Tag Archives: flu

11.01.21
by

Natural Ways to Help Boost Your Immune System – Stave off Covid, Common Colds, and the Flu

Contrary to the news and commercial sponsors who constantly run “Flu season” ads, it is not  normal to get sick on a regular basis. If you are catching colds and viruses easily it means your body is run down and your immune system could use your help.

What your immune system does

Your immune system is an internal network of proteins and cells that have the sole job of fighting off foreign invaders (antigens). Your immune system builds up defenses more and more as it comes in contact with new germs, bacteria, and viral matter. Immunoglobulins are created to fight of the antigens.

Your immune system is comprised of mucous membranes, your tonsils, the spleen, all of your lymph nodes, the thymus gland, and your bone marrow. While tonsils for years were believed to be non-necessary it is known now that having your tonsils is helpful as they act as a filter for toxins. When very ill you may even produce what are known as tonsil stones (white globs of collected bacteria that can be removed carefully with a qtip from the tonsils in the back of your throat). When broken open you can clearly smell how foul the matter collected is and see why your body is trying to get rid of it.

Your immune system does weaken as you age, but most of the deterioration doesn’t begin till about age 60 unless other factors play into your health.

In a healthy person your immune system allows you to be in the presence of germs, viruses, and bacteria and not get sick from them. It is only when your defenses are down that your body ends up becoming ill.

How to boost your immune system the natural way with no side effects

While there is much debate right now as to whether or not vaccinations are good or bad, do or do not work, and even if they are dangerous to your health and wellbeing, the fact is that these natural immunity boosters do work with no worry of side effects.

WALKING DAILY – Those who walk at least 20 minutes per day 5 days a week had 43% fewer sick days than those who only walked 1 or 2 days per week.

CHIROPRACTIC ADJUSTMENTS – Chiropractic spinal adjustments support the nervous system and as a result all organs. This in turn boosts your natural immunity. So, get adjusted regularly and preventatively.

GET ADEQUATE SLEEP – Sleep is the time your body uses to restore itself. Without enough sleep we become tired, worn out, slower in thought, and sick more easily. So, if you are burning the candle at both ends – cool it and get some rest.

sleep is vital for health kaster chiropractic fort myers, florida

EAT HEALTHY FATS – Omega-3’s, Salmon, Chia seeds, avocados, olive oil, these all boost your body’s response to pathogens and help suppress inflammation and pain.

EAT WHOLE PLANT FOODS – Vegetables, seeds, nuts, fruits, and beans all have antioxidants that help decrease inflammation and restore gut health. Fruits and vegetables also help to shorten the length of the common cold!

 

EAT PROBIOTICS (OR FERMENTED FOODS) – Sauerkraut, yogurt, pickles, and kefir are great sources. You can also take a probiotic supplement if you don’t really love these food selections.

REMOVE ADDED SUGARS from your diet as much as possible. Sugar leads to obesity and obesity is a major factor in sickness. Your body is simply having to work too hard to carry the extra weight. Keep sugar to 5% or under of your daily caloric value.

EXERCISE – moderate exercise enhances immunity. So, get out there and move. Pick an activity you enjoy and do it regularly.

HYDRATE – Dehydration can negatively affect your health. It can make you more prone to illness and disease so drink lots of pure clean water and non-carbonated herbal teas and in moderation fresh juices. Steer clear of coffee, soda, and energy drinks as well as caffeinated teas – they are all dehydrating.

hydration and spinal health chiropractic fort myers dr kaster

FRESH AIR AND SUNSHINE – Your body needs sunlight. It helps to produce Vitamin D naturally. Go spend time outside every single day no matter the weather.

SUPPLEMENTS TO BOOST IMMUNITY – Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Zinc, Elderberry, Echinacea, Garlic. This powerhouse combination can help keep your guard up and your body healthy.

These lifestyle and diet choices can majorly impact your body’s ability to fight back against potential invaders. Wishing you a healthy happy Fall!

Sincerely,

The Staff at Kaster Chiropractic and Associates of Fort Myers, Florida

www.KasterChiropractic.com 
239-332-2555

 

08.01.21
by

Flu or Cold? Try These Natural Health Boosters to Prevent and Treat

Dr Jason Kaster Fort Myers, Florida cold cough chiropractic

Dr Jason Kaster Fort Myers, Florida cold cough chiropracticNot Feeling Well? We have some natural suggestions. 

When we aren’t feeling our best, we will try anything to boost ourselves back up. But what really works and what is hype?

The fact is that for a common cold there is no medical answer. Colds are caused by viruses and though many people think running to the doctor for antibiotics is the answer, they only work for bacterial infections. By over taking antibiotics you are actually weakening your own immune system and damaging your digestive health.

