacterium could stow away for years or decades, before erupting without warning into full-blown disease.
This state, referred to as latency, supposedly afflicted roughly 2 billion people—a quarter of the world’s population. Ramakrishnan, now a TB researcher at the University of Cambridge, heard that fact over and over, and passed it down to her own students; it was what every expert did with the dogma at the time. That pool of 2 billion people was understood to account for a large majority of infections worldwide, and it represented one of the most intimidating obstacles to eradicating the disease. To end TB for good, the thinking went, the world would need to catch and cure every latent case.
In the years since, Ramakrishnan’s stance on latent TB has shifted quite a bit. Its extent, she argues, has been exaggerated for a good three decades, by at least an order of magnitude—to the point where it has scrambled priorities, led scientists on wild-goose chases, and unnecessarily saddled people with months of burdensome treatment. In her view, the term latency is so useless, so riddled with misinformation, that it should disappear. “I taught that nonsense forever,” she told me; now she’s spreading the word that TB’s largest, flashiest number may instead be its greatest, most persistent myth.
Ramakrishnan isn’t the only one who thinks so. Together with her colleagues Marcel Behr, of Quebec’s McGill University, and Paul Edelstein, of the University of Pennsylvania (“we call ourselves the three BERs,” Ramakrishnan told me), she’s been on a years-long crusade to set the recordstraight. Their push has attracted its fair share of followers—and objectors. “I don’t think they’re wrong,” Carl Nathan, a TB researcher at Cornell, told me. “But I’m not confident they’re right.”
Several researchers told me they’re largely fine with the basic premise of the BERs’ argument: Fewer than 2 billion isn’t that hard to get behind. But how many fewer matters. If current latency estimates overshoot by just a smidge, maybe no practical changes are necessary. The greater the overestimate, though, the more treatment recommendations might need to change; the more research and funding priorities might need to shift; the more plans to control, eliminate, and eventually eradicate disease might need to be wholly and permanently rethought.
The muddled numbers on latency seem to be based largely on flawed assumptions about certain TB tests. One of the primary ways to screen people for the disease involves pricking harmless derivatives of the bacterium into skin, then waiting for an inflamed lump to appear—a sign that the immune system is familiar with the microbe (or a TB vaccine), but not direct proof that the bacterium itself is present. That means that positive results can guarantee only that the immune system encountered something resembling MTB at some point—perhaps even in the distant past, Rein Houben, an epidemiologist at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, told me.
But for a long time, a prevailing assumption among researchers was that all TB infections had the potential to be lifelong, Behr told me. The thought wasn’t entirely far-fetched: Other microbial infections can last a lifetime, and there are historical accounts of lasting MTB infections, including a case in which a man developed tuberculosis more than 30 years after his father passed the bacterium to him. Following that logic—that anyone once infected had a good enough chance of being infected now—researchers added everyone still reacting to the bug to the pool of people actively battling it. By the end of the 1990s, Behr and Houben told me, prominent epidemiologists had used this premise to produce the big 2 billion number, estimating that roughly a third of the population had MTB lurking within.
But, as the BERs argue, for TB to be a lifelong sentence makes very little sense. Decades of epidemiological data show that the overwhelming majority of disease arises within the first two years after infection, most commonly within months. Beyond that, progression to symptomatic, contagious illness becomes vanishingly rare.
The trio is convinced that a huge majority of people are clearing the bug from their body rather than letting it lie indefinitely in wait—a notion that recent modeling studies support. If the bacteria were lingering, researchers would expect to see a big spike in disease late in life among people with positive skin tests, as their immune system naturally weakens. They would also expect to see a high rate of progression to full-blown TB among people who start taking immunosuppressive drugs or catch HIV. And yet, neither of those trends pans out: At most, some 5 to 10 percent of people who have tested positive by skin test and later sustain a blow to their immune system develop TB disease within about three to five years—a hint that, for almost everyone else, there may not be any MTB left. “If there were a slam-dunk experiment, that’s it,” William Bishai, a TB researcher at Johns Hopkins, told me.
