Question:

I have a small daughter and the local GP is pressurizing me to have the MMR vaccine to protect her against measles, mumps and rubella(German measles). Given the controversy surrounding HMR and possible links to autism and Crohn's disease, I am worried about it. What is your opinion, and are there any natural ways of protecting her?

Answer:

This is a controversial and tricky matter. Vaccinations have eradicated many -life-threatening diseases all over the world. In India, where I come from, there are now only sporadic cases of the illnesses which would formerly have killed or injured millions. Although the chance of measles, mumps or rubella being fatal is remote, I still in general recommend early vaccination, to be on the safe side. I prefer single doses of each vaccine rather than the combined triple vaccination.

However, my own children are not vaccinated and neither are my child patients. The key is a healthy immune system - the body's defense against invaders. Bacteria and viruses are in the air all the time but if they detect a strong immune system, they pass by. You can, I believe, take the risk of not vaccinating a baby if but only if you get his or her immune system working at its very best from the start. This means that, from the  moment of birth, the baby is looked after with best nutrition, which contains plenty of vitamins and minerals. That of course, means fresh organic food only. so that they don't take in any pesticides or herbicides. They should not eat any processed, precooked or junk food. Additionally, they should have  fresh  vegetable and fruit juices. lf they are ill or tired, they should have plenty of rest and be fed marrowbone soup, also carrot and apple juice (see below right), body of  which are very nutritious and energizing. As well as the best possible diet the baby should be massaged. This boosts the immune system and is a form of healing (see far right). Babies should also spend plenty of time in the fresh air.

I believe that vaccinations may well trigger autoimmune diseases and allergic conditions such as Crohn's disease, asthma, eczema, hay fever and other problems. But it is really difficult to determine cause and effect. Homoeopathic vaccinations can be very powerful but I would not advise relying on them on their own without taking all the measures I have outlined above. So let me emphasise again that if a parent can't guarantee having the time, energy and resources to give their children the  continuous, intensive immune system care I've described, I believe they should have them vaccinated as babies.

Fresh Carrot And Apple Juice: For one large serving (enough for mother as well as baby): push 3 to 4 large organic carrots or 6 to 8 small ones, tops off but unpeeled, and 2 organic dessert apples, quartered and cored, through a juicer and drink immediately.

Lamb Marrow Bone Soup: Boil one or two marrowbones of organic lamb with chopped fresh ginger, a little salt and some barley for two hours. Skim the stock and use to make soup with brown rice, adding green vegetables if you wish.