Healthy Immune System is Answer to Colds & Flu
Experts often tell us to brace for the next “flu season.” That some virus is attacking with thousands of confirmed flu cases, and even deaths of children related to the flu. And, colds have become commonplace, especially in kids.
In reality, these “germs” are around almost all the time. It’s only when our immune system is weakened do they take hold in our body and make us sick. The elderly, weak and very young are most vulnerable, because their immune systems tend to be weaker already. Periods of stress tend to be the worse “season” because stress weakens our immune system. But we can fight back in a healthy way.
Not with antibiotics, which do nothing for colds and flu since they are caused by a virus and antibiotics should only be used on bacterial infections, but by simply improving the immune system.
The truth is the flu virus afflicts only a small percentage of those exposed to it, mainly those who have poorly functioning immune systems. If your immune system is functioning properly, you won’t likely get sick even if you’re exposed. Many people think improving the immune system means just taking vitamin C. The truth is, boosting immunity is much more complicated. In addition to many antioxidant nutrients besides vitamin C, the immune system can be improved by improving lifestyle habits.
Stress reduction is perhaps the most important factor during the cold and flu season Most people already have enough stress, but add to this poor food choices, and holiday stress, and it’s no wonder so many people get the flu. Learn to avoid those activities that may add to your stress level during the flu season.
Also related to stress, much of the immune system is housed within the digestive system. For instance, our much needed stomach hydrochloric acid destroys viruses that are ingested. Under stress and with increased age, hydrochloric acid is reduced, and many people may require supplementation with betaine hydrochloride, a dietary supplement that converts to the same healthy stomach acid.
In addition to the stomach, much of the body’s immune system resides in the small intestine. Improving intestinal function will also help to improve immune function.
Many other nutrients, available in our diet, may help strengthen the immune system. While vitamin C gets too much attention, other antioxidants such as the carotenoids, all eight components of the vitamin E complex (alpha, beta, delta and gamma tocopherols and tocotrienols), and flavonoids. These are found in abundance in colorful vegetables fruits and berries, and are among the antioxidants important in building and maintaining immunity.
In addition, the substance glutathione, made in our bodies, regulates the antioxidant defense mechanism, and is even more important and potent than popular antioxidants in foods. Whey protein contains high concentrations of biothiols including the amino acid cysteine, which the body uses to make glutathione. Goat and sheep milk is very high in whey, and whey concentrates are popular as dietary supplement powders (avoid isolated whey because it contains MSG).
Glutathione is also made with the help of a sulfur substance found in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables, including Brussels sprouts and cabbage. Broccoli sprouts are highest in this compound, called sulforaphan.
Other powerful foods can also help: consider using raw ginger root in a salad or in other recipes, or drop some slices in warm water and drink as a tea.
Not surprisingly, taking steps to improve immunity and avoid colds and flu are the same steps that help prevent major diseases. So working toward overall health will not only improve your chances against getting sick but also increase your odds for having better health for the rest of your lifetime.