Your immune system is a powerful, complex network of living cells that work together to combat harmful bacteria, viruses and other pathogens that enter the body.  Your immune cells need daily nourishment to stay strong.  The following are several attainable ways to strengthen your body and maintain good health during this upcoming season.

Supplements:

Vitamin C:  This is probably the most common known nutritional supplement and has been shown to be both antiviral and antibacterial which means it kills the microorganisms on contact.  Vitamin C may enhance immune system function by decreasing the duration or reduce the severity of the symptoms.  The best Vitamin C supplements contain bioflavonoids and are buffered in order to prevent intestinal discomfort.

Zinc:  This mineral has been shown to support the immune system and has antiviral properties.  If used lozenge form, use one that contains glycine as a sweetener because sorbitol, mannitol, and citric acid can reduce zinc's effectiveness.  It is not recommended to use longer than seven days because after this time it may actually impair immune function.

Echinacea:  P. purpurea is considered to be the most effective.  Echinacea has been used in the United States and Europe to support the immune system because it is thought to increase the production of white blood cells and to have a positive effect on the lymph system.  It may also stimulate cellular activity to support healthy respiratory function.

Vitamin D3:  The immune system contains Vitamin D receptors.  If there is not enough Vitamin D present in the body to bind with these receptors (common especially in Northern Climates), immune cells become weak and cannot protect the body from infection.  Vitamin D3 has been recognized as the most active form.

Probiotics:  Probiotics are live microorganisms that are basically good bacteria found in the human gut. Friendly bacteria are vital to the proper development of the immune system to protect the body against disease and to promote healthy digestion and absorption of food and nutrients.  This bacterial balance in the body can be thrown off in two major ways:
1.  By taking antibiotics which kill both the good and unfriendly bacteria.  2.  Having too many "unfriendly" microorganisms in the body such as yeasts, fungi and parasites. 

Attainable Foods To Support Your Immune System:

Sambucus Nigra Black Elderberry Extract:   This is an all natural, liquid formula that may help to promote immune health.  It is made of a potent, concentrated extract of black elderberries from the European elder tree that is rich in immune enhancing antioxidants.  It can be taken by both adults and children. 

Garlic:  Garlic contains allicin which is a strong naturally occurring compound that is both antiviral and antibacterial.  It may also fortify healthy cell function.  Using fresh garlic whether cooking or raw is best.

Green Tea:  This contains a great source of polyphenols, especially EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) which provides strong immune and antioxidant protection. Can be ingested both warm or cold.

Vitamin A Rich Foods:  Include a lot of bright orange and green vegetables to help make the respiratory membranes strong.  Choose from carrots, pumpkin, apricots, mangoes, spinach, cabbage, kale, collards, and swiss chard.  These foods are plentiful during this time of year.

Vitamin C Rich Foods:  Include green and citrus fruits that have natural anti-viral properties and help macrophage cells which consume the bad bugs.  Choose from peppers, spinach, and organic berries.

As with any health recommendations, it is important to discuss the use of nutritional supplements with your physician, naturopath or certified nutritionist before using such products as presented in this article.  However, only you can make healthy choices about how you live your life.  By making wise decisions about how you eat, sleep, take time for exercise, de-stress,  and by breathing deeply you can support your body to keep it functioning well.

(These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.  The supplements mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.)

Excerpts from:  Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine by Michael Murray, N.D., Eight Weeks to Optimum Health and Eating Well by Andrew Weil, M.D., Natural Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine and Vitacost.com.

If you or anyone you know is interested in how to become an advocate for your own health, please contact me for a COMPLIMENTARY Health History Evaluation at:www.LiveBetter4Life.com.