The Swine Flu Virus Symptoms

There have been no studies that have shown the Vitamin C prevents the 2009 Swine Flu (H1N1), or any other flu virus, shortens its duration or makes the illness milder.  However, what Vitamin C does do is strengthen the immune system.  Since the immune system is how the body fights off any virus, a strong system makes sense.  Vitamin C boosts the production of white blood cells, antibodies and interferon, all of which are critical to fighting Swine Flu (N1H1) and lots of other illnesses.

Vitamin C is found naturally in many foods such as oranges, lemons, limes, strawberries, and leafy greens. One of the best sources of Vitamin C is kiwi fruit.  One small kiwi fruit has twice the Vitamin C as a medium orange.  Many foods are fortified with Vitamin C, and of course it’s available as a supplement. Since the vitamin is water soluble it is not stored in the body. Any excess over what the body requires for that day is excreted.  However any substance can be toxic if too much is taken at any one time, even water. Drinking copious amounts of water can throw off the electrolyte balance of the body.

How much vitamin C is recommended?  60 mg is the recommended amount to take daily.  However the body’s requirement varies depending on age, activity level, and exposure.  for example people under stress, and smokers, require more. Many people believe that 500 mg is the optimum dosage.  An orange has 70 mg of vitamin.   It would be a challenge to consume 500 mg just through foods.

admin Swine Flu Influenza, Influenza A virus subtype H1N1, Swine influenza, Vitamin C

Think about the 2009 Swine Flu (N1H1) and it’s scary. Schools are closing, quarantines at airports, and all those face masks. There are several common sense ways you can get down the chances of coming down with Swine Flu.

1. Wash your hands. It’s one of the best and most effective ways to prevent disease. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds using warm to hot water and soap. It doesn’t have to be an antibacterial soap because Swine Flu (N1H1) is caused by a virus not a bacteria. If you’re out and about and don’t have access to soap and water use a hand sanitizer gel that is alcohol based. Use a generous dollop and rub on your hands until it evaporates.

2. Stay away from crowds. Swine Flu (N1H1) is air born within a 6 foot distance. The virus is carried on water droplets that are expelled from the nasal passages, throat and lungs through sneezing, coughing and breathing. If you aren’t where the crowds are you won’t be exposed as much.

3. Don’t touch your mouth or nose with your hands, use a tissue. Swine Flu (N1H1) is spread through the virus being introduced to the host – that’s you. If the virus is on your hand because you touched a surface that someone else did who had the virus and then touch your nose or mouth you increase the chances of getting sick yourself. Use the tissue only once and throw it away after the usage.

Use these common sense rules to decrease the chance you’ll get sick.

admin Swine Flu Health, Infectious disease, Swine influenza