Nathan, of Cornell, was less sold. Immunosuppressive drugs and HIV flip very specific switches in the immune system; if MTB is being held in check by multiple branches, losing some immune defenses may not be enough to set the bacteria loose. But most of the experts I spoke with are convinced that lasting cases are quite uncommon. “Some people will get into trouble in old age,” Bouke de Jong, a TB researcher at the Institute of Tropical Medicine, in Antwerp, told me. “But is that how MTB hangs out in everybody? I don’t think so.”
If anything, people with positive skin tests might beless likely to eventually develop disease, Ramakrishnan told me, whether because they harbor defenses against MTB or because they are genetically predisposed to clear the microbe from their airway. In either case, that could radically change the upshot of a positive test, especially in countries such as the U.S. and Canada, where MTB transmission rarely occurs and most TB cases can be traced from abroad. Traditionally, people in these places with positive skin tests and no overt symptoms have been told, “‘This means you’ve got sleeping bacteria in you,’” Behr said. “‘Any day now, it may pop out and cause harm.’” Instead, he told me, health-care workers should be communicating widely that there could be up to a 95 percent chance that these patients have already cleared the infection, especially if they’re far out from their last exposure and might not need a drug regimen. TB drugs, although safe, are not completely benign: Standard regimens last for months, interact with other meds, and can have serious side effects.
At the same time, researchers disagree on just how much risk remains once people are a couple of years past an MTB exposure. “We’ve known for decades that we are overtreating people,” says Madhu Pai, a TB researcher at McGill who works with Behr but was not directly involved in his research. But treating a lot of people with positive skin tests has been the only way to ensure that the people who are carrying viable bacteria get the drugs they need, Robert Horsburgh, an epidemiologist at Boston University, told me. That strategy squares, too, with the goal of elimination in places where spread is rare. To purge as much of the bug as possible, “clinicians will err on the side of caution,” says JoAnne Flynn, a TB researcher at the University of Pittsburgh.
Elsewhere in the world, where MTB transmission is rampant and repeat infections are common, “to be honest, nobody cares if there’s latent TB,” Flynn told me. Many people with very symptomatic, very contagious cases still aren’t getting diagnosed or treated; in too many places, the availability of drugs and vaccines is spotty at best. Elimination remains a long-term goal, but active outbreaks demand attention first. Arguably, quibbling about latency now is like trying to snuff stray sparks next to an untended conflagration.
One of the BERs’ main goals could help address TB’s larger issues. Despite decades of research, the best detection tools for the disease remain “fundamentally flawed,” says Keertan Dheda, a TB researcher at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine and the University of Cape Town. A test that could directly detect viable microbes in tissues, rather than an immune proxy, could definitively diagnose ongoing infections and prioritize people across the disease spectrum for treatment. Such a diagnostic would also be the only way to finally end the fuss over latent TB’s prevalence. Without it, researchers are still sifting through only indirect evidence to get at the global TB burden—which is probably still “in the hundreds of millions” of cases, Houben told me, though the numbers will remain squishy until the data improve.
That 2 billion number is still around—though not everywhere, thanks in part to the BERs’ efforts. The WHO’s most recent annual TB reports now note that a quarter of the world’s population has been infected with MTB, rather than is infected with MTB; the organization has also officially discarded the term latent from its guidance on the disease, Dennis Falzon, of the WHO Global TB Programme, told me in an email. However subtle, these shifts signal that even the world’s biggest authorities on TB are dispensing with what was once conventional wisdom.
Losing that big number does technically shrink TB’s reach—which might seem to minimize the disease’s impact. Behr argues the opposite. With a huge denominator, TB’s mortality rate ends up minuscule—suggesting that most infections are benign. Deflating the 2 billion statistic, then, reinforces that “this is one of the world’s nastiest pathogens, not some symbiont that we live with in peace,” Behr told me. Fewer people may be at risk than was once thought. But for those who are harboring the microbe, the dangers are that much more real.
