I am writing this blog on behalf on an important group, Supermoms Against Superbugs, as they approach their Superbugs Advocacy Day – April 16 – to bring awareness to the overuse of antibiotics.  Below is a quote from them…

“Doctors routinely warn patients that antibiotics should be used only to treat bacterial infections, at the proper dosage, and for the full course of treatment because failure to follow these rules increases the likelihood that some of the bacteria will survive and mutate to become drug resistant. Yet, 80 percent of all antibiotics sold in the U.S. go to pigs, cows, chickens and other food animals.”

Bacteria and viruses are smart. They want to live and will do anything to adapt to all situations to survive. When antibiotics are over used, germs will quickly change (super germs) in order to not be destroyed. On the flip side, the human body is designed to fight off bugs and works hard to do so.

With the decades of overuse of antibiotic administration to our industrial animals has greatly contributed to the creation of the superbugs; which has led these antibiotics to be useless in curing everyday illness.

What can we do in our daily life to prevent these superbugs/germs from developing and us contracting them?

Side note: most of these drugs are not administered to treat illness; they are administered to help the animals grow faster and compensate for unsanitary and overcrowded farm conditions

1. Food Choices

Eat farmed raised animals (this includes all dairy) that are free range and not injected with antibiotics or hormones.

The dilemma? It costs too much.

The solution? Eat less meat and dairy products. Begin eating whole ( non-processed food) like fruits, vegetables, beans, rice, organic tofu.

2. Prevention Choices

Avoid antibacterial products…

Antibacterial hand soaps, wipes, sprays, and lotions contain chemicals - triclosan  - that kill bacteria and even more bacteria than by using soap and water. Not only do these kill bacteria that can lead to superbugs (by promoting growth of stronger bacteria) but they also may disrupt hormones, interfere muscle function.

The solution? Use non-chemical hand wipes and use soap and water as much as possible.

Drink water…

Quenching thirst with fluids is important in keeping the body hydrated and flushing toxins.

The dilemma? Water doesn't taste good.

The solution? Drink iced herbal tea or try infuse water with some citrus fruit like oranges and lemons.

Do hydrotherapy…

Hydrotherapy – hot and cold application - will increase circulation; allowing your white blood cells to get to where they need to be optimally.

The dilemma? I don’t have time.

The solution? After a hot shower, rinse off with a blast of cold water. For the kids, try “magic socks” Click here to learn more.

Take a time out…

Stress will depress and suppress (weaken) the immune system, which in turn may lead to a possible cold.

The dilemma? Stress is everywhere in my life.

The solution? The key is to learn how to react positively with stress. Take a few moments everyday and take a few deep breaths, a warm bath or a stroll around your neighborhood. Find what makes you feel good.

3. Supplement Choices

Cod Liver Oil

Strengthens the immune system – less susceptibility to illnesses due in part to the vitamin A and D that is found in the oil.

The dilemma? I am worried about the mercury.

The solution? Nordic Naturals is a company that conducts third party testing of their oils, which results in high quality and very safe oils.

Probiotics

The digestive system houses 75% of the immune system. There are good and bad bacteria in the gut; the good bacteria keep the bad bacteria in in check. Stress, allergies, poor eating habits and antibiotic use may decrease the good bacteria levels so keeping the balance in check is vital.

The dilemma? The kids won’t take a pill or capsule.

The solution? Most good probiotics will come in a powder form. With a powder, you can easily add to smoothies and applesauce.

Botanicals

Elderberry – Sambucus spp: It has long been used to treat the early stages of coughs, colds and flu; it is fantastic for a feverish child. Mix a little elderberry syrup in water and sip it throughout a sick day.

Echinancea – Echinacea spp: This is a staple in most immune herbal medicine combinations. The root contains most of the medicinal parts - it is antimicrobial: anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory.

Be well,

dr. heather

This blog is a part of MomsRising’s Supermoms Against Superbugs Blog Carnival! Please check out other great posts from experts, parents and activists on the front lines in the fight to keep our food healthy and safe.