As we are getting to the chillier months (at least here, in the Midwest), there is more talk about the latest influenza vaccine. I have never had a flu shot and do not plan on getting one. Some companies and organizations are demanding that employees receive a flu shot or else lose their jobs. This is unfortunate and I hope that I never have to make a decision between my job and a flu shot. Getting a flu shot does not necessarily protect you from getting the virus. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) acknowledges that there is no way to predict what strains of the flu will be circulating during flu season. Therefore, the vaccine may or may not contain the virus that is actually out there. So there is still the chance you might get the flu even if you have gotten the shot. Hmm, the risk with the shot doesn't sound much different from the risk without-in either case, a person may or may not get the flu. I don't like that. I'd rather not have this foreign substance in my system. I am not a fan of injections and medications and prefer a more natural approach to maintain a healthy immune system. This includes maintaining a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables (packed with vitamin C), exercising regularly, and taking vitamin C tablets. Yes! I am all about taking vitamin C. While I am not big on supplement use, I have been taking vitamin C for several years now, as recommended by my DAD! I take "ester C," which is a form of vitamin C that is said to be more bioavailable. This means that our bodies can more readily absorb the nutrient and therefore, we do not need to take as much to reap the benefits. I have read pros and cons of taking the "ester" form. The regular form would most likely work, too, but since I have been taking ester, I will stick with that for now. There is mixed scientific evidence regarding using vitamin C to prevent or treat the flu or the common cold. However, I can honestly say that I have not had a "real" cold since taking vitamin C regularly (daily). I am exposed to plenty of germs every day-I use public transportation, I am a student surrounded by other students 5 days a week, sitting way too closely together, who are coughing, sneezing, and not washing hands*. Despite this, though, I have not been sick. Sometimes, I feel a little tickle in my throat or a stuffed nostril, then I know it's time to double up on my vitamin C. Seriously! I will take an extra one when I feel like I could use a little extra protection and that tickle is typically gone the following day. So there you have it. I can't tell you to take the C, BUT just talking about my experience and putting it out there to give readers an alternative to the flu shot.
3 Comments
Mom
10/17/2012 03:37:58 am
Now I have even more support for continuing NOT to take a flu shot! Thank you Doll. Your Dad will be glad to know that what he says does have an impact on you...
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karen martin
10/24/2012 03:06:51 am
the worst flu of my life was the year I had a flu shot - vitamin C has been a mainstay in my health regimen ever since (my sister turned me on to ester C) - no flu and no colds - thanks for getting the good word out
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Alena
10/29/2012 12:52:26 am
I'm sorry you had to go through that! Nope, I don't trust the shot-team vitamin C for me =)
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AuthorHello there, my name is Alena and I am a Registered Dietitian! This blog is a platform through which I can share my knowledge and perspectives on a variety of nutrition-related topics. Feel free to contribute by commenting. Archives
November 2021
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