Hope is on the horizon for millions of Alzheimer’s disease patients as scientists develop a new target for Alzheimer’s treatment: the immune system.
Alzheimer’s affects roughly 5.8 million Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The progressive disease is the most common form of dementia and is associated with memory loss and cognitive decline in regions of the brain involved in thought, memory and language.
Scientists believe that Alzheimer’s is caused by the abnormal buildup of proteins in and around the brain cells, but exactly what triggers this is still unclear.
Today, there is no known cure for Alzheimer’s. However, new medications may offer relief to patients and slow the disease’s progression. And our body’s immune system can help with this.
“There are many approaches that are in various stages of development that target the immune system, which is now known to play a key role in Alzheimer’s disease,” Todd Golde, a professor of pharmacology, chemical biology and neurology at Emory University, told Newsweek.
One particularly exciting approach involves the use of antibodies that can target and bind to the abnormal protein clumps that form in the brain. “This results in clearance or reduction of [the protein clumps],” Golde said.
Golde and colleague Allan Levey have summarized this approach in a recently published perspective in the journal Science.
Precisely what mediates this interaction is still unknown, but Golde said that the brain’s private squad of immune cells may play an important role. These cells, called microglia, are found exclusively in the brain and central nervous system and can engulf problematic proteins and infectious particles like bacteria. Therefore, researchers believe that the antibodies may act as little molecular flags to signal to the microglial cells that a mess needs cleaning up—a mess in the form of an Alzheimer ‘s-associated protein clump.
Based on clinical trials, these antibodies offer a very promising avenue for future treatments.
“These treatments slow decline in the very earliest symptomatic stages of Alzheimer’s disease on average by about 25 to 30 percent over 18 months of treatment,” Golde said. “Notably, the antibodies show quite remarkable impacts on amyloid deposits [aka the protein clumps] themselves.”
Unlike previous therapies designed to ease symptoms and boost cognitive function, Golde said that these antibodies represent the first therapies capable of altering the course of the disease.
“Having a disease-modifying therapy (like this) is in some ways a game changer for Alzheimer’s disease, as it says that we can alter the course of this devastating disease and slow it down,” Golde said. “This is just a start, and that either improved versions of these therapies, other types of disease-modifying therapies, or combination therapies will likely in the future lead to treatments with bigger impacts, halting or preventing disease.”
Artist’s impression of a nerve cell surrounded by antibodies. Antibody treatments may be the future of Alzheimer’s therapy. peterschreiber.media/Getty
Two of the antibodies used in these trials have already been FDA approved; the third is expected to be approved in 2024. However, care still needs to be taken over their use.
“Because of potential for side effects, the need to treat patients early in the symptomatic phase of the disease in individuals [and] the fact that they are currently given through multiple IV infusions and require careful monitoring, there are some barriers to widespread use [of these antibodies],” Golde said. “Indeed, there is appropriate caution among most clinicians to ensure that the right patients most likely to benefit from these therapies are treated.”
Golde stresses that, while these results are fascinating, we are still a long way from effectively treating Alzheimer’s.
“Though this represents an initial success, huge unmet medical need remains,” he said. “We need continuing investment in the public and private sectors to ensure that we can meet that need and build off this initial, but limited, success.”
Is there a health issue that’s worrying you? Do you have a question about Alzheimer’s? Let us know via health@newsweek.com. We can ask experts for advice, and your story could be featured on Newsweek.
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
With flu season in full swing, Riverside County public health officials are urging residents to get their vaccines and to take other precautions against respiratory viruses after reporting the county’s first two flu-related deaths this winter.
The deaths include a 73-year-old man and a 79-year-old woman from mid- and western Riverside County, respectively. Both had underlying health issues and died at local hospitals, according to county officials. No further information was immediately provided.
Last month, Los Angeles County confirmed its first flu death of the season. The deceased was an elderly resident with multiple underlying conditions and had no record of influenza vaccination this season, according to county health officials.
