6 Easy Ways to Boost Immunity and Fight Infection

The purpose of the immune system, according to the National Institute of Health (NIH) is to have a network of cells, tissues, and organs, working together to protect the body against foreign invaders.

The army of cells in the immune system performs 3 key tasks in order to function.

1.   Identify a foreign invader

2.  Generate a series of communications

3.  Launch an attack

Let’s explore our Immune Super Heroes:

1.  A- GAME

   Found in fermented cod liver oil, liver and beta carotene-rich vegetables like carrots, spinach, and yams; vitamin A protects against infections by increasing white blood cell production.

2. SUN LOVER

   Vitamin D has been shown to decrease the severity of autoimmunity and enables our body to effectively fight viruses.  Best source is sunlight, liver, grass-fed butter, fatty fish, egg yolks, and fermented cod liver oil.

3.  COLD BUSTER

   Vitamin C is antibacterial, antibacterial, and antihistamine, boosts antibody production and improves antibiotic therapy.  Enjoy papaya, red bell pepper, strawberries, and oranges, plus superfoods like goji berries and incan berries for a vitamin  C boost.

4.  MINERAL MAGIC

   Zinc and selenium both boos immunity.  Favorite foods to include to amp up these immune supporting minerals are liver, beef, oysters, scallops, lamb, oats, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, and brazil nuts.

5. GET HERBY

   Turn to plant power to boost immune support; depending on the ailment and inner terrain, herbal favorites to explore are black elderberry, garlic, echinacea, turmeric, astragalus, goldenseal, and cat’s claw.

6. MAGICAL MUSHROOMS

   Best known for fighting cancer, medicinal mushrooms contain beta- D-glucan which helps modulate the immune system; the most common are shiitake, maitake, chaga, reishi, and turkey tail; take them as a tea, or food.

The human immune system is complex and possesses extensive “plasticity”.  In this way, it has the ability to adapt and respond to a variety of circumstances and external influences.  We can support this balance by adding in some of our Immune Super Heroes to our diet.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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