• Influenza, commonly referred to as the flu, is a severe and sometimes life-threatening disease.
• On average, 1 out of 5 Americans suffers from influenza each year.
• Influenza and its related complications cause an average of 36,000 deaths and approximately 226,000 hospitalizations in the US each year.
• Combined with pneumonia, influenza is the nation’s eighth leading cause of death in the US.

The World Chiropractic Alliance (WCA) is recommending that people of all ages add chiropractic to their strategy for warding off and fighting the flu and its effects this season.

Spinal adjustments can have a positive effect on immune function, the WCA asserts, citing a growing number of researchers who are exploring the common denominators in disease processes, and the role of the nervous, immune, and hormonal systems in development of immune related illnesses.

Chiropractic corrects spinal abnormalities called vertebral subluxations that result in interference of the nervous system by placing pressure on nerves. Since the nervous system controls all functions of the body -- including the immune system -- chiropractic care can have a positive effect on immune function.

Since its inception, chiropractic has asserted that viruses and microbes don't threaten us all equally and that a healthy immune system easily repels most invaders. The immune system protects us from the flu, as well as any other infectious disease, and strives to get us well again when we do fall ill. Our immune system, like every other system in the body, is coordinated and controlled by the nervous system.

Chiropractors are also aware of the importance of positive health life style practices (rest, drinking ample quantities of water, diet, exercise, proper food choices, use of high potency multivitamins and minerals, and stress reduction approaches) that can also positively influence the nervous system and immune response.

Chiropractors helping patients battle the flu is not a new occurrence either. During the 1917-18 influenza epidemic, which brought death and fear to many Americans, it has been estimated that 20 million people died throughout the world, including about 500,000 Americans. It was chiropractic’s success in caring for flu victims that led to the profession’s licensure in many states.

How can you protect your family from the flu? Build your immune system! Get adjusted! Studies show that being adjusted twice a week can increase your immune system function by up to 400%. Limit the amount of sugar in your diet! Sugar depresses the immune system. Foods to avoid would be the added sugar to your coffee, soda, sweetened drinks, candy, alcohol and white flour products. Drink more water! Wash your hands frequently.


Sources:

http://www.facesofinfluenza.org/en/influenza-symptoms/
http://www.worldchiropracticalliance.org/media/fluseason.htm