Supplements to Boost the Immune System

Vitamins, Nutrition and Natural Solutions to Maintain Good Health

Aug 9, 2009

A strong immunity is the first line of defense against colds, flu and countless other viral and bacterial germs.

Since prevention is better than a cure, it pays to work on giving the immune system all the help it can get.

Concentrate on providing body and mind a clean, non-toxic environment by cutting out smoking and drinking plenty of good quality water. Help the body with herbal boosters, vitamin supplements and good quality food.

Natural Ways to a Healthy Immune System

Good nutrition is part of disease prevention. The key to a healthy immune system is to avoid processed products. Choose organic and free-range produce and pick foods that are as close to their original state as possible.

Raw, organic fruits and vegetables: The human body knows exactly how to metabolize fresh, healthy fruits and vegetables to maximum effect in boosting the immune system. Eat plenty of leafy green vegetables, fresh citrus fruit, berries, papaya, avocado pears, carrots, yams, broccoli, seeds and nuts to help to body build immune strength.

Traditional immune boosters: Selenium (found in tuna, whole grains, vegetables, brown rice, egg yolks, cottage cheese, chicken sunflower seeds, Brazil nuts).

Fight stress levels: Find ways of dealing with stress by taking exercise, deep breathing, laughing and having fun and controlling negative thinking.

Cut out refined sugar: Consuming refined sugar in all its hidden forms will contribute to an immune system that is constantly working below optimum levels. Sugar damages health over time.

Herbal Immune Boosters

Echinacea: Paediatrician William Sears suggests taking echinacea for two weeks when there are signs of a cold coming on or when entering an immune-challenging environment such as a new school or office.

Immunostimulating herbs: Herbs that are well-known and effective in boosting the immune system, include ginseng, astragalus, licorice root, goldenseal root, gotu kola, schizandra, lapacho, reishi mushrooms, dong quai, and yerba mate.

Supplements and Vitamins to Support the Immune System

Vitamin C: Boosts the production of infection-fighting white blood cells and antibodies. Vitamin C also increases levels of interferon, the antibody that coats cell surfaces and which then prevents viral entry.

Zinc: This important mineral boosts the production of white blood cells which in turn fights infection.

Probiotics: These contain healthy gut bacteria and help keep the digestive system in good working condition, assist with allergic conditions and aid in strong immunity. Probiotics should be taken especially after a course of antibiotics to help the body regain its balance.

Propolis: Made by bees, propolis has antiseptic and antibacterial qualities and helps fight viruses.

Multivitamin: A whole food multivitamin/mineral supplement such as a green super food (wheat grass barley grass, spirulina or alfalfa) will help to boost the immune system.

Consultation with a conventional doctor is advisable for persistent conditions. Always disclose the use of herbal supplements and other medications to medical practitioners.

Feel Good Health Guide, Fairlady magazine, Article 'Winter Wellness', 26 June 2009