Build a Strong Immune System with this Advice

Build a Strong  Immune System • Q&A with Reginald Cherry, MD

We all want to build a strong immune system, especially as we approach winter months or anticipate leaving town for any reason. A strong immune system is the foundation of wellness. Here, Dr. Cherry answer six important questions about building a strong, balanced immune system.

1. As we approach winter, what wellness concerns and goals should we consider as health conscious readers?

Build a strong immune system for avoiding cold, flu and respiratory illnesses would be the most important considerations as we approach winter. Even if there isn’t a serious outbreak such as the 2009 H1N1 pandemic, seasonal flu causes thousands of deaths each year, as well as serious complications such as bacterial pneumonia, ear or sinus infections, and worsening of chronic medical conditions. Colds themselves are not as potentially devastating to our health, but they can take a toll on quality of life and productiveness. Colds can also lead to more serious medical complications, including sinus infections, asthma attacks, bronchitis and ear infections, and possibly several weeks of respiratory symptoms long after the cold is over.
Another thing to consider in the winter is the lack of vitamin D. Even in sunnier locations such as Southern California, the strength of the sun is lower in winter months, making it harder for our bodies to convert sunlight to vitamin D, and people are less likely to be getting sun exposure outdoors. Research is also showing that Vitamin D plays an important role in immune function, which makes it even more important this time of year.

2. Should we consider a flu shot? If not, why? If so, what factors should weigh in as we make our decision?

The flu shot is a valuable tool in the arsenal against flu, but it shouldn’t be considered the only tool. Remember, while there are many different types and strains of influenza, the flu shot only protects against the three strains that are predicted to be the most common for the upcoming season. Also, the flu shot does not prevent the common cold or other respiratory illnesses.
So while a flu shot does offer some protection, it does not provide full protection; we need to take additional steps to build a strong immune system and defend ourselves against cold and flu.

3. What methods do you recommend for building a strong immune system at this time of year?

The goal is to have a strong, healthy, BALANCED immune system year-round to help fend off illnesses, pathogens and foreign invaders. A balanced, strong immune system can be supported nutritionally with nutrients that strengthen immunity without over-stimulating it. Based on research and clinical experience, I have found 23 immune-balancing ingredients that I recommend for achieving optimal immune function, and I have combined these ingredients into Immunity Support, a natural supplement that can be safely taken every day, all year.
This formula includes vitamins and minerals such as selenium, copper, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and E; herbs like astragalus, Siberian ginseng and olive leaf extract; and the compounds beta-glucan, inulin, arabinogalactan, L-glutamine and probiotics. It also includes the immune balancing food concentrates pomegranates, elderberries and blueberries; maitake, shiitake, and reishi mushrooms; and garlic.
Immunity Support is formulated to be taken with a multi-nutrient containing vitamin D, like my Basic Nutrient Support formula. It’s a simple step you can take to optimize your immune function.

4. Which herbs (and nutrients) are most effective for immune boosting?
There are four vitamins/minerals that are critical in enhancing immune system function: vitamin E, vitamin C, zinc, and, as already mentioned, vitamin D. In addition, astragulus root and the polysaccharide beta-glucan both boost the immune system, and elderberry fruit has been used for thousands of years and clinically tested against all major strains of the flu. Lastly, probiotics feed and increase the counts of healthy bacteria in the gut, which is a very important part of a strong immune system. The herbs echinacea and goldenseal are useful for short periods of time to help you get over a cold or flu, but it is not recommended that they be used long-term or on a daily basis.
5. What activities/foods/habits dampen the immune system?
Regular exercise, eating a Mediterranean Diet (featuring whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, lean protein, fish, yogurt, nuts, and olive oil), maintaining a healthy weight, staying hydrated, getting adequate sleep and managing stress are all lifestyle habits that support a strong immune system.

On the contrary, then, are those lifestyle and dietary practices that can dampen the immune system: inactivity/lack of exercise; a diet high in processed foods, saturated fats, sugar and salt; being overweight/obese; not getting enough sleep or drinking enough water; and experiencing too much stress.

6. What is our best defense against winter colds and flu?
Most cold and flu viruses are spread by direct contact with either the people carrying the virus or an object they have touched. So the standard advice of frequent hand-washing, avoiding those who are sick, not touching your face (the most likely way for viruses to enter the body), and avoiding or disinfecting shared surfaces (phones, door handles, office equipment, etc.) can all go a long way in offering protection. But maintaining a balanced, strong immune system is the best defense against winter colds, flu – and any of the other thousands of bacteria, viruses, and harmful organisms that threaten our health all year round.

To learn more about Immunity Support and other natural supplements formulated by Dr. Cherry and NAI, visit www.thepathwaytohealing.com