Despite Covid-19 being seemingly less prevalent in South Africa and restrictions being eased, we should not let our guard down as the country is in its peak flu season.
According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), South Africa started its flu season in April and it will end this month.
Reserch with the NICD indicates that influenza A (H3N2), influenza A (H1N1) pdm09 and influenza B are seasonal influenza virus strains that are common in human populations.
They note that influenza A (H1N1) pdm09, which is sometimes incorrectly referred to as “swine flu”, has been one of the circulating seasonal influenza strains following its emergence in 2009.
“The term “swine flu” should not be used as it causes unnecessary panic. The clinical course of infection with this influenza strain and clinical management is similar to that of other influenza strains,” advises the NICD.
In an interview with POST, Dr Tamlyn Govender, an Ayurvedic specialist, said it was important to still be wary as many infections are spread easily among adults and children - particularly with schools back since the start of the new term.
Govender is based in Pretoria and is registered with the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa to practice Ayurveda in the country.
She said with many Covid-19 restrictions, particularly masks being lifted, ideally, we should still practice all the health regulations such as regular sanitisation, proper ventilation, and good hygiene to safeguard ourselves and our loved ones.
“Also, when presenting with any common symptoms such as fever, sore throat, cough, etc, it is best to stay home and self-isolate. It is in everyone’s best interest to be vigilant and prevent the further spread of infection given the fact that there are still new variants that we do not yet understand.”
Govender said common issues around this time of year, especially among school going children, include colds, flu, recurring tummy infections, abdominal pain, allergies, asthma, poor appetite, constipation, diarrhoea and ear ache.
“This usually occurs because some children nowadays lack natural immunity. One way to boost a child’s immunity is to naturally maintain their appetite. It is important for kids to have healthy nutritious and balanced meals. Fast foods and frozen meals are devoid of proper nutrition. Including foods such as Jersey cow milk (boiled), freshly cooked meals, and organic meats, fruit, and vegetables are the best sources of building your child’s natural immune response.
“Avoiding food combinations such as fruit and milk, meat, and dairy, milk, and salty foods as well as fruit and yoghurt are unsuitable for the body because these foods do not digest well when combined. These combinations are some of the major causes of disease. Another reason that these irritations occur is due to the lack of sunlight and fresh air,” she said.
Govender said focusing on a naturally balanced diet, with foods that are fresh, organically grown, seasonal and local was an advantage for your child’s immunity.
“Ayurveda also recommends including foods such as honey, milk, and ghee, in your child’s diet. Legumes and pulses are also beneficial and provide a rich source of protein and calcium. It is always best to have meals with warm digestive spices such as ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, etc. It is also advised to have home-cooked meals whenever possible and avoid leftovers or canned foods,” she said.
She shared some tips:
* Suvarna prashan is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that has been used to increase immunity in children. It also helps with general, physical and mental health, improves concentration and memory, and improves digestion. It is usually advised for children up to 16 years of age.
* In a clinical trial, the use of Septilin (Himalaya), which helps in elevating the body's resistance to infectionm has proven useful in the management of upper respiratory tract infections in children
* Chyvanprash (an Ayurvedic health supplement, which is made up of a super-concentrated blend of nutrient-rich herbs and minerals) has been found to be effective as an immunity booster, vitaliser and preventer of day-to-day infections and allergies such as common cold and coughs. A clinical study concluded that regular consumption of Chyvanprash for a period of three to six months helps to improve immunity, energy levels, physical fitness, strength, stamina, and quality of life of children as assessed by various parameters.
* Nutritionally dense foods that are rich in Vitamin C, D, and minerals such as copper and zinc would be beneficial as they transition back to school. These nutrients will help support their immune systems. Include foods such as liver, dark chocolate, fresh salmon, fresh sardine, and nuts.
Govender said now was the time to focus on healthier lunch boxes.
She shared tips on foods that can be included to help boost immunities:
* Amla is a rich source of Vitamin C. It also prevents and cures respiratory problems such as cough, asthma, bronchitis, and colds. If you are unable to get Amla juice, the raw fruit will also be beneficial.
* Pack a thermos with baked vegetables cooked with ghee or olive oil and digestive spices. This can be an easy and quick way to get full nutrients in a meal.
* Sandwiches with fresh vegetables and/or organic meat without sauces that have preservatives.
* Organic meat with or without stir-fry vegetables with rice cooked in ghee, olive oil, or butter
* Fresh home made bread with grass-fed butter or unsalted butter
* Brazil nuts are a rich antioxidant
* Dark chocolate contains both zinc and copper which is good for gastrointestinal health
* Berries are rich sources of Vitamin C and antioxidants
* Include Tulsi ginger tea as it reduces inflammation, improves overall immunity and digestion.
* Include leafy greens, pomegranate, citrus fruits, dry fruits, seeds, and nuts for added nutrition.
Govender said there were other basic tips that families could incorporated into their daily routines to help boost immunities:
* Setting a healthy routine for your child will foster good health and trust. It will also help balance their naturally active nervous systems.
* Encourage them to play in the sun and be more active at school as it will improve their health
* Avoid processed meats as much as possible.
* Understanding your child’s natural body constitution from an Ayurvedic perspective will help you tap into their natural health needs. For example, a child who is naturally inclined to develop respiratory problems due to increased mucous should avoid cold foods, cheese, sweets, etc. One way to loosen the mucous and manage the condition is to sip on warm ginger tea, practice steaming regularly with a few drops of Vicks or Eucalyptus oil in some hot water, and have light, warm nourishing meals such as soups.
* Always consult your doctor before trying any natural remedies. For more information on Ayurvedic lifestyles, visit www.ayuhealthandwellness.com and Instagram