How cold and flu viruses

are spread

There are several

theories for why colds and flu increase in the winter. DeSilva notes that

spending more time indoors, in closer proximity with people than in warmer

months, may be partially to blame. Also, today's well-insulated homes

don't allow much fresh air circulation.

"Cold

and flu viruses are spread by droplet inhalation. If someone coughs or

sneezes, and you inhale the contaminated air, you may become infected,"

said DeSilva. He adds that you may also become infected if your hands

become contaminated, and then you put your fingers in your mouth, or touch

your nose or eyes.

Never assume

that someone who has a cold or flu is less contagious just because their

symptoms are mild, or because they have had a virus for several days.

"The body

secretes mucus to coat and protect the airways from the virus," said

Dr. DeSilva. "As long is someone has a runny nose, or a lingering

cough, they may still be able to infect other people."

A healthy immune system

is a great precaution

Dr. DeSilva

explains that even if a virus enters your system, that doesn't automatically

mean that you will get sick. A healthy immune system can kill a virus

long before it causes its first symptom. That is why it is important to

take precautions prior to exposure. His recommendations include:

Drink plenty

of water. "The more hydrated you are, the better your immune system

functions," said DeSilva.

Consider increasing

your intake of zinc and Vitamin C, both of which have been shown to positively

effect immune system function.

Add high potency

rosmarinic acid to your daily supplement regime. Studies have shown that

rosmarinic acid may help the body fight off the growth of bacteria and

viruses. "Origanox contains the highest available level of rosmarinic

acid on the market," DeSilva said. "If you do get a cold or

flu, Origanox may possibly help reduce the severity of the symptoms."

If you get

a cold or flu, get plenty of rest. Remember that your body repairs itself

while you sleep.

"See a

doctor if your fever exceeds 101 degrees, if your symptoms have lasted

longer than three to five days, or if you have some underlying medical

condition such as heart disease or asthma," said DeSilva. "Fighting

a virus can weaken your immune system, making you vulnerable to bacterial

infections that can lead to pneumonia."

Origanox is

derived from Origanum Vulgare, an oregano species that contains a high

natural concentration of rosmarinic acid. This species belongs to the

Labiatae family like rosemary, melissa and sage - plants used as medicinal

herbs for thousands of years in many countries.

Alternativa

Natural is the first company to market the powerful, natural anti-oxidant

Origanox, as a dietary supplement. The Company's 500 mg. Origanox Superior

Natural Anti-Oxidant supplement is standardized to ensure maximum effectiveness

and potency. Alternativa Natural products are both kosher and vegetarian,

and are available at local health food stores.

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