Brook West Chiropractic Quarterly Newsletter-January 2nd.

January 9, 2000- C Your Way Through the Flu Season
There has been a record number of people heading to clinics and hospitals this season because of the flu.  If you're feeling a touch of the flu coming on, reach for the vitamin C. The more, the merrier.

Vitamin C has been shown to help reduce the symptoms of cold and flu. Start with 2,000 milligrams (or 2 grams) per day divided into 500-milligram doses because your body may have difficulty absorbing more than that at one time. Some physicians recommend taking vitamin C when you start to feel run down or any of the symptoms related to the flu.
SOURCE: Real Age Health Systems, ©2000

January 16, 2000- Out With the Wood
There may be a hidden source of air pollution in your house this winter: your firewood.

In the winter months, when many of us keep doors and windows closed, indoor air pollution increases. Stored firewood may contribute to this. As wood dries it releases mold spores that can quickly contaminate the entire house, creating an environment unfriendly to those with allergies and respiratory illnesses.  This winter, keep only the few pieces of wood that you intend to use immediately in the house.
SOURCE: InteliHealth, ©2000

January 23, 2000- Bone Up on Your Greens
Who says salads are just for staying slim? According to a Nurses' Health Study at Harvard Medical School, women who got plenty of vitamin K from lettuce and other green, leafy vegetables were less likely to develop osteoporosis. Those who ate lettuce at least once per day had a 45% lower risk of fracturing their hips than did those who ate lettuce only once per week.

Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone growth, and may inhibit the production of chemicals in the body that cause bone loss. Even better news: a mere one-half cup of kale, spinach, or broccoli produces the same bone-strengthening effect as a cup of lettuce.
SOURCE: Nutrition News, ©2000

January 30, 2000- Cold Medications
With cold and flu season in full swing, many people take a variety of over-the-counter and prescription medications to relieve their symptoms. But taking any drug can affect a person's ability to see to drive. The effects of cold and flu medications on vision can vary from one individual to another. It is, nevertheless, important for drivers to know that both prescription and over the counter drugs (particularly antihistamines) can sometimes cause blurred vision, dry eyes (which may particularly bother those who wear contact lenses) and drowsiness. Anyone noticing changes in vision while taking a prescription drug should consult with the prescribing doctor.  Individuals with glaucoma should check with their optometrist or ophthalmologist before taking cold and flu medications.
SOURCE: InteliHealth, ©2000