Tuesday 13 September 2011

Boosting Immunity

            A weakened immune system leaves the body vulnerable to virtually every type of illness and disease. An efficient immune system is the key to our physical well-being. Our bodies’ defences are so wonderfully designed that, despite the millions of potentially disease-producing organisms and substance-bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites and allergens that surround us, we survive, only occasionally falling prey to them.
Although our immune systems can recognise viral strains they have encountered and beaten off before the viruses mutate, even the smallest genetic change will often trick the immune system into thinking a brand new species, for which it has no antibodies, has landed. While a robust immune system will cope with this attack, one that’s been weakened by poor nutrition and too much stress will struggle to get you back to health.
Fatigue, lethargy, repeated infections, slow wound-healing, allergies, thrush and lots of colds and flu’s are all signs that the body’s immune system is functioning below par. A healthy adult, for example, should suffer no more than two colds a year; therefore falling prey to every passing infection is definitely a sign that you need to start supporting your immune system.
Poor nutrition is a common cause of a weakened immune response. Foods that are a good source of immune-boosting antioxidants include Kiwi fruits (with more Vitamin C than oranges) and Avocado, known as nature’s own “super-food” because of its balance of fats, carbohydrates and vitamin E. Foods that are rich in Vitamin B6 (which boosts the production of antibodies to fight infections) include Bananas, Carrots, Lentils, Tuna, Salmon, Wholegrain Flour and Sunflower seeds. You need to also increase your Zinc intake by eating more Seafood, Eggs, Turkey, Pumpkin Seeds and Sunflower Seeds.

How to boost immunity:
Garlic: one clove or two pearls taken morning and night. This is one of nature’s best natural anti-bacterial products, which can help to prevent bacterial, viral and fungal infections. It has even proved immune to antibiotics.
Astragalus: this famous Chinese herb can be used to increase energy and build resistance.
Echinacea: one of the best herbal alternatives to antibiotics, Echinacea is useful for all chronic (long-term) and acute bacterial and viral infections. (For good effect, it needs to be taken every hour or two during acute infections.) It helps in the cleansing of the blood and lymphatic system, and activates white blood cells and antibiotics simultaneously.
Ginseng: this remarkable herbal remedy is famous for its ability to boost immunity and energy and to enable the body to cope with stress. It is not to be taken during acute illness or if there’s inflammation, but it’s beneficial for many run-down, pale-faced and can’t-get-rid of type infections.
Liquorice: this can be taken during or after illness to speed recovery and as a tonic during convalescence. It enhances the immune system by stimulating the formation and the efficiency of white blood cells and antibodies. It also supports the adrenal glands, thus providing protection from the effects of stress.
Aloe Vera: a veritable storehouse of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and enzymes, this acts as both an immune-enhancer and natural antiseptic.


David Foley MNIMH, MRCHM Medical Herbalist