The Wellness Report
Immune System

Immune System

The immune system has the task of keeping the body healthy by fighting pathogens, disease-producing microorganisms, or neutralizing their toxins. The immune system employs the abilities of the skin, the mucous membranes, hair, cilia, saliva, urine, and other natural means of waste disposal in its function of keeping the body free of pathogens.

Should bacteria enter the body, the immune system employs cells in the body to fight invading bacteria and to prevent its spread. While the immune system works constantly to keep the body free from infection, there are periods of time when the body experiences a good deal of stress. Physical stress can cause the consumption of many nutrients— nutrients that may directly affect immunocompetence. That is one of the reasons it is important that it remain well-nourished and in homeostasis.

More about the immune system
Nutrients, Diet & Lifestyle

Nutrients

VITAMIN A is a fat-soluble nutrient which plays an important role in the healthy formation of mucous membranes, part of the body’s outer protection against foreign matter.

Mucus is composed of water, cast off tissue cells, mucin, and white blood cells—the leukocytes which function as the catalyst for the B-cells and T-cells in the immune response process.

BETA CAROTENE is the preferred source of vitamin A because it is non-toxic, being converted to vitamin A only as the body needs it.

VITAMIN C is essential for the immune system, in the production of collagen and plays a role in the absorption of iron.

The B COMPLEX vitamins play a role in the nourishment of the immune system.

VITAMIN B-2 aids in the formation of red blood cells and antibodies.

PANTOTHENIC ACID serves as a part of coenzyme A, which is essential for the production of energy, for the production of antibodies, and the healthy maintenance of the central nervous system.

VITAMIN B-6 is necessary for the maintenance of healthy skin, as well as the production of antibodies.

FOLIC ACID is necessary for growth of all types of cells in the body, including white blood cells.

VITAMIN E protects fat soluble vitamins and red blood cells. It is essential for the proper functioning of hair and the mucous membranes, both of which protect the body’s openings.

ZINC is a component of zinc metalloenzymes, which are necessary for cell growth and the proper functioning of the immune system.

L-CYSTEINE is essential for the proper utilization of vitamin B-6 and serves as part of the body’s heavy metal detoxification system.

Dietary Suggestions

● Consume a diet low in fat and high in fresh foods and fiber.

● Eat whole grains, sea foods, eggs, yogurt, papaya and garlic.

● Avoid junk food and processed food.

● Lower your dairy and sugar intake.

● Avoid foods with chemicals and preservatives.

Lifestyle

● Get aerobic exercise regularly.

● Avoid stress & sustained tension.

● Try to take in a few minutes of early morning sunlight everyday but avoid excessive sun exposure.

● Avoid antibiotics if possible and drugs, heavy metal and environmental pollutants and radiation.

Immune System

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