How do we survive and even thrive in this world that is teeming with microorganisms? The answer, in short, is our immune system. Our immune system is composed of millions of cells circulating throughout the body. Like a finely conducted orchestra, these specialized body tissues and organs create an elaborate and complicated symphony of defense against infection and cancer. The organs and cells of the immune system are an integral part of our skin, respiratory system, and digestive system. They protest us by fighting off microscopic enemy invaders such as bacteria, viruses, toxins, fungus, and parasites. We also depend on the immune system to identify mutated cells and to destroy them before they can replicate into cancerous tumors. The immune system recognizes and attempts to destroy anything that is foreign to our normal cells and tissues.
The health of the immune system is greatly influenced by our daily thoughts and our daily activities. We know that sleep, exercise, smoking and alcohol consumption influence our immune system. How much sleep we do or don’t get, how much exercise we do, whether we smoke and how much alcohol we drink all significantly impact immune function.
Just like any of our bodily processes, our immune system relies upon good nutrition to function at its best. Optimal digestion occurs when we chew our food thoroughly, eat in a relaxed manner, eat nutrient-rich foods that contain their own enzymes (raw foods), and avoid processed and synthetic foods that can inflame the digestive tract and do not contain sufficient immune-enhancing nutrients. Maintaining healthy digestion and eating a nutritious diet will create more vigorous immune function.
A well-functioning immune system is integral to vital health. Our immune system is complex and adaptive and acts as a solid barrier against infection and diseases such as cancer. Keeping our immune system healthy will reduce sickness, autoimmunity and cancer.
A healthy immune system requires lifestyle improvements. Obtaining adequate sleep and exercise, along with managing stress and eating well, will support strong and balanced immunity. Quitting smoking is another critical factor for robust immune function. Diet is especially important, with an emphasis on consuming falconoid (colored vegetables and fruits), good fats, organically grown foods, and minimizing sugar and alcohol. Immune function is also enhanced with dietary supplements, such as Echinacea, garlic, olive leaf, astragalus, coenzyme Q10, vitamins B and C, and zinc. Remember, however: Supplements can never replace a wholesome diet. All of these daily practices and interventions will support the intricate and dynamic immune system, our most essential life-sustaining protection.
For a free 32-page booklet on your immune system, how it works, and supplement strategies to power up your defenses, stop by my office or give me a call.
Devada Rammell is a Holistic Health Practitioner and licensed Massage Therapist who owns a clinic, La Vida Sana Wellness, located in the Escondido Hills shopping plaza. More information about her services can be found online at www.LaVidaSanaWellness.com.
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