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Vaccine Alternatives
Vaccination is an issue that has caused a lot of debate and controversy in modern society. You are told vaccines will solve most childhood ills, and that the diseases they prevent are dreadful killers. And you're also told that vaccines can themselves be dangerous and cause many complications.
Regardless of what you're told it's up to you to research and decide how to vaccinate your baby. You should request information from your child's doctor and from your government's health organization. And you should also review other viewpoints - preferably objective ones.
Vaccine Alternatives: How to Prevent and Treat Illness Using Natural Remedies
, by Ervin Davis, MD is a great book providing objective, factual information. The author is a doctor and clearly addresses the most common vaccines today. He also addresses each disease vaccines are used to combat.
If you are planning to delay vaccination, selectively vaccinate, or not vaccinate at all, this book is invaluable. The section covering each disease also clearly covers treatments (including when to get outside help) and remedies for each disease. He covers common childhood illnesses and those illnesses you may encounter while traveling.
Dr. Davis begins the book by giving you a good idea as to just why you should evaluate vaccination for your baby (as well as your entire family). This is a great section to start understanding the hows, whys, and why nots, of routine immunization.
You'll also really appreciate the next sections, which cover building up immunity and overall good health. Dr. Davis firmly believes breastfeeding is a foundation for health. He emphasizes the importance of eating a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, an eating habit that will immensely benefit your child.
There is an emphasis on a more plant-based diet and not much highlighting of the benefits of some animal foods (such as the antimicrobial effects of some animal fats like butter, and the big health and energy giving properties of organic organ meats) - one thing I would have enjoyed seeing more of. But on the whole the information about the importance of produce and detailed information on nutrients was good.
The emphasis on the importance of water to cleanse the body is very thorough. There is coverage on the importance of drinking water, and of using water to keep clean and hygienic. Dr. Davis also has a detailed appendix on using hydrotherapy during disease - a section you will find invaluable.
There is a section dealing with spiritual health in the book. You may find this section refreshing and vital to your health - it has certainly been proven to contribute to it. If such a section makes you feel uncomfortable, simply skip it. The rest of the book is too good to miss.
Like I said above, the book delves into an exploration of each immunization and disease. These sections of the book are excellent - clear, objective, and informative. If you have been searching for good information on how to treat vaccine-combat able illnesses Vaccine Alternatives is a good place to start.
You'll also be pleased that Dr. Davis has included a thorough introduction to using natural remedies. He's also included appendices on creating a first aid kit (and travel kit), and given helpful notes to parents, travelers, and missionaries considering vaccines. A brief appendix deals with issues pertaining to vaccine exemptions.
Overall the book is concise and thorough at the same time. It gives a great introduction to the hows and whys of critically considering vaccines in any situation - with a baby or child, or as an international traveler, missionary or aid worker. Vaccine Alternatives is an invaluable book to have in your home health library.