Immune system, weak

The immune system is most crucial as a defense system. It is able to recognize, destroy and eliminate many different types of foreign invaders and cancers throughout the body. We go about our everyday lives oblivious to the protection it continually renders until we become sick. Illness itself is not always a sign of a weakened immune system, but rather of recurrent or lingering infections. Some specific symptoms of a weak immune system include constant fatigue, swollen glands, colds and sore throats. If the symptoms are pronounced and accompanied by weakness or weight loss, have a professional check-up for a proper diagnosis.

Although the immune system is exceedingly complex, there are some simple factors that can weaken it. Excessive physical and emotional stress, including depression, are common underlying problems. Chronic, severe or long-lasting illness, and surgery, can leave the defense system exhausted and make convalescence particularly slow. Poor and inadequate diet interferes with the normal function of the immune system. Empty calories in highly processed foods and sweets not only fail to provide nourishment, but are also harmful. Obesity, poor physical condition and lack of activity are other contributing factors. Many medications, especially cortisone and antibiotics, affect the defense system adversely, particularly when they are taken for long periods of time. The immune system is also sensitive to toxic substances including excessive alcohol and heavy metals. Individual constitution plays a role and those with a weaker system must work harder to keep their immune system healthy.

Sugar hinders the body's immune system and makes the body vulnerable to infections and allergies. The shape, activity and number of white cells are adversely affected by heavy sugar consumption. Sugar is the single most underrated cause of immune impairment. One study showed that eating 3.5 oz. of the simple carbohydrate that exists in sucrose, glucose, fructose, honey and orange juice significantly reduced the ability of white blood cells to engulf and destroy bacteria. In contrast, 3.5 Oz. of starchy, complex carbohydrate had no effect. Yet another test revealed that eating 75 grams of glucose depressed the white blood cells responsible for producing antibodies that protect against infections.

Supplements and herbs

A wide array of nutrients are needed to provide additional support to a healthy diet. Most people are familiar with the importance of vitamin C for colds. This vitamin improves the body's resistance to disease. It strengthens white blood cells which fight infections. It also keeps viruses and bacteria from multiplying. Bioflavonoids taken with vitamin C enhance the performance of this vitamin and improve its absorption. Vitamin C and bioflavonoids should be taken on a daily basis to improve overall resistance to infection. In acute infections, the need for vitamin C increases, so the dosage can be increased dramatically.

The B vitamins, in particular B6 and pantothenic acid, play a role in antibody and white blood cell production. Supplements containing acidophilus and other friendly bacteria re-establish healthy intestinal flora. These flora are necessary for the immune system, to fend off parasitic and fungi. Lactobacillus acidophilus is a must for anyone with a low immune system after using antibiotics, as antibiotics kill this important flora.

Zinc is instrumental for immune system function. Vitamin A also improves immune system response, whether or not a deficiency exists. It can even help counteract a suppression of the immune system. Beta-carotene and vitamin A have anticancer properties, act as antioxidants and stimulate the immune system. They are particularly helpful for respiratory problems, because they serve an important function in the mucous membranes. Vitamin E helps the immune system, especially as an antioxidant. The elderly often need more of this vitamin.

Other popular supplements good for boosting the immune system are garlic and citrus seed extract. Garlic is an excellent antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal agent. Citrus seed extract is an excellent germ fighter for fending off colds and infections.

Chlorophyll from green food supplements like wheatgrass or barley grass, spirulina and chlorella are rich in nutrients that build blood and tissues. They also detoxify the system and combat inflammation. They are most effective when taken regularly for several months. Essential fatty acids are vital to the body and immune system. Cold-pressed oils, such as evening primrose oil, should be added to improve overall health.

Vitamin and mineral deficiencies will weaken the body's resistance to disease. A common deficiency is iodine, resulting in a low thyroid condition and poor immunity.

Strengthen the body's resistance to disease and increase performance by increasing the function of the elimination organs, including the intestines, kidneys, skin, lungs and the liver.

• Several plants stimulate the detoxifying process of the eliminating organs. These include stinging nettle, dandelion, watercress, Echinacea, Korean white ginseng, fir and pine shoots, thyme and juniper. Fresh juices made from any of these herbs will purify the blood and the immune system tremendously. Take 1-2 tbsp. three times daily for four weeks.
• Echinacea boosts the immune system by stimulating the white blood cells to increased activity. The cells destroy bacteria and viral infections and break down decaying and toxic matter. Take 1 capsule three times daily, or take 15-30 drops of Echinacea extract in liquid every three hours for two to five days. Repeat after two weeks, if required.
• Blend 2 tbsp. each of dandelion root, licorice root, couch grass root and lovage root. Make a decoction of 1 cup of water to 1 tbsp. of mixture. Drink warm, 1 cup in the morning and 1 cup in the evening for three weeks to expel toxins and build immunity.

What else you can do

• To build strong resistance to disease and premature aging, all therapies that stimulate the detoxifying and elimination processes of the body should be applied. The skin is the largest detoxifying organ of the body. The skin also stores specific antibacterial forces built up by water, air and light stimulation. Through water therapies, the skin can also be trained to more efficiently regulate warmth and circulation of the body. Cold-water stepping, dew walking, dry brushing and lymph drainage should be part of a program to stimulate the skin.
• Regular swimming in cold water is excellent for increasing the body's resistance to bacterial and viral infections.
• Spend your recreational time exercising outdoors.
• Sufficient sleep, at least eight hours daily, and relaxation are essential to maintaining a strong immune system.

How much to take

• Vitamin C, with bioflavonoids, 1,000 mg one to three times daily (or every few hours during an infection) to bowel tolerance
• Vitamin B complex, 100 mg one to three times daily
• Zinc, 25 mg, with 3 mg copper
• Vitamin A, 25,000 IU
• Vitamin E, with mixed tocopherols, 400 IU
• Green food supplements, 1 tbsp
• Lactobacillus acidophilus, 3 capsules or 1 tsp.
• Evening primrose oil, two 500 mg capsules three times daily
• Beta-carotene, 25,000 IU
• Garlic, 1-3 capsules three times daily
• Citrus seed extract, 1-3 capsules three times daily

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