How to Boost your Immune System - Part II

In recent weeks we have been inundated with enquiries from people worried about how to protect themselves and their families against various assaults on their immune systems this winter.

Whilst nobody knows the extent of the threat that has been reported in the news, we'll be giving the same advice we give every winter: that PREVENTION and PROTECTION are the best approach.

In part I of this newsletter, we showed how the chance of illness is increased when external threats such as viruses, bacteria and fungi collide with a weakened immune system. We told of a study involving elderly people, which showed that they were mostly depleted in almost all key nutrients, and that when they took a nutritional supplement every day, that within one year their immune systems had rejuvenated, and days of illness reduced by 50%.

Vitamin C for Immunity - 85% improvement?

One of the most well-known and well-researched nutrients for immune system protection is vitamin C.  Over 20 controlled trials, using at least 1000mg of vitamin C a day for immune system support during an attack, have been published. To achieve maximum protection, however, much more than that is needed. One recent trial was carried out on students, who took 1000mg of vitamin C per hour, for 6 hours, and then 1000mg 3 times per day - they showed an 85% improvement compared to students in the control group.

Another study showed that at the first sign of a cold the dose of vitamin C should be increased to 6,000mg per day, in divided doses, in order to reduce duration and severity of the common cold.(1)

BioCare Vitamin C 1000mg plus antioxidants 

Other Antioxidants

Vitamin C is much more effective if used alongside a wide selection of other antioxidants. For instance, it's been shown that 200iu of vitamin E improves T-cell function by 58%.(2)   And more than 70 years ago, it was shown that children with higher carotene levels in their blood missed half as many school days due to illness.(3)  Zinc is also critical for immune health, and deficiencies have been clearly linked to susceptibility to infections and poor wound healing. Zinc lozenges may be particularly effective at stopping many throat infections.

Multivitamin and Mineral Complex

Many studies have shown that the immune system is helped by taking a multivitamin and mineral complex every day, particularly if they include sufficient amounts of selenium, zinc, vitamin C, E and beta carotene.

The Multigenics range is a selection of comprehensive formulas, made from high quality ingredients, which provide the best chance for absorption and bio-availability.

Garlic

Garlic has long been used to support immune function, and research has shown that the 'allicin' in garlic has strong anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. One clove of garlic a day is a good idea, but if this is not a sociable option for you, then try a capsule of low odour garlic. Note though, that many low- or no-odour garlic supplements in the shops have had the active ingredients removed to reduce odour.

Echinacea

This is an excellent anti-viral herb, which is best used during acute stages of infection. By taking it only when you need it, rather than as a preventative herb, it will keep its effectiveness.

Colostrum

Research has shown that once we pass puberty, our bodies gradually produce less of the immune and growth factors that help our bodies fight off disease and heal damaged body tissue.  With the loss of these vital components, we age and die.  Colostrum is the only source of these life giving components - the actual immune factors and all of our body's growth factors (hormones) in perfect combination as nature intended.

Probiotics

Bacterial balance of the digestive tract is crucial for the immune system. The digestive tract is actually the largest immune organ in the body, and signs that all is not well include excessive wind and bloating. If the immune system is not as good as you'd like, or you've taken antibiotics (even a long time ago), then probiotics can be really helpful in getting you back on track.

Stress

Stress is a major cause of suppressed immune systems. And what makes it worse, is that when we are stressed, we often eat less well and rely on 'energy props' such as sugar or sweet foods, and excess coffee to give us a boost. These have a detrimental effect on our energy and nutrient levels. The more we indulge in these foods, the more deficient we become in vitamins and minerals, and the cycle spirals on in a negative way.

During times of stress, try to eat lots of vegetables (especially green ones), and some fruit, especially berries. Eat brown grains instead of white ones (brown rice, brown bread, etc.) so that you get the important B vitamins and chromium to keep your energy up. You can also try anti-stress herbs, such as ashwagandha or rhodiola, or extra Vitamin B Complex which may be helpful in alleviating the symptoms of stress.

Shiitaki Mushrooms

This mushroom has been used for many years in Japan, where studies have shown it contains an antiviral substance which can stimulate the immune system. The Japanese have long valued the Shiitake mushroom as a natural defence against viral and bacterial infections. Can be eaten raw or cooked. They have a rich, earthy flavour and are slightly chewy.

Although not at present shown on the website, we are able to supply Solgar Shiitaki in capsule form. Please enquire at orders.vanderbell@btinternet.com

References:

1. Hemila H. Vitamin C and the common cold. Br.J.Nutr.1992;67:3-16

2. Meydani SN, et al. Vitamin E supplementation and in vivo immune response in healthy elderly subjects. A randomized controlled trial. JAMA 1997 May 7;277(17):1380-6

3. Clausen SW. Carotenemia and resistance to infection. Trans.Am.Pediatr.Soc. 1931;43:27-30