A devoted grandmother of nine, Carole Feinglass of Northbrook has a two-month rule. She does not like to go longer than two months without seeing her children and grandchildren, all of whom live out of state. Consequently, Feinglass and her husband spend a lot of time on airplanes—and she has spent a lot of time battling illness. Post-travel colds and infections became routine for Feinglass, often leading to pneumonia and leaving her out of commission for months.

Feinglass suffers from bronchiectasis, a condition related to damaged airways that leaves her more susceptible to severe colds and pneumonia. She also has a weakened immune system, rendering her unable to fend off infection. Rather than rely on antibiotics for relief, Feinglass turned to NorthShore’s Integrative Medicine Program for alternatives. This decision proved life-changing.

Evidence-Based Therapies

After adopting a regimen of immune-boosting herbs, a vitamin-rich diet, yoga and proper breathing, Feinglass has maintained far better health and remained pneumonia-free for the last four years.

“I was at my wit’s end,” recalled Feinglass, who now shares her turnaround with anyone who will listen. She gives much of the credit to NorthShore Integrative Medicine Medical Director Leslie Mendoza Temple, MD. “I’m crazy about her. She’s so sweet and knowledgeable. She’s kept me on track and is on top of everything,” Feinglass said.
Dr. Mendoza Temple explained that the combination of an immune-enhancing diet, supplements and disease-fighting Chinese herbs all worked in concert to help Feinglass break the cycle of constant colds and debilitating sickness.

“Eliminating refined sugar and white flour carbohydrates like crackers and cookies are some of the most important dietary changes,” said Dr. Mendoza Temple, who holds an academic appointment at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine.

“Even adhering to an improved diet 80 percent of the time will offer tremendous benefits. Breathing exercises and stress management are also very important for immune function.”