In these challenging times, we’re all seeking hope and empowerment in the face of uncertainty and stress. Whether you’ve personally battled COVID, faced secondary health issues, or lost a loved one, our heartfelt sympathies are with you. But amidst these challenges, there’s room for hope and proactive measures to enhance our well-being.
Understanding the Science
Science reveals that the journey to a healthier, stress-resilient you can be divided into distinct phases, as discussed in a 2020 report from the Integrative Medicine Clinician’s Journal:
- Prevention: Focuses on optimizing immune surveillance, and reducing baseline inflammation.
- Infection: Shifts towards immune activity against the infection.
- Escalating Infection: Emphasizes an anti-inflammatory approach.
- Recovery: Concentrates on resolving inflammation and inhibiting tissue damage.
Dr. Yanuck and colleagues provide insights into specific nutrients and lifestyle habits that can support the body during these phases.
Nutritional Support for Your Journey
Here’s a comprehensive list of nutritional supplements tailored to each phase:
- Foundation:
- Vitamin D 5000 IU
- Vitamin A 5000 IU / Cod liver oil 15ml daily
- Vitamin C 1000 mg (x2 for prevention)
- Zinc 20 mg (x2 for prevention)
- Quercetin 250 mg (x2 for prevention)
- Melatonin 1-3 mg
- Omega-3 1000 mg (x2 for prevention)
- Probiotics (alternate days for prevention, daily for infection, escalating inflammation, and recovery)
- Colostrum 1Tsp twice daily.
- Antioxidant Support:
- N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) 500 mg (x2 for infection, x4 for escalating inflammation)
- Support for Natural Killer (NK) Cells:
- Saccharomyces cerevisiae
- Echinacea 500 mg (for infection)
- Saccharomyces cerevisiae (for infection)
- Anti-Inflammatory Support:
- Black Cumin mg based on weight (for escalating inflammation)
- Bromelain 600-2400 mg (for escalating inflammation)
- Curcumin 1000 mg (x4 for recovery)
- Bromelain 600-2400 mg (for recovery)
Additional Guidelines
- During the infection phase, it’s advisable to use a pulse oximeter to monitor oxygen levels, ensuring it remains above 94% saturation. If necessary, consult your doctor regarding oral cortisone medication and further blood tests.
Nutritional Support for Children
- 2-4 years:
- Vitamin D 400 IU
- Vitamin C 250 mg
- Zinc 5-20 mg
- Omega-3 500 mg
- Probiotic
- Multi-nutrient supplement
- 4-12 years:
- Vitamin D 600 IU
- Vitamin C 500-1000 mg
- Zinc 10-20 mg
- Omega-3 1000-2000 mg
- Probiotic
- Multi-nutrient supplement
Fueling Your Body with Nutrients
You can also obtain key nutrients from food sources:
- Vitamin A: Liver, yellow-orange vegetables
- Vitamin B’s: Whole grains
- Vitamin C: Citrus fruits, red peppers, kiwifruit, Brussels sprouts
- Vitamin D: Mushrooms, fish, cod liver oil, egg yolks, green leafy vegetables
- Zinc: Pumpkin seeds, nuts, and seeds, whole grains
- Omega-3: Oily fish and flaxseeds
- Curcumin: Turmeric
Incorporating Lifestyle Habits
Embrace lifestyle habits to further bolster your health:
- Prioritize healthy sleep patterns to reduce inflammation and bolster your immune response.
- Manage stress by considering supplements like magnesium, vitamin B complex, and Ashwagandha, which support adrenal health.
- Control blood sugar with low glycemic load meals and snacks, featuring protein to reduce inflammation.
- Favor whole, plant-based foods while minimizing processed and high-sugar snacks.
By following this holistic approach, you’re not just managing stress and boosting immunity; you’re taking a proactive step towards a healthier and more empowered you. Embrace the path to well-being, and let hope light your way forward.
Sources:
- Marik, Paul. (2020) EVMS Covid -19 management protocol. EVMS. Available online at https://www.evms.edu/media/evms_public/departments/internal_medicine/EVMS_Critical_Care_COVID-19_Protocol.pdf. https://covid19criticalcare.com
- Yanuck, S.F., Pizzorno, J., Messier, H., Fitzgerald, K.N. (2020). Evidence Supporting a Phased Immunophysiological Approach to COVID-19 From Prevention Through Recovery. Integrative Medicine Clinician’s Journal. Vol. 19 (1), 8. Retrieved from http://imjournal.com/oa/evidence_supporting-a_phased_immunophysiological_approach_to_covid 19_from_prevention_through_recovery/
- Zang et al.,(2021). Pilot trial of high-dose vitamin C in critically ill COVID-19 patients. Annuals of intensive care. Available online at: https://annalsofintensivecare.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s13613-020- 00792-3
- Murray., M. (2020). Quercetin nature’s magic bullet. Available online at: (https://doctormurray.com/isquercetin- natures-magic-bullet-against-covid-19/
DISCLAIMER
This advice is for information purposes only and should not be viewed as a medical consultation. Before starting any of the supplements mentioned in this protocol, please have a thorough discussion with your doctor taking your child’s age, body weight, and potential pre-existing conditions into account. Nothing mentioned in this article is intended to treat or cure. Always check with your healthcare practitioner before starting anything new, especially if have the risk factors associated with COVID-19.