FOR the past several months, the country has been reeling from the chikungunya virus (CHIKV) and its debilitating effects. The far-reaching effects have left the Ministry of Health and others in the  medical profession somewhat stunned, as people who once had the virus are now suffering from a relapse  which in most cases is worse than the first. From Morant Point to Negril, individuals stacked up on pain relievers, not to mention the now popular papaya leaf juice and ‘bissy’ which regained popularity overnight.AntibioticsDietary causes of immune deficiencyOrgans and glands build immunityRest and exerciseNo quick fix

This article seeks to place the issue in context in an effort to help those who have suffered and are still suffering, recognising that it is CHIKV today, but it could be another virus tomorrow.

CHIKV is a virus, and all viruses thrive on any living thing that is ailing or dying. We get sick when the physical body is overly acidic, which means that the body’s pH is at a level where it can hardly defend itself. Things that are acidic, such as oils which we get from different types of proteins like nuts, seeds, chicken as well as beef, contribute to this state or condition. Carbohydrates also convert to fat, which is stored in organs such as the liver, kidneys and the skin, which traps waste material creating a weakness in the entire organism and ultimately lowering one’s immunity.

Persons who suffered and are still suffering from the virus resorted to a plethora of antibiotics. Antibiotic is, as the name suggests, “anti-life”. Antibiotics are widely accepted either by way of medication when sick, or given to animals which in turn are frequently consumed. Chickens, for example, have been known to have high levels of bacteria and viruses and as a result, they are given a significant amount of antibiotics to prevent and control these viruses and bacteria. Pigs as well as cows and other lifestock are also pumped up with extra antibiotics. Ingesting tablets when we are sick and consuming these animal foods for a prolonged period will eventually undermine and weaken our immune system. Antibiotics are widely used by the medical professionals. In fact, doctors are being warned about the indiscriminate use of antibiotics, because of its negative impact on the body.   

Food can be categorised as acid-producing and alkaline-producing. Acid-producing foods include more simple sugars, protein and fat, dairy products, foods containing less fibre as well as those with more water-soluble vitamins. The foods which are more beneficial to the body, more alkaline-producing, are complex sugars, less protein and fat. A daily diet of rich animal meat, dairy food, sugar, fruits, refined products, oily or greasy foods, together with soft drinks and other alcoholic beverages produce a more acidic condition within the body. On the contrary, consuming whole refined grains, cooked vegetables, beans, sea vegetables, and other natural foods seasoned with sea salt-based condiments accompanied by non-stimulant beverages tend to produce a more alkaline condition in the body. People get sick when the body is overly acidic.

Chronic consumption of acid-producing foods will result in physical disorders such as a receptivity toward infectious viruses and bacteria, intestinal weakness, liver infection, lymphatic disorder, reduced respiratory function, pancreatic disorders, weakness of bones, skin disorders, reproductive organ disorder, nervous sensitivity, and mental indecision. Immune deficiency develops over a prolonged period and is due in part to the modern diet. However, dietary influence is not limited to childhood and adulthood. In some cases weakened natural immunity begins to develop during pregnancy. During the embryonic stage, energy and nutrients which support the formation of the body and associated functions are supplied through the placenta and the embryonic cord. If the mother’s eating habits consist largely of acid-producing foods, a baby developing in the mother’s womb may be born with a tendency toward natural immune deficiency.  

Organs involved with immunity start with the stomach. When food is not properly chewed, it creates an environment in the stomach which undermines the function of the organ. The stomach, which controls the entire digestive system, works directly with the spleen and pancreas. Both organs along with the adrenal glands control such glands as the pineal and pituitary glands, which are our control tower – that’s our endocrine system. This system is a part of our neurological (nervous) system, which controls all other organs and glands of the body. Other key organs involved include those connected with the respiratory and circulatory systems. Oxygen is very important and mucus-forming foods such as milk, butter, cheese, flour, and soy milk will undermine the optimal function of the lung, hence lowering immunity. Oxygen is also responsible for keeping all the vessels clean and healthy. The lack thereof will lead to the accumulation of plaque on the walls of the vessels as well as create tissue damage within the vessels, which attacks the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems.

The colon is another vital organ as it feeds the entire body. Respiration is important as the colon works best with the lungs. However, when the colon is compromised it affects its related partner, the small intestine. Frequent or prolonged constipation is a key factor in lowering immunity. Lack of exercise also contributes to infrequent bowel movement. Diarrhoea will also interfere with the homeostasis (balance) resulting in the loss of electrolytes (minerals) and trace minerals. Exercise is important because of its influence on the circulatory system which transports nourishment to the cells, as well as the removal of waste material.

In building natural immunity, we need minerals and trace elements. All living things have a degree of minerals. Our fruits, vegetables, both land and sea, contain a certain amount to varying degrees. The highest source of minerals is found in sea vegetables such as seaweed/algae, namely hijiki, kombu (kelp), wakame, arame, and nori. These are mainly used as brain food. Another very important one is hemp (CBD) products, specifically hemp oil, which is high in CBD. CBD has among other things, strong antioxidant properties which reverse cell damage. Vitamins A, C and D are also important. Herbs which enhance immunity include echanecia, bancha, green tea.

Adequate rest assists in elevating the function of the nervous system. During rest the body repairs, builds and seeks balance. Hence, sleep is very important to build and strengthen the nervous system which promotes better health. Adequate rest does not mean going to bed and falling asleep, as the individual can be overstressed, go to bed, but never achieve restful sleep. In order to achieve adequate rest, one must engage in some form of physical exercise prior to going to bed. These include stretching and deep breathing, not rigorous exercise, but calming routines. The distinction must be made that morning exercises should be stimulating while those in the evening should be calming, more sedative.

Any discussion on immunity must also include the environment, both the external and internal. An untidy space, pollution, noise, and unsanitary conditions, all contribute. Proper hygiene, internal and external, is also important.

While over-the-counter medication provides temporary relief, recovering from CHIKV is long term. People undergoing physiotherapy sessions for the joint pains, though helpful, could be wasting their money because the disease is blood-related and relying on manipulative therapy, which is temporary, only assists with circulation. However, a simple exercise which can suffice is walking at least once or twice daily, which helps to remove the virus from the system.   

Education is essential in this current crisis. If we are to continue living in this polluted environment, we must have a combined approach for the improved health of this great nation Jamaica, and by extension, the Caribbean. After all, its CHIKV today but it could be a more devastating virus tomorrow.