Vitamin C – Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that supports your immune system. It is an antioxidant and helps increase the ability to absorb iron from food. It can be taken for a cold or to help prevent a cold. 2000 mg a day is a good level for trying to fight a cold. While it’s a water soluble vitamin, taking higher doses than can lead you to developing diarrhea, so be cautious.

Chiropractic Adjustments – If you are feeling run down, get adjusted before sickness sets in. It allows your nervous system to work at full capacity helping your entire body heal itself.

Oscillococcinum – Homeopathic Flu Relief – At the first sign of a possible cold take Oscillococciunum. This blend will stave off colds by boosting your immune system. It can be found at most grocery stores and pharmacies as well as online.

Zinc – Zinc provides support to muscle tissue and cell membranes. It is involved in repair and DNA function. It works well in conjunction with Vitamin C to help you heal.

Echinacea – Echinacea helps boost your immune system. It has the potential, according to studies, to cut the common cold duration by 58% if taken within the first day and a half of feeling cold like symptoms. Interestingly it can be used as a pain killer for dental issues if applied directly to the teeth and it can help lessen inflammation as well.

Elderberry – used to treat colds and flus it helps lower fever and boost immune system workings.

Ginseng Root – dependent on the type of ginseng you get it can be a relaxing agent (American Ginseng) or an invigorant (Asian Panax Ginseng). It is a potent antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation.

Ginger – Ginger can help quell nausea. It is also beneficial to circulation. Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative it reduced cellular distress in the body.

Vitamin D – Vitamin D helps your body process calcium and phosphorus so your bones stay strong. It can help boost your immune system and keep you healthy as well as help to fight off colds and flus.

Hot Liquids– Drinking hot liquids, even just hot water as they often do in China, works as an expectorant as well as a hydrant. It hydrates you and flushes out toxins helping you heal.

Honey – Honey (RAW) is a natural antibiotic. Taken daily can help your immune system stay strong. Local honey has also been known to help with allergies.

Garlic – Garlic is also a strong natural anti-biotic. Garlic oil works wonders on ear infections when applied directly into the ear canal and left to sit overnight.

The most effective answer that no one wants to hear is time, fluids, and plenty of rest.

We sincerely hope you feel better soon!

The office of Kaster Chiropractic

www.kasterchiropractic.com

239-332-2555

 

06.15.20
by

How to Detox From a Vaccination

hiropractor fort myers kaster vaccine

hiropractor fort myers kaster vaccineTo vaccinate or not to vaccinate… That is the question. There has been much debate. Though the idea of inoculation is very valid, as vaccines stand with all added ingredients, the evidence is mounting that it does potentially far more harm than good and should be avoided.

Both sides of this debate feel strongly.

Mandatory vaccinations violate our personal and constitutional rights. There have been measures taken by our government to try and implement mandatory vaccinations especially in schools and certain workplaces such as hospitals. This goes against all morals and ethics to try and force citizens to inject foreign substances into their bodies or the bodies of their children. Vaccines have been linked to autism and neurological damage as well as cancer and contain known toxic ingredients listed right on the insert. 

If you have been vaccinated is there a way to help yourself detoxify from it?

While not receiving it in the first place is your best bet, should you get a shot the answer is YES, you can do a vaccination detoxification with all natural ingredients.

By supplementing as suggested below if, for whatever reason, you do receive a vaccination it will help protect you significantly against the toxins and other dangerous chemicals and viral fragments in these vaccines. Additionally, these same steps also help to speed recovery from all forms of flu!

What is this magical combination?

Vitamin C – Adults take 2,000mg/day for immune support and chelation of metals used in the vaccines. *Begin taking this several days prior if possible, and 1 full week afterwards.

Chlorella – A potent cellular detoxifier and cleanser it also assists in heavy metal chelation.  5g/day.

Milk Thistle – This is a powerful liver detoxifier. 175-200mg/daily.

Oscillococcinum – is a homeopathic remedy that helps alleviate unwanted flu and flu vaccine symptoms. It provides relief for trauma caused to the body. It comes in small tubes which contain pellets. They are to be taken sublingually (under the tongue). Note: do not brush your teeth just before or after taking these, as mint can counteract its effects.

Colloidal Silver – Adults take 2 oz. per day minimum for effective immune support. If possible take several days prior and a week after receiving an injection.

That covers the actual supplementation. Here are some other helpful actions you can take.

Cold pack: Place a cold pack on the injection site as soon as you can, and keep icing for 2 days (10-20 min on every couple hours).

Sun exposure: Vitamin D3 protects against microorganism invasion and balances your immune system.

