Strengthen Your Immune System Part 1

So it’s getting to be that time of year again! People are starting to sniffle and cough, but before you decide to go out and get any type of vaccinations this fall please promise me you will do some research. I know the medical world pushes them on us like they are the best thing since sliced bread…but here is a link to a great doctor who has some great information on vaccinations.
http://drtenpenny.com/a-heretics-view-of-influenzas-role-in-health-and-disease/

Why Winter is the “Cold & Flu” Season

There are quite a few reasons why people tend to get sick more easily during the “Cold & Flu” season. Understanding these reasons can help you avoid situations where your immune system will be compromised, causing you more prone to catching some bugs.

 

• Most people spend a majority of their time indoors during the cold weather season. Enclosed environment and close proximity with others encourage the spread of germs.
• High-sugar, high-fat “comfort foods” and holiday fares can weaken the immune system – sugar, in particular, can suppress immunity.
• Stress caused by the holiday season induces the body to produce corticosteroids, which suppress the immune system.
• Most people don’t get enough sleep during the holiday season, causing an increase in cortisol level and a decrease in immunity. Cortisol also makes us crave sugar, which suppresses immunity.
• Shorter daylight hours can cause “winter blues” – low psychological states can suppress the immune system.
• Dry weather reduces the moisture level of mucous membranes in the nasal passage, which are important in preventing unwanted bacteria and viruses from entering the respiratory system.

Nutrition for Strong Immune System

The best way to use nutrition to boost your immunity is to eat a balanced diet of fresh, whole foods. Sometimes it’s challenging to do so everyday, during the season when we are so busy with work, friends and family. The following are the nutrients that you should pay attention to (supplement when necessary) in order to help you keep your immune system healthy:

 

• Vitamin A – helps maintain integrity of  the cell membrane of the digestive tract and respiratory system, preventing the entry of bacteria into the body
• Vitamin B6 – enhances T-cell function
• Vitamin B12 and folic acid – promote  proper T- and B-cell function
• Vitamin B6, folic acid and zinc –  promote rapid production of immune cells
• Vitamin C – a natural antihistamine, it helps  calm infection and control stress hormone cortisol, which weakens the      immune system
• Zinc – supports immune cell production  and proper functioning of B- and T-cells. (Note: excess zinc can suppress      the ability of macrophages to destroy bacteria. Zinc is therefore useful for viral infection, but may not be suitable for bacterial infection.)
• Antioxidants (A, C, E, zinc, selenium) –  help fight off infection

Reference:

Holford, P. The New Optimum Nutrition Bible. Crossing Press, Berkley. 2004.

 

I will be posting part two soon, but I am also going to be holding a webinar and a workshop in October with more information on Cold and Flu prevention the natural way. Check me out on facebook to get the most up to date info and specials : https://www.facebook.com/WomensBalancedBody