According to Riverside County’s weekly influenza surveillance report, current influenza-like illnesses activity levels are moderate in the area. The county typically logs people aged 65 and older as the bulk of pneumonia and influenza deaths in the county with few occurring among those 24 and younger. Data collected between Nov. 19-25 show pneumonia contributed to the bulk of deaths, which were largely affected by other diseases such as COVID-19.
“These tragedies remind us that influenza can be serious, especially for those who have health issues or weakened immune systems,” Dr. Geoffrey Leung, public health officer for Riverside County, said in a statement. “There are simple steps that can be taken to protect ourselves. Most important of these is to get vaccinated. We recommend that everyone over 6 months of age receive the flu vaccine.”
Respiratory viruses such as the flu and COVID-19 spread year-round but are more common in the United States between October and March. The virus is spread through coughing and sneezing. Anyone is prone to catch the virus but elderly people, children and those with weakened immune systems are more at risk.
Health officials urge people to stay up-to-date on vaccines, remain at home if sick, consider wearing a face mask, cover a cough or sneeze and wash hands throughout the day.
There were times, during the first two years of the Biden presidency, when I came close to forgetting about it all: the taunts and the provocations; the incitements and the resentments; the disorchestrated reasoning; the verbal incontinence; the press conferences fueled by megalomania, vengeance, and a soupçon of hydroxychloroquine. I forgot, almost, that we’d had a man in the White House who governed by tweet. I forgot that the news cycle had shrunk down to microseconds. I forgot, even, that we’d had a president with a personality so disordered and a mind so dysregulated (this being a central irony, that our nation’s top executive had zero executive function) that the generals around him had to choose between carrying out presidential orders and upholding the Constitution.
Explore the January/February 2024 Issue
Check out more from this issue and find your next story to read.
I forgot, in short, that I’d spent nearly five years scanning the veldt for threats, indulging in the most neurotic form of magical thinking, convinced that my monitoring of Twitter alone was what stood between Trump and national ruin, just as Erica Jong believed that her concentration and vigilance were what kept her flight from plunging into the sea.
Say what you want about Joe Biden: He’s allowed us to go days at a time without remembering he’s there.
But now here we are, faced with the prospect of a Trump restoration. We’ve already seen the cruelty and chaos that having a malignant narcissist in the Oval Office entails. What will happen to the American psyche if he wins again? What will happen if we have to live in fight-or-flight mode for four more years, and possibly far beyond?
Our bodies are not designed to handle chronic stress. Neuroscientists have a term for the tipping-point moment when we capitulate to it—allostatic overload—and the result is almost always sickness in one form or another, whether it’s a mood disorder, substance abuse, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, or ulcers. “Increase your blood pressure for a few minutes to evade a lion—a good thing,” Robert Sapolsky, one of the country’s most esteemed researchers of stress, emailed me when I asked him about Trump’s effect on our bodies. But “increase your blood pressure every time you’re in the vicinity of the alpha male—you begin to get cardiovascular disease.” Excess levels of the stress hormone cortisol for extended periods is terrible for the human body; it hurts the immune system in ways that, among other things, can lead to worse outcomes for COVID and other diseases. (One 2019 study, published in JAMA Network Open, reported that Trump’s election to the White House correlated with a spike in premature births among Latina women.)
Another major component of our allostatic overload, notes Gloria Mark, the author of Attention Span, would be “technostress,” in this case brought on by the obsessive checking of—and interruptions from, and passing around of—news, which Trump made with destructive rapidity. Human brains are not designed to handle such a helter-skelter onslaught; effective multitasking, according to Mark, is in fact a complete myth (there’s always a cost to our productivity). Yet we are once again facing a news cycle that will shove our attention—as well as our output, our nerves, our sanity—through a Cuisinart.
