Flu Fears? Boost Your Immune System!

There has been much in the news lately about the H1N1 (Swine) Flu. Vaccines are presently undergoing testing before the anticipated onslaught of flu cases predicted for this fall. Not being a fan of flu vaccines under the best circumstances, the rush to get this one to market makes me even more uncomfortable.

I will be foregoing the flu shot (as I have for the last 20 years) and looking to boost my immune system and allow my natural defenders to take action against any invaders!

The aim and purpose of the immune system is to protect us from micro-organisms which may do us harm. The master gland of the immune system is the Thymus, which is most active around the time of birth, but starts to decrease in size and activity from puberty onwards. It is responsible for recognizing friend from foe (the basic outside threats to human health are either viruses or bacteria).

The first line of defense is the skin which forms a protective layer around us. The skin has a blood supply rich in immune cells and can secrete antimicrobial substances; membranes lining the eyes, nose, mouth, throat and other body openings contain immune cells and enzymes that help prevent antigens from reaching the inner body.

The eyes secrete tear drops, which contain the enzyme lysozyme to break down harmful bacteria; saliva in the throat is also laden with antibacterial substances; and stomach acid often halts antigens before they can be absorbed (a good chunk of immunity lies in the proper function of the gut).

As well as being contained in the blood, many of the defender cells (macrophages, monocytes, lymphocytes, phagocytes) are found in the lymph. These cells work in different ways with some being fixed to their posts and grabbing the invader as it goes past and others being on a search and destroy mission. By being exposed to these micro-organisms we develop immune power which allows us to fight off colds, infections, flu and more serious viruses. So being sick isn't necessarily a bad thing, providing your immune system is up to the task!

Keeping the immune system in tip-top shape is no easy chore, given the complexities of the involuntary immune response; but, in addition to healthy diet changes (eliminating processed & sugary foods from your diet will also help your immune system), dietary supplements can help address general immune health, as well as target specific aspects of illness prevention and severity.

To support your immune system, make sure you are getting adequate amounts of these nutrients:
Vitamins C, E, A and the full B Complex (especially in times of stress)
Zinc
Selenium
Grape Seed Extract & Resveratrol
Aloe
Ginseng (also helps with stress!)
Medicinal Mushrooms are also great immunity boosters (http://bit.ly/Immune)

There are other dietary considerations to support the immune system as well. Please let me know if you would like more information on these special nutrients. Make sure you are also getting enough exercise to keep that Lymph System moving, and of course the old standby: WASH YOUR HANDS!!