Fasting: Fasting is one of the quickest ways to flush the toxins through and out of your system. To do a proper fast, abstain from eating food, but drink as much water as you can. 24 hours minimum, and up to 3 days. You can also do a juice fast, drinking just fresh vegetable juice, but it isn’t quite as effective.

Sauna: As soon as you get vaccinated the sauna should be your next stop (if at all possible). Stay in for at least 20 minutes. Sweat released contains heavy metal and toxins.

Parsley/Celery/Cilantro: Juice and drink, as well as add to foods and eat. They all assist in detoxification at a rapid cellular level.

Your health is your number one asset. We strongly urge you to protect it!

Click here to read “The Truth About Vaccines”

http://www.amazing-glutathione.com/truth-about-vaccines.html

Chiropractor & Nutritionist in Fort Myers, FL.

Fort Myers Chiropractor, Dr. Jason B. KasterChiropractic care is a safe, alternative treatment when applied appropriately. Chiropractic treatments help in dealing with the symptoms of many conditions. Are you going to wait for your symptoms to be felt, or are you going to prevent them before they start?

Dr. Jason B. Kaster, a chiropractor, and nutritionist in Fort Myers can help you and your family achieve their optimal health.

      SCHEDULE NOW! 239-332-2555
05.04.20
by

Preparing Your Immune System for Anything That Comes Your Way

Imune-system-fort-myers-dr-kaster

Imune-system-fort-myers-dr-kasterThis pandemic has proven just how vital your immune system is to keep strong and healthy all year long.

We wanted to offer you some tips on what you can do to build it if you don’t already have a strong immune system.

Boost Your Immunity

Do Not Smoke. Smoking breaks down your immune system and makes you less healthy overall.

Limit or quit drinking. Alcohol is dehydrating and toxic to the body. Your liver has to work hard to process it and takes energy away from other repairs.


Let Go of the Stress – Stress is the number one thing that breaks down immunity. Eliminate and minimize as much as you can.

Take Care of  Yourself. Wash your hands frequently, keep them away from your face, eyes, mouth, ears, and nose

Work Out. Movement, stretching, weight barring exercise, and cardiovascular exercise are needed to keep every system in the body in working order. 

Sleep. Sleeping 7-9 hours a night is when your body repairs itself. No sleep = no repair. Eventually, you will overtax your system and it can break down.

Maintain a healthy weight. Carrying around excess weight makes every organ in the body work harder than it should have to.

Take care in the preparation of meat. This goes for seafood as well. Undercooked meats and seafood can lead to food poisoning and nothing smacks the body down like a round of food poisoning. Wash down counters and surfaces that raw items have touched.

Eat Healthy – We are what we eat. Fresh fruits, vegetables, healthy proteins, healthy fats, limiting processed foods and sugars, all contribute to health and wellness.

Visit your chiropractor regularly – getting adjusted to eliminate subluxations gives a major boost to your nervous system which controls every part of your body. Keep it working well and your health will follow!

Ready for an adjustment? We would love to see you in our office. Give us a call at 239-332-2555 to schedule in Fort Myers, Florida in the office of Dr. Jason Kaster, D.C.

01.02.20
by

Boost Your Immunity with Chiropractic

cold flu fort myers chiropractic dr kaster

2019 has been one of the worst flu years in history according to the CDC and that number is continuing into 2020. We are experiencing high numbers in cases of influenza all over the country including right here in Southwest, Florida.

The key to staying healthy is a strong boosted immune system.

With regular chiropractic adjustments combined with a healthy lifestyle you can be prepared to take on cold and flu season and remain perfectly well throughout.

It’s true that there is no cure for the common cold or for the flu. The best cure is prevention. Not getting worn down and sick in the first place is ideal. Chiropractic helps boost immunity and fight off viruses. The nervous system and the immune system are intertwined. The brainstem and spinal cord regulate all of the body’s functions while working with the immune system.

Subluxations (spinal misalignments) often cause neural dysfunction, which adds stress to the body leading to a weakened immune system.

Additional to receiving regular chiropractic adjustments incorporate the following into your daily life for best results.

Load Up On Vitamin C!

Vitamin C deficiency has been shown to increase your risk of becoming sick. Vitamin C’s best source is fresh foods – citrus fruits and dark leafy greens are the highest in Vitamin C. Supplements can help as well.

Get Rest

Your body needs rest and recuperation in order to be in top shape immunity wise. When you feel tired, it’s a message. You need to rest. Whatever you are doing can wait. Nothing is more important than your health.

Exercise

Exercise circulates the blood. This helps to kickstart your immune system which releases virus killing substances in your body helping you get well and stay well.

