Avoid the Flu!

The FLU is present at all times in all places. It is one or more virus organisms that are continuously mutating. We are exposed to some really bad ones all the time, yet rarely feel their effects. Once in awhile a weak one will knock us down, but we usually get up again. I do not think that there is some kind of malicious super bug "out there" that is trying to get us. Therefore, I suggest common sense to avoid getting sick.

• Wash hands regularly - especially if you come in contact with other people.
• Wash bed linens weekly
• Keep the toothbrush clean - rinse daily with peroxide
• Avoid crowds
• Avoid hospitals and doctors' offices
• Clean all food (produce mostly) that may havfe been touched by another person - or sneezed on.
• Use a good probiotic once or twice daily (empty stomach, clean water)
• Drink PLENTY of water
• Get enough rest and sleep
• Take at least 2,000 mg of vitamin C daily (I like Emergen-C)
• Get sunshine and/or take 4,000 units of vitamin D3 every day
• Exercise
• Eat plenty of protein, but minimal red meat
• Avoid all processed carbohydrates (especially any carb that is WHITE)
• Eat well and avoid all "fast food"
• Don't drink any sweetened drinks (no sodas)
• Don't use artificial sweeteners

What Do I Do About Cholesterol at 210?

QUESTION: I am 59 years old, I am a teacher, 5' 04" tall and weigh about 136 pounds. I watch my diet, exercise twice a week, no smoking and very little drinking. My cholesterol level has been solid about 210 for the last year, the good and the bad cholesterols are high. My two daughters are vegetarians and I eat little meat. I do not want to cut meat completely because I have thalassemia and I have to watch the protein intake, my normal hemoglobin level is 10.5 In any event, it appears that the high cholesterol level may be genetic. What shall I do? any suggestions.

ANSWER: First, I have to point out that I have very little regard for the negative impact of cholesterol on health. I have concluded that low cholesterol is far more damaging to health than higher levels. It is very likely that elevated cholesterol is associated with disease, but it is completely unclear that it causes any problems. In my metaphorical world, using drugs to lower cholesterol is like believing that you have money in your checking account because you still have checks left in your checkbook.

Cholesterol is the substance made by our bodies from which all hormones are made. Artificially lowering cholesterol can therefore have a negative impact on any body system that depends on hormones.

There is nothing wrong with meat, per se. Over consumption is harmful;. Anyone who regularly consumes a 24 ounce steak is asking for all kinds of health troubles. Meat is an excellent source of protein. Pure vegetarians have a difficult task getting enough protein in their diet - and vegetable proptein is not always teh best (particularly bad is anything derived from soy). I eat meat - a little red, mostly chicken and fresh fish. I don't think vegetarian living is healthy.

Anyhow, regarding any advice I might offer. First, do what your medical providers are prescribing. I'd be that last person to suggest you disobey their advice. Personally, I wouldn't be overly excited about a cholesterol of 210. Not too many years ago the upper limit was set at 225. It's been creeping downward for years and now is near 199. Who really knows?

EXCITING NEW SLEEP DRUG?

Sometimes we all think we could use some help getting to sleep - and staying that way through the night. I have regularly recommended melatonin in small doses. It seems to work very well. It's inexpensive and available without a prescription. There aren't any side effects to speak of and it doesn't leave you feeling drugged the next morning.

Has modern drug science IMPROVED UPON real melatonin?
http://www.thecompounder.com/new_sleep_aid.php