I’m Dr. Shiroko Sokitch, the owner of Heart to Heart Medical Center and author of Healing When It Seems Impossible, Seven Keys to Defy the Odds. As the leaves begin to fall and winter approaches, I want to share some valuable tips to help you boost your immune system—not just for this season, but for all year round.
Understanding the Role of Your Lungs
In Chinese medicine, the lungs are vital—they regulate the entire respiratory system and act as our body’s first line of defense against external elements like bacteria, viruses, and even the harshness of winter weather. Your lungs connect to the nose, throat, skin, and large intestine, serving as the outermost layer of energy in your body.
This time of year, it’s especially important to nurture your lungs. As the cold and dampness of winter creeps in, we must protect ourselves from these elements that can weaken our immune system. You might notice many acupuncturists, myself included, wearing scarves during the colder months. This isn’t just for style; it’s to protect our necks—where the wind can easily enter the body—keeping us healthy and less prone to illness.
Key Steps to Strengthen Your Immune System
- Minimize Stress:
Stress can significantly weaken your immune system. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, take proactive measures to protect your health. Incorporate stress-relieving practices into your routine, such as mindfulness, yoga, or meditation. - Essential Supplements:
Here’s a list of three key supplements I recommend to support your immune system:
- Vitamin D: This fat-soluble vitamin plays a crucial role in maintaining immune health. Aim for a vitamin D level of 50-60 ng/mL for optimal benefits. If you’re unsure of your levels, consider getting them tested before starting supplementation.
- Medicinal Mushrooms: I love the Host Defense line created by Paul Stamets. Their blend of 16 organic medicinal mushrooms is fantastic for immune support. If you can’t access Host Defense, look for other high-quality, organically grown medicinal mushrooms.
- NAC, Quercetin, Vitamin C, and Zinc: This powerhouse combination helps protect against viruses and can aid in recovery. During the pandemic, research showed these ingredients were beneficial for immune function, especially in preventing long COVID.
- Elevated Support During Exposures:
If you’re traveling or around someone who’s sick, it’s crucial to boost your immune defense a few days prior. I recommend a liposomal supplement with vitamins A, C, D, E, K, and elderberry. On travel days, pair it with a quercetin supplement for added protection. - Gargling for Relief:
If you feel a sore throat coming on, gargling with salt water or hydrogen peroxide can be incredibly effective. Gargle every 20 minutes, three times, at the first sign of discomfort to help push out any invading viruses. - High-Dose Vitamin D:
In acute situations, a high dose of vitamin D (up to 50,000 IU) combined with vitamin C and zinc can offer a protective boost. These nutrients work synergistically to fortify your immune defenses.
As we approach the colder months, remember that a strong immune system is your best defense against illness. If you have any questions or need personalized advice, don’t hesitate to reach out in the comments!
Wishing you all a vibrant, healthy fall and winter season!
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Dr. Shiroko Sokitch, owner of Heart to Heart Medical Center, is committed to helping people integrate holistic healing practices into their lives. For more health insights and natural remedies, check out her book, Healing When It Seems Impossible: 7 Keys to Defy the Odds.
Ask me anything!
Let me know if you have any questions that I can help you with. I’m here for you during these unpredictable times and have set up a telemedicine service to get you the help you most need. Call my office at: 707.524.9640
You can also head over to my YouTube, Instagram, or Facebook and leave a comment or message me about your questions or concerns! I love hearing from you.
Love,
Shiroko