Visit Your Chiropractor – Getting adjusted regularly keeps you in alignment and your nervous and immune systems going strong. Come see us!

11.06.19
by

The Right Cold Medicine for High Blood Pressure

cold-medicine-heart-tampa-cardio

cold-medicine-heart-tampa-cardioThe temperatures are dropping fast. With the sudden change in weather, our bodies sometimes don’t fully adjust right away. This can put a dent in our immunity and leave us exposed to potential cold and flu viruses going around.

While there is still no cure for the common cold or the flu, millions of Americans seek relief through over the counter medicines which can help shorten the duration of the illness as well as mask symptoms and help you cope with the bugs and feel a little better temporarily allowing you to get through your days.

These medicines work very well for most people. If you happen to have problems with your heart health though you need to be aware of potential complications and side effects even over the counter remedies may provoke.

If you have been diagnosed with hypertension (High blood pressure), heart disease, or heart failure, common decongestants that contain pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine can be a danger. They are both vasoconstrictors, meaning they constrict blood vessels in the sinus and nasal passages which helps with drainage and swelling – making it easier for you to breathe. The problem is because they are taken orally the effects don’t just take place in the sinuses and nose. They can make your heart work harder than it needs to and that can spell trouble for some.

Safer Alternatives that Still Work

Nasal Decongestant Sprays – This helps minimize the cardiovascular effect because of the direct delivery system. Please use no more than twice daily and only as directed.

Neti Pot – A neti pot is a small plastic pot that holds (non-tap) water, lukewarm, mixed with salt (the salts come with the pots in small pre-measured packages). Mix and rinse one side of the nose at a time. They are great for clearing out dust, pollen, dander, air pollutants, viruses, bacteria and more from your sinus cavities and have no side effects. They are free to be used with any medications.

Hot compress – holding a heating pad or hot compress against your face not only feels good, but it also helps loosen and release sinus pain and pressure allowing the mucus to drain more easily.

Antihistamines – these may be a safe alternative. Antihistamines can help dry up nasal mucosa. Just be aware they may cause drowsiness.

Steam – Be it a wet sauna, a hot shower, or a bowl of boiled water with a towel, the fact is steam loosens up sinuses and helps them to drain. All of these are great helpers.

When choosing a product, always read the label carefully.

  1. Look at both the “active” and “inactive” ingredients. Many contain multiple active ingredients that could affect your cardiovascular health, interact with your cardiovascular medications, and cause side effects.
  2. Decongestants and antihistamines come in extended-release meaning that you take them less frequently. Always read the directions on the label and consult your pharmacist or doctor with any questions.

For more heart-healthy advice visit WWW.TAMPACARDIO.COM OR CALL US FOR AN APPOINTMENT AT  813-975-2800.

05.04.19
by

Cough Remedies for That Cough That Just Lingers

cough florida dr kaster

cough florida dr kasterThis year seems to be “Year of the Cough”. Many of us, despite the rising temperatures, have this lingering nagging cough, that simply refuses to leave. What can you do about it?

For many weeks now there have been reporting in the state of Florida of irritating cough that simply lingers. Coughing helps to clear the throat of irritants and phlegm. It can also be a symptom of allergies, bacterial infection, or a virus. There is a lot of air pollution in Florida right now and that is not helping.

If you still have a productive cough (coughing up phlegm) after more than two weeks you need to pay attention as it could be a bacterial infection. Bacterial infections may require treatment. Bacterial infections can be treated with medications as well as IV fluids in order to rehydrate. On the flip side, upper respiratory infections are viral. They have to run their course naturally.

There are several natural ways in which you can help your body fight off invaders.

Take a look at the best cough helpers.

Fluids – Be sure to drink plenty of liquids. Hydration is vital as your body works to fight off a virus or bacteria. Your condition should begin to improve. If it does not, or if it gets worse, you develop a fever, or cough up blood please seek medical help.

Honey – Mix 2 teaspoons of honey with herbal non-caffeinated tea, lemon, and warm water.  The honey is soothing while the lemon can help as a decongestant. Honey is a natural antibiotic.

Peppermint – Peppermint acts as a decongestant, a throat soother, and helps to break down and eliminate mucus. Peppermint also holds antibiotic properties.

Probiotics – Probiotics will help support your immune system function and calm sensitivities to allergens like pollen while balancing your internal flora.

Thyme – This household herb helps relieve cough and aids in healing bronchitis. It can help to relax the muscles in the throat while soothing and relieving inflammation. To make some thyme tea: add 2 teaspoons of crushed thyme to 1 cup of boiling water, allow it to steep for 10 minutes, cool a bit, and drink. You may strain it, but it will not hurt to drink the thyme itself.

