We’ve all heard a lot about Covid-19, but in some ways not enough. The news doesn’t tell us what we can do now to help us minimise our symptoms if and when we get infected. Why some people experience only minor symptoms? The immune system is key here.

One of my teachers in China, Prof. Liu Lihong, is treating Covid-19 patients in one of the Wuhan hospitals, right at the front line. He is reporting patients benefit considerably from herbal and acupuncture treatments. In Europe, the famous Italian scientist Dr Marco Ruggiero has given an excellent overview of the current situation.

There is much we can do to support the immune system in a focused way right now:

1. Eliminate the main foods known to lower immunity: all wheat and all processed sugar.

2. Feed the immune system cells with short chain fatty acids in resistant starches and fibre, pro-biotic and pre-biotic as foods and supplements. Eat as many vegetables as you can!

3. China research latest is to use folate Vit B9, glutathione and herbs such as Andrographis (Chuan Xin Lian), see link below for a full list.

4. Dr Ruggiero’s years of experience points to chondroitin sulphate obtained form microbial fermentation rather than bovine sources.

5. And old time favourite: Vitamin C throughout the day, 2-3 grams or more to bowel tolerance (ie go down to lower dose if you develop diarrhoea), start with  lower dose 1000mg x3 daily and gradually increase.

As ever, this information is not in any way intended or implied to be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment or care of any disease mentioned.

Joanna Niccalā