Boost your Body's Defenses

The immune system is truly the power healer within. It is the most important system that one needs to stay healthy. The immune system protects us from invaders in the form of bacteria, viruses and so on. In order for the immune system to be strong, we need to supply materials to protect it!

The immune system consists of white blood cells called lymphocytes. These are found in the blood, near the intestines, in the thymus glands, bone marrow, spleen, and lymph nodes in the neck, groin, and armpits.

All lymphocytes come from specific cells created in the bone marrow. Some lymphocytes become T-cells (thymus) and others B-cells (bursa).

Most important, some T-cells leaving the bone marrow go through the thymus gland - the master gland. The other T-cells go into the blood stream with blueprints of what is the "healthy" you and which cells are the invaders.

B-cells stay in the thymus gland to develop genes which makes protein molecules (antibodies) that attack allergenic enemies (antigens). It is important for the body to make these antibodies in order to be able to attack toxins and destroy all invaders.

 

When your immune system is weakened, results may lead to health conditions

Breathing problems                                           Fluid retention

Colds, flu, infections                                          Mouth sores

Itchy or watery eyes                                         Yeast infections 

IBS - Irritable bowel syndrome                      Fatigue

Diarrhea and/or constipation                          Arthritis

Reactions to chemicals (smoke, perfume    Insomnia   

Clothing, cleaning products...)                        Anxiety & panic attacks

Food allergies

Herbal Remedies to aide the Immune system

Astragalus (strength)

Slymarin - Milk Thistle (blocks allergic reactions)

Suma - Brazilian Ginseng (boosts immune)

Nettle (reduces allergies)

Vitamins & Minerals

 Vitamins A, C, E

Selenium, Zinc, L-Glutathione

 

In order for the system to work optimally it depends on proper lifestyle dieting habits (see recipes) . Unsurprisingly, fruit and vegetables are vital in keeping the immune system fighting. In particular, fruit and vegetables rich in vitamin C are important to strengthen the immune system. Such fruits are citrus fruits, kiwi fruits, berries, peppers and sweet potatoes.
Ironically, some bacteria can actually help prevent infection. Probiotics - available as yogurt-based drinks - are packed with ‘friendly' bacteria that helps protect the colon wall and act as a barrier to invading germs. In one study published in the British Medical Journal, children who consumed a probiotic had fewer days of absence from day-care due to respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses.

To offset some of the decline in immune function that occurs as we age, it pays to include plant foods that are a good source of vitamin E. Sunflower seeds and oil are two of the very best, but you'll also get significant amounts from other seeds and nuts and avocados, and more moderate amounts from mangoes, blackberries, and tomatoes.

Now, for what not to eat; there is evidence suggesting that large quantities of sugar could be an enemy of the immune system, interfering with the ability of white blood cells to destroy bacteria.

Prolonged stress can also weaken immunity. Being sedentary is another bad idea - moderate daily exercise boosts the immune system. So get to it - Boost your Body's Defenses.