Bromelain – That’s right, grab some pineapple or head to the health food store for a supplement. Bromelain can help suppress cough and loosen that mucus in your throat. (Do not take if you are already on antibiotics or blood thinners).

Chiropractic Adjustments – Surprisingly chiropractic adjustments can help you fight off a cough as well. When your body is fully in alignment your nervous system is able to fully revitalize all organs as intended. This can help your body heal more quickly and keep your immunity high so you do not catch every cold and cough that comes through.

For more great health information visit www.drkasters.com and check out the blog!

01.02.18
by

Need an New Year’s Detox? We’ve Got One For You!

cleanse

cleanseThe holidays can often leave us feeling less than in stellar shape. Bloated, sluggish, tired and overweight. It’s now 2018 and time to get back into the swing of things post-holiday.

The Eart Diet released a simple cleanse that can be done in your own home with no special pills or supplements to buy.  It can be found by clicking here.

This is a super simple juice cleanse that only takes 3 days, though you can do it for longer if you wish for even better results.

While many people will not have any detoxification symptoms, others do. It depends on your level of toxicity. It is important to take on a cleanse when you have time to rest a little and be good to yourself.

During a cleanse – you may experience:

Mood swings

Tiredness

watery eyes

Sleepiness

Stuffy nose

You may re-experience old symptoms of previous illnesses. 

That is what symptoms really are in a detox – they are a healing crisis. A brief showing of old releasing toxins which you may have experienced before. You can distinguish the difference between a detox symptom and actually being sick in that a healing crisis you may feel for an hour or so and then it fades. Sickness just sticks with you for days.

For more great health advice check out Dr. Kaster’s blog www.drkasters.com.

GET THE CLEANSE!

 

03.27.17
by

Ways to Help Treats Upper Respiratory Illness Symptoms

Spring has sprung but that doesn’t mean we’re out of the woods just yet when it comes to cold and flu season. Upper respiratory illnesses (URI) are common in the early spring, just like the fall and winter seasons. The upper respiratory system includes the mouth, nose, sinuses, larynx, throat, and trachea. Unfortunately, many of the these URIs are viral and cannot be treated by antibiotics. These infections are not usually treated with antibiotics unless there is proof of a bacterial infection.

The common cold is a URI and a viral illness. Symptoms can include: a stuffy nose, muscle aches, sneezing, a sore throat, post-nasal drip, cough, and a mild fever (under 101.5). A cold can last anywhere from 3 to 14 days. If you’re illness is lasting at least 10 days with no improvement, you should schedule an appointment for an evaluation with the doctor.  Also, if you are experiencing a high fever, shortness of breath, wheezing, confusion, chest pain, teeth-chattering chills, or rib pain, you should make an appointment to see the doctor as soon as possible. At my office, our nursing staff can triage patients quickly with the above-mentioned issues. We can test for influenza (the flu) and low oxygen levels to check for more serious illnesses beyond a cold or allergy. We can also test for strep throat in our office quickly through a swab test.

Since viral infections cannot be treated with antibiotics, there are many remedies a person can do to lessen the symptoms and duration of his or her URI. Below, I’ve shared a few things that can be used when suffering from a URI.

  1. Vitamin C – When taken at a high dosage (1000mg 3 times a day), vitamin C has been known to shorten the duration of a cold.
  2. Zinc gluconate (Coldeez brand) – Take 5 to 6 lozenges per day every two hours. The high level of zinc gluconate (13.3 mg) improves symptoms and shortens duration of illness.
  3. Antihistamines (Zyrtec, Claritin, Alavert, Loratidine, Tavist,) can help with coughs and drying secretions.
  4. Vicks menthol rub can help breathing and provide relieve at night when applied to the chest, throat, and upper lip.
  5. Nasal saline can help flush out nostrils.
  6. Ibuprofen and other anti-inflammation medication can reduce a fever, headaches, and muscle aches. If you are on blood thinners or anti-platelet therapy, use acetaminophen instead of Iburprofen or asprin. If you are allergic to NSAIDS, avoid Ibuprofen, Aleve, or aspirin.

Below,  I’ve shared are a few links to medicinal products I offer and approve  on my website to help ease URI symptoms.

Sinus Relief Products

Cold and Cough Products

Pain Relievers

Allergy Medication

If you’re experience a long-lasting cold, flu-like or strep throat symptoms, give me, Dr. Kordonowy of Internal Medicine, Lipids & Wellness of Fort Myers, and my team a call today at 239-362-3005, ext. 200 or click here to contact us to schedule an appointment today.