COVID 19 has brought into focus the functionality of the immune system. The proponents of emphasis on boosting their immune system to reduce risk of contracting the virus doubled their efforts to supplement and live as healthy as possible.
The Advocate sat down virtually with one Corvallis Naturopathic Doctor and Licensed Acupuncturist, Tina Dreisbach. Currently, she works part time in Country Vitamins on Circle Blvd. where she assists customers in “making educated health and wellness purchases, according to their individual needs.”
What is a Naturopath?
Naturopathic Medicine is a mystery to some, so we asked Dreisbach to tell the readers about it.
“Naturopathic medicine as practiced in the state of Oregon is very similar to conventional medicine, in that NDs are able to diagnose, treat and prescribe medications as needed. NDs are not trained in major surgery, nor are we generally hired by hospitals. NDs do receive considerable training in herbal medicine, homeopathy, nutrition, hydrotherapy, and other topics which are not taught in conventional medical school.
“Naturopathic medicine also differs from other forms of medicine by recognizing six ethical principles:
- We believe in the healing power of nature.
- It is important to identify and treat the cause of disease, not merely the symptoms.
- We vow to First Do No Harm to the patient.
- Doctor as teacher is an important part of our medicine and we strive to educate all our patients.
- We treat the whole person, not just a diagnosis.
- We believe prevention of illness is the path to health.”
How do You Work with Your Immune System? “The best way to maintain a healthy immune system is to BE HEALTHY. Here are some of the things one can do:
- Get 8-9 hours of sleep every night, in 100% darkness.
- Eat fresh organic vegetables, fruits, and grass-fed meats.
- Avoid all processed sugar, flour, and processed foods in general.
- Exercise at an appropriate level for your energy; daily walks are great for this.
- Spend time OUTSIDE every day, in fresh air.
- Stay hydrated, drinking at least half your body weight in ounces of water.
- Minimize stress as much as possible.
- Consult with your healthcare practitioner for specific supplements, botanical products, etc. which may be helpful for you as an individual.”
Staying Healthy
Dreisbach spoke to the ways of minimizing the risk of contracting the flu, COVID –19, and related communicable diseases – the priority is to avoid contact with people who are sick.
Sick people are advised to keep their distance from others as a means to protect others- meaning stay at home from work/school and rest. It’s also important to practice basic hygiene such as covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. The viruses that cause many serious respiratory illnesses can be spread in fine water droplets by coughing, sneezing, laughing or singing.
It’s also important to wash your hands often with soap and water, and to avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Although it may be inconvenient and temporarily uncomfortable, wearing a mask when out in public or when in the presence of at-risk individuals helps stop the spread of these viruses.
Dreisbach added, “Those with a healthy immune system are less likely to become seriously ill if they happen to contract a virus.”
Dreisbach observes that people have generally been stocking up on the supplements which they normally use; instead of purchasing one bottle they may purchase several out of concern that supply will be limited or that they may not be able to shop in the store.
So is There a Cure?
Dreisbach, like all doctors, cannot offer a cure for COVID-19. The cure doesn’t exist. She does encourage everyone to follow good health practices in support of their overall well-being. She also reminds people to wear masks when they are in public or around someone who is sick, to wash their hands regularly, and to keep social distancing.
By Joanna Rosińska
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