LEXINGTON, Ky., Dec. 06, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Lexington chiropractor Dr. Kevin Lynch is sharing his tips to help patients reduce the likelihood for contracting the flu during the winter months. Flu and cold season typically runs from October through March, with December, January and February being the most severe months, reports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Dr. Lynch says that taking steps now to strengthen the immune system can reduce the likelihood for contracting one of these viruses and, should patients become ill, a stronger immune system will reduce the severity and length of infection. Dr. Lynch recommends regular chiropractic adjustments and dietary changes to strengthen the immune system.
Lynch Chiropractic Center is warning patients to take steps now to protect against cold and flu season, which is already underway.
“Since the flu virus is unpredictable, it is difficult to predict what the flu season will be like this year,” said Dr. Lynch. “That said, last year was a particularly bad year and the flu vaccine was only 19% effective. Rather than relying solely on the flu vaccine, I encourage patients to follow a whole body approach to flu and cold prevention. This starts with a stronger immune system.”
According to Dr. Lynch, spinal misalignments can cause nervous system interference and make it more difficult for the immune system to do its job correctly. Regular adjustments reduce this interference and boost immune system activity, says the Lexington chiropractor.
“I follow a whole body approach to wellness care, which means that I treat underlying causes of any disturbance or disruption in the nervous system and make appropriate adjustments to optimize normal function,” said Dr. Lynch. “Rather than waiting until patients become sick with a cold or the flu, I recommend taking steps now to strengthen the immune system by eliminating nervous system dysfunction. Do so may reduce the risk for illness and the severity of any illness.”
In addition to regular adjustments, Dr. Lynch recommends patients eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables for a boost in antioxidants like beta-carotene, Vitamin C and Vitamin E. Zinc and selenium are also important for keeping the body health, says Dr. Lynch. These nutrients can be found in beans, nuts, seafood and whole grains. The chiropractor also adds raw garlic to his meals because of its natural antibacterial and antiviral effects.
“For maximum benefit, eat these foods raw or with minimal cooking,” said Dr. Lynch. “Do not wait until you are sick to add these foods to your diet. Eating several cloves of raw garlic, for example, is most beneficial at the onset of cold symptoms, so eat it consistently throughout the winter months.”
Lynch Chiropractic Center provides chiropractic care for drug-free back and neck pain relief, auto accident injury treatment, sports injury rehabilitation and stress relief. For more information, visit http://www.chiropractorlexington.com or call (859) 266-1999.