One might reasonably ask how many Americans will truly care about the constant churn of chaos, given how many of us still walk around in a fug of political apathy. Quite a few, apparently. The American Psychological Association’s annual stress survey, conducted by the Harris Poll, found that 68 percent of Americans reported that the 2020 election was a significant source of strain. Kevin B. Smith, a political-science professor at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, found that about 40 percent of American adults identified politics as “a significant source of stress in their lives,” based on YouGov surveys he commissioned in 2017 and 2020. Even more remarkably, Smith found that about 5 percent reported having had suicidal thoughts because of our politics.
Richard A. Friedman, a clinical psychiatry professor at Weill Cornell Medical College, wonders if a second Trump term would be like a second, paralyzing blow in boxing, translating into “learned helplessness on a population-level scale,” in which a substantial proportion of us curdle into listlessness and despair. Such an epidemic would be terrible, especially for the young; we’d have a generation of nihilists on our hands, with all future efforts to #Resist potentially melting under the waffle iron of its own hashtag.
Which is what a would-be totalitarian wants—a republic of the indifferent.
Ironically, were Trump to win, an important group of his supporters would bear a particular psychological burden of their own, and that’s our elected GOP officials. I’ve written before that Trump’s presidency sometimes seemed like an extended Milgram experiment, with Republican politicians subjected to more and more horrifying requests. During round two, they’d be asked to do far worse, and live in even greater terror of his base—and even greater terror of him, as he tells them, in the manner of all malignant narcissists, that they’d be nothing without him. And he wouldn’t be wholly wrong.
The Trump base, however, will be intoxicated. We should brace ourselves for a second uncorking of what Philip Roth called “the indigenous American berserk”: The Proud Boys will be prouder; the Alex Jones conspiracists will let their false-flag freakishness fly; the “Great Replacement” theorists will become more savage in their rhetoric about Black, Hispanic, and Jewish people. (The Trump administration coincided with a measurable increase in hate crimes, incited in no small part by the man himself.)
But at this point, even an electoral defeat for Trump might not significantly diminish the toll that politics is taking on the collective American psyche. “In such a polarized society, everyone is always living with a lot of hate and fear and suspicion,” Rebecca Saxe, a neuroscientist at MIT who thinks a good deal about tribalism, told me. The winner of the presidential election “may change who bears the burden every four or eight years, but not the burden itself.”
Of course, fractured attention, heightened anxiety, and moral cynicism may come to seem like picayune problems if Trump wins and some 250 years of constitutional norms and rules unravel before our eyes, or we’re in a nuclear war with China, or the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff is frog-marched off to court for treason.
This article appears in the January/February 2024 print edition with the headline “The Psychic Toll.” When you buy a book using a link on this page, we receive a commission. Thank you for supporting The Atlantic.
The paradox of exposing children to germs, also called hygiene hypothesis, is a captivating discussion in child development. It challenges conventional wisdom that emphasizes absolute cleanliness and hygiene.
Controlled exposure to environmental microorganisms can help strengthen a child’s immune system. The immune system, much like a muscle, requires regular exercise to develop and function optimally.
When children encounter germs in a controlled manner, their immune systems learn to recognize and respond to potential threats. This builds resilience over time.
This controlled exposure is not advocating for unsanitary conditions, but rather for an environment that allows them to interact with a variety of microorganisms in a way that stimulates their immune systems without causing harm.
Studies suggest that children who grow up in excessively sterile environments may have higher rates of allergies, asthma, and other immune-related issues.
Changes of lifestyle in industrialized countries have led to a decrease of the infectious burden and are associated with the rise of allergic and autoimmune diseases, according to the ‘hygiene hypothesis’.
A robust immune system is the cornerstone of child health. Exposure to a variety of germs in the environment allows the immune system to develop a diverse range of defenses> This automatically allows the body to become resilient to potential illnesses.
The hygiene hypothesis proposes that limited early exposure to microbes hinders the development of a well-balanced immune system, increasing susceptibility to various health issues.
Instead of shielding children from every microbe, it is vital to let them navigate the microbial world. Nature serves as a rich playground for diverse microbes. Encourage outdoor activities, to allow children to interact with soil, plants, and even animals in a controlled environment.
