As we enjoy this wonderful autumn weather it's easy to forget that the flu season is quickly approaching. Soon flu shots will be widely available. For the unsuspecting, the pressure to get one can become overwhelming and it leaves them pondering important questions such as: "Do I need a flu shot?" and "How does it actually work?"

The flu vaccine is meant to provide us with an "immunity" to the impending strain of the virus. However, with the presence of so many different strains, it is difficult for scientists to be entirely sure which one is actually going to hit this year. As a result, they simply formulate a cocktail of viruses in the hope that one of them may provide the right match.

The effects of the flu or common cold can be debilitating and can quickly run you into the ground. Pharmacies, of course, are stocked full with various flu and cold medications. However, whilst these may alleviate the symptoms temporarily, they actually play a larger role in inhibiting our natural defenses. In order to kill a virus your body must first produce mucous to trap the foreign invader. Once held, it then incites a fever to "cook" it. It's much like a fully active war zone inside your body. Although flu and cold medications may stop the fever and dry up the mucous, they do nothing to enrich the immune system or restore balance in the body.

Is there an alternative?
Chinese medicine and acupuncture have been used successfully for centuries to enhance the immune system. Based on the identification of patterns within the body, it aims to highlight any underlying weaknesses or imbalances. When parts of your body are functioning sub-optimally the supporting network breaks down. By restoring balance to your system Chinese medicine and acupuncture help the organs to work together for optimal health, priming your body's defenses against infection.

Combined with specific food choices, Chinese medicine and acupuncture effectively enhance your immune system by seeking to restore long term harmony and balance. Promoting strong vital energy, it strengthens your natural defenses and decreases the risk of contamination from the flu, common cold, and other infections diseases.

My question to you is, how good do you want to feel this winter?

Dr. Jeda Boughton practices traditional Chinese medicine at BodaHealth, 302-1245 West Broadway, Vancouver, 604-733-2632.  www.bodahealth.ca

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