Coronavirus (COVID-19)
With the coronavirus (COVID-19) world wide epidemic dominating the news, everyone is wondering what can be done to lessen the risk. As has been reported the greater risk, as is the case with the common “flu”, is for the elderly or those with medical conditions that depress a person’s immune status and makes them less able to fight off the virus and its effects. Enhancing the health of your immune system may make the difference between contracting a mild illness which quickly passes, versus having a more serious medical condition develop.
Integrative Medicine’s ideas for enhancing your immune health and making you less susceptible to illness in general, and making it through a viral illness with recovery to full health, include these measures.
1. Vitamin C– the beneficial effects of this vitamin have been well established for decades. Taking it in an oral supplement from 500mg- up to as much as 3,000 mg per day can be very beneficial. The problem that occurs with oral ingestion of vitamin C is stomach upset which occurs at higher doses. The answer to this problem is the Intravenous Vitamin C treatment given in a doctor’s office. These IVs contain much higher doses than can be taken orally because the vitamin C goes straight into the bloodstream avoiding the side effects that occur with oral ingestion. With IV Vitamin C the dosage utilized can start at 30 grams (30,000 mg) and go all the way up to 100 grams (100,000 mg). Along with Vitamin C, the amino acid complex called Glutathione is also used IV at the same time to further the anti viral and immune enhancement results.
2. Peptides are available from compounding pharmacies with a doctor’s prescription. Peptides are composed of amino acids which when taken therapeutically, act as messengers which promote healthier and stronger immune system function by optimizing the maturation and better functioning of the body’s T and B cells which are the cornerstone of the body’s ability to fight viruses and other external invaders of the body. Some peptides are naturally occurring in the body, as are the thymosin peptides made in the Thymus gland. Proven by research , FDA approved thymus originating peptides are in use by oncologists in the fight against the immune suppressing effects of a malignant condition.
3. Herbs. Research has shown that many of nature’s plants available as extracts in supplement form, have actions to strengthen a person’s immune response. Among those most well regarded would be elderberry, astragalus root, shitake and maitake mushroom, arabinogalactan, garlic, and olive leaf extract. Also, colloidal silver and homeopathic remedies in single or combination form have enjoyed a long history of helping those looking for immune support.
Pay attention to these common sense measures to reduce your chance of contracting the coronavirus (COVID-19) — 1. Wash your hands frequently, especially after you blow your nose, cough or sneeze. 2. Do not touch your eyes, mouth or nose with unwashed hands. 3.Avoid close contact with people who are ill. 4. clean and disinfect objects and surfaces with disinfectant wipes.
Dr Sobo is the Medical Director of Optimal Health Medical, LLC in Stamford , CT For more information see www.drsobo.com or call 203-348-8805