Embracing a more relaxed approach to cleanliness may pave the way for healthier outcomes.
But balancing exposure to germs doesn’t necessarily mean that personal hygiene is not important. Encouraging regular hand washing and basic cleanliness habits is just as important.
Make sure to teach your child the difference between good and harmful germs to empower them to make informed choices about their health.
Examples as to Why Germs are Good
Photo by Michael Morse: (Pexels)
Germs are microorganisms. -They can be found everywhere – in the air, soil, and water. Many germs live in and on our bodies without causing harm.
The main types of germs are bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
Here are some specific examples of how exposing children to germs can be beneficial:
Building a Strong Immune System: Controlled exposure to germs helps train the immune system, allowing it to recognize and defend against harmful pathogens. For example, allowing children to play outdoors exposes them to a variety of microbes, contributing to the development of a robust immune response.
Enhancing Natural Immunity: Mild exposure to certain infections can contribute to the development of natural immunity. For example, contracting common childhood illnesses, like chickenpox, can provide lifelong immunity and reduce the risk of severe cases in adulthood.
Microbiome Development: Exposure to diverse microbes helps establish a balanced microbiome, the community of microorganisms living in and on the body. For example, encouraging children to interact with pets or spend time in nature introduces them to different microbes that contribute to a healthy microbiome.
Exposure to germs can help protect children from allergies. A study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that children who were exposed to more germs in their early childhood were less likely to develop allergies later in life.
Exposure to germs can help protect children from asthma. A study published in the journal Thorax found that children who were exposed to more germs in their early childhood were less likely to develop asthma later in life.
Exposure to germs can help protect children from autoimmune diseases. A study published in the journal Gut found that children who were exposed to more germs in their early childhood were less likely to develop autoimmune diseases later in life.
Infants exposed to rodent and pet dander, roach allergens and a wide variety of household bacteria in the first year of life appear less likely to suffer from allergies, wheezing and asthma,
Of course, there are also some risks associated with exposing children to germs. For example, children who are exposed to more germs are more likely to get sick in the short term. However, the long-term benefits of exposure to germs often outweigh the short-term risks.
How to Build Resilience from Day One through Controlled Exposure
Controlled exposure doesn’t mean throwing children into unsanitary environments. Instead, it involves a gradual and measured introduction to various microbes.
Implementing a step-by-step approach ensures a balanced and safe experience for your child.
Here are tips for safe exposure:
Let children play outdoors. This is a great way for them to be exposed to a variety of germs. Let them roll around and mix with the environment!
Gardening: Involve children in gardening activities, like planting, weeding, and harvesting. Contact with soil exposes them to beneficial microbes that can support a healthy immune system.
Don’t be afraid to let children get dirty. Dirt is not always a bad thing. It can actually help them build their immune systems in many ways.
Limited Use of Antibacterial Products: Avoid overusing antibacterial soaps and cleaning products. Allowing some exposure to everyday germs helps the immune system develop a balanced response.
Pet Companionship: Growing up with pets can expose children to a myriad of microbes in a joyful and controlled setting. Having a family pet, such as a dog or cat, provides an opportunity for regular, low-risk microbial exposure, fostering a positive impact on immune development.
Social Interaction: Allow interaction with other children, friends, and family members. Socializing exposes children to different microbes and helps develop social skills.
Teach children good hygiene habits. This includes washing their hands often, covering their mouths when they cough or sneeze, and not sharing food or drinks.
Don’t Forget to Address Safety Concerns
It is also important to remember that not all germs are created equal. Some are more harmful than others. It is important to teach children to avoid contact with germs that can cause serious illnesses.
Photo by Sasha Kim: (Pexels)
It is essential to differentiate between harmful pathogens and the beneficial microbes essential for immune system development. Consulting with pediatricians can provide valuable insights into age-appropriate strategies for controlled exposure.
Secondly, introduce probiotic-rich foods in your child’s diet. Probiotics, often referred to as “good bacteria,” play a pivotal role in gut health. Incorporate probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables into your child’s diet.
