As swine flu concerns continue, plant-based nutrients may boost immune system.

The drug manufacturer of a swine flu vaccine in Canada has requested a recall of 170,000 doses following an unusually high number of allergic reactions in humans. Officials in the Canadian provinces of Quebec and Manitoba are also investigating three deaths that occurred within days of receiving the vaccine. In one family, a 38-year-old mother and her daughter both received the swine flu vaccine, after which the mother passed away within days, and the daughter was hospitalized with elevated fever and swollen, painful legs. Meanwhile, deaths from the zoonotic, animal-borne swine flu include 9 deaths in Egypt, 555 in India, and 112 in Turkey. Also perished were 4 people from various countries who had been starting the annual hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.

Although swine flu cases, including the fatal ones, are too many to count, a tally kept by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control has totalled 7,632 deaths based on submitted government reports. Many people are justifiably concerned over the health risk as well as the inhumane manufacturing practices involved in the vaccine.

According to medical experts including Dr. Stephen Lawson, Administrative Director of the US-based Linus Pauling Institute, micronutrients can help prevent and overcome illnesses such as swine flu. As Dr. Lawson stated in a phone interview: Dr. Stephen Lawson – Administrative Director, Linus Pauling Institute, USA (M): There are many micronutrients in our diet that help the immune system, and of course being healthy in general is a boost as well, so a good diet and exercise are very important for immune function. There are number of vitamins that come from plants that are very important in good functioning of the immune system, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin D, and also the mineral zinc, are all very important in immune function.

Foods that are rich in immunity-boosting vitamins include fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, and seeds. In addition, some essential protective substances such as phytochemicals are found only in plant-based foods.

We send our earnest condolences and prayers to the loved ones of those who perished or are suffering due to the swine flu and its related effects. Our appreciation, Dr. Lawson, for confirming the benefits of a healthy plant-based diet. May we all make use of the protective attributes of the nutrient-abundant vegan fare, for the lasting vitality of all.

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