Back on May 2, we published a post titled “Swine Flu Concerns: Boost Immunity with Genetic Nutrition.” That post discussed how strengthening the immune system through proper nutrition could help people stay more healthy. As it turns out, the CDC has conducted tests that suggest people age 60 and over have increased immunity to the H1N1 virus.

According to a story by the Associated Press today, the new H1N1 virus seems to affect the young at a much higher rate than the elderly - which is in direct contrast to common seasonal flus, that have a much more profound effect on the very old.

Several theories have been presented as to why the new H1N1 seems to not affect the elderly as much. The most common is that flu viruses prior to 1957 affected patients’ immune systems in a similar way to H1N1, which could account for the apparently-increased immunity among the elderly. But scientists and doctors urge older people to “take the same precautions as everyone else.”

The bottom line of the story:

Scientists think it’s because older people have been exposed to other viruses in the past that are more similar to swine flu than more recent seasonal flus.

But the results come from complicated lab work and calculations, and it’s not yet clear how safe older people actually are from the new infection, federal officials said.

“We can’t say,” said Dr. Anne Schuchat of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. So older people are advised to take the same precautions as their children and grandchildren.

As part of these precautions, it’s always a good idea to make sure your diet has a full compliment of healthy nutrients designed to boost your immune system.

What can you do to protect yourself against the swine flu?

Here’s what the Center for Disease Control suggests:

Although the government is working on a vaccination for the current swine flu, it may take up to six months to produce and may only partially reduce the risk of contracting the virus.

Strengthen Your Immune System

Another way to stay generally healthy is by strengthening your immune system. As well as paying attention to your diet and lifestyle, you can also turn to supplements that help support a strong immune system. We recommend natural, whole food nutrient formulas that have ingredients that specifically help with stress and immune function (containing “Hardship Plants”).

“Hardship Plants” Can Boost Immunity

A recurring characteristic of several components in EpiGaia® is the ability to withstand hardship. Studies have shown that many of these ingredients can lead to stronger immune systems and guard against disease. Examples include:

• Resveratrol is produced in grape skin in response to environmental challenge.
• Oleuropein makes the olive plant robust and resistant to attack.
• Gingko Biloba is the oldest known living tree having withstood the ice age.
• Several components grow in extreme, harsh climates.
• There are more than 10 adaptogen components. Adaptogens enhance the body and mind’s capacity to adapt optimally, accurately and with endurance, to stress.