These foods contribute to a healthy microbial balance, supporting digestion and immune function.
And Finally …
The age-old adage “a little dirt won’t hurt” holds profound wisdom when it comes to raising resilient and healthy children.
Controlled exposure to germs, when approached thoughtfully, contributes to the development of a robust immune system. By fostering a balance between hygiene and microbial exploration, parents can empower their children to navigate the world with confidence and vigor.
Encouraging activities like playing outdoors or interacting with pets, can contribute to the development of a robust immune system. However, it is important to do so in a safe and responsible way.
Ahead of the winter respiratory virus season, many parents were relieved the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a shot to combat respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, for infants and toddlers this summer.
But the shot is hard to come by.
RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms in most adults who recover in a week or two, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But that’s not the case for infants and toddlers, who are at higher risk of the virus becoming severe or life-threatening.
Two months later, federal regulators approved the first long-lasting shot for infants younger than 8 months who are entering their first RSV season. According to the CDC, Nirsevimab, which is made by AstraZeneca and sold under the brand name Beyfortus, reduces the risk of severe RSV by 80%. One dose lasts about five months, the length of the average RSV season.
The shot does not activate the immune system the way a vaccine would, but instead introduces antibodies to protect against RSV. Health officials with the CDC say once the antibodies are out of a baby’s system, the immunity is also gone.
Amid the peak of RSV season, there has been unprecedented demand for the shot and not enough supplies to go around.
The CDC recently announced the release of more than 77,000 additional doses to be distributed immediately to physicians and hospitals through the Vaccines for Children Program. The CDC and FDA are working with drug manufacturers to ensure availability through early next year.
What preventive measures can parents can take?
Children at high risk include those 6 months and younger, infants born prematurely, those younger than 2 with congenital heart disease and those with weakened immune systems who have neuromuscular disorders, according to the American Lung Assn.
Previously, the only immunization against severe RSV for babies was a shot women could get during weeks 32 through 36 of pregnancy. That shot is still available and recommended September through January.
There also are everyday preventive measures to help reduce the spread of RSV and other respiratory illnesses, according to health agencies such as the CDC, American Lung Assn. and the California Department of Public Health:
Stay home if you’re feeling sick.
If you need to leave your home, consider wearing a mask in crowded or indoor areas.
Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
Cover your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze.
Avoid close contact with others, such as kissing, shaking hands and sharing cups and utensils.
Clean frequently touched surfaces, including doorknobs and mobile devices.
What are the signs of RSV?
RSV affects both the upper respiratory system, which includes the nose and throat, and the lower respiratory system, which includes the lungs.
The virus is highly transmissible. You can catch it if the droplets from an infected person’s cough or sneeze get in your eyes, nose or mouth; if you touch a surface (such as a doorknob) that has the virus on it and then touch your face before washing your hands; or if you have direct contact with the virus (for example, by kissing the face of a child with RSV). Being in crowded places with people who may be infected or having exposure to other children or siblings who may be infected are common ways to pick up the virus.
RSV can survive for many hours on hard surfaces such as tables and crib rails; it has a shorter life span on softer surfaces such as tissues and hands.
A person infected with RSV is usually contagious for three to eight days. However, some infants and people with weakened immune systems can continue to spread the virus for as long as four weeks, even after their symptoms go away, according to the CDC.
Virtually all children get an RSV infection by the time they are 2, but the virus can cause complications, the CDC said.
Health agencies recommend parents reach out to their healthcare provider if their child is showing signs of infection.
According to health officials at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, the most common symptoms are runny nose; fever; cough; short periods without breathing; trouble eating, drinking or swallowing; wheezing, flaring of nostrils or straining of the chest or stomach while breathing; breathing faster than usual or trouble breathing; and turning blue around the lips and fingers.
These symptoms can seem like other health conditions, so the hospital advises parents to have their child see a healthcare provider for a diagnosis.
