Immunity

A pre-emptive strike is best! What can we do to ensure our immune system is in tip-top condition?

Firstly, take immune-enhancing herbs. For example, Andrographis, Echinacea, Olive leaf and Elderberry. These all come in various tableted forms or of course, I can mix up herbal blends.

Secondly, take vitamin C and zinc. At least 1000 mg of vitamin C and 50 mg elemental zinc. Ensure the zinc is in a bisglycinated form, as this has a far superior absorption compared to other forms of zinc.

Vitamin C concentrations rapidly decline during infections and plays an important role in fighting resistance to infection. Vitamin C enhances T lymphocyte proliferation and improves antimicrobial and natural killer cell activity.

Thirdly, take a probiotic, particular one with the strains Lactobacillus rhamnosus LGG and Lactobacillus paracasei which help to promote immune regulation by interacting with the gut associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) stimulating the production of regulatory T cells. A great deal of our immune system is located in the gut, so stimulating these immune-enhancing cells within is crucial. Also ensure your diet includes fermented foods such as kefir, yoghurt, sauerkraut and kimchi.

Fourthly, ensure your vitamin D levels are within reference range. At least 50 nmol/L in winter and 70 nmol/L in summer.

Vitamin D has been shown to play an important role in regulating the immune system. D3 suppresses most elements of the adaptive immune system whilst inducing most elements of the innate immune system. By inducing the innate immune system, vitamin D enhances the response to both bacterial and viral agents, by promoting differentiation and activity of macrophages (a large white blood cell that “eats” bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi). Depending on your deficiency you should take between 1000 IU to 3000 IU per day.

The above are the basic, fundamental range of herbs, vitamins and minerals that we should be doing now. Dosages would be increased at the first sign of infection, and additional supplements such as a mushroom blends of Shiitake, Cordtceps, Coriolus and Reishi would be added in for added viral fighting force. These mushrooms increase immune activation in viral infections.