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To better understand how these natural helper enhance immunity, let's take a closer look at immune system function. For starters, our immune system never rests. It is a 24-hour security system searching for proteins that don't belong in our bodies. These proteins are called antigens. They include viruses, harmful bacteria, fungi, parasites, pollens, particles, and even malignant cells. (Under some conditions like allergies, the immune system overreacts by responding to substances that are not harmful). Like the stress response in which the body reacts through the same physiological pathways no matter what the stressor, the immune system behaves similarly to any invasion regardless of where it occurs in the body or what the caysative agent might be. This response is complicated and depends on a number of elements functioning together...truly a defense mechanism.
The main elements of the immune system are the bone marrow, the thymus gland, the spleen, the complement system, and the lymphatic system. Stem cells, red blood cells, and platelets are produced in the bone marrow. Stem cells are actually undifferentiated white blood cells. The white blood cells circulate throughout the body in the bloodstream and the lymphatic system. They are the mainstay of the immune system. Depending upon where in the body they mature, they are differentiated into "eater" cells, T cells, and B cells. Eater cells are produced in the liver and spleen. The B cells also mature in the thymus gland.
There are two kinds of eater cells or phagocytes: "big eaters" and small eaters." Called macrophages and macrophages, the phagocytes form the general defense of the body. They are nonspecific in that they attack whatever presents as not you. The big eaters can devour almost anything with a potent substance called lysosome. The microphages also contain powerful digestive agents. Although there are billions of eaters cells, because of their nonspecific nature, they have a distinct limitation. There are certain microorganisms which can get by them. For example, the bacteria associated with pneumonia are unaffected, plus they are useless against viral invasion. T cells and B cells are types of defender cells called lymphocytes. Several kinds of T cells have been identified, each with its own specific action. These are killer cells, helper cells, suppressor cells, and memory cells.
Suppressor cells, may sound familiar. They deactivate the immune system when it is no longer needed. Unfortunately, in Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), the HIV virus invades and destroys helper T cells but does not attack the suppressor cells. As a result, there is an excess of suppressor cells and the immune system shuts down. With a lack of helper cells, there is nothing to reactivate the system and antigens run rampant in the unprotected body, causing a variety of opportunistic infections such as candida albicans. The T memory cells are also of interest. Every invader results in the production of T cells which remember it. If this antigen ever occurs in the body again, these cells insure the rapid response of antibodies to attack it. Memory cell function is the rationale behind vaccine theory.
The B cells, the second type of lymphocyte, mature in the spleen to become plasma cells. Plasma cells produce specific antibodies (immunoglobins) that have the ability to neutralize particular antigens (foreign invaders). including viruses, so that they cannot do damage. Each antibody is produced exclusively by a particular set of B cells which snag most of the foreign invaders before they lodