by the Functional/Integrative Medicine Staff of Invision Health

Despite the constant flow of misinformation, there is no miracle cure, food, or supplement that can cure or prevent COVID-19 or other diseases. In fact, some suggestions being touted are actually dangerous, including colloidal silver, miracle mineral solution, and high doses of vitamins.

The very best way to prevent the spread of germs, not just during a pandemic, but every day of the year, is to wash our hands thoroughly. This means a full 20 seconds with warm water, including under the fingernails. Healthy habits are especially vital for those with weakened immune systems, as is practicing social-distancing, and following the recommendations of local, national, and global health leaders, who are continually updating us with information.

It is also important to follow good health habits and practices including getting enough sleep, exercising (even when you can’t get to a gym), eating a healthy diet, and finding ways to reduce your stress.

Meanwhile, our top pick for a natural antiviral is medicinal mushrooms (a blend of Reishi, Maitake, and Shitake), which is available in supplement form. Other good choices are black elderberry, which is readily available as an extract, syrup, or capsule, and liquid aloe, which should be mixed with water or juice. Both Vitamin C and Vitamin D are also preventative and should be part of everyone’s overall wellness regimen, for strengthening daily immunity. When purchasing supplements, make sure that they are GMP (good manufacturing practices) certified, batch tested, and that the quality of the test results are published.

For more information on integrative medicine practices at Invision Health, visit www.invisionhealth.com or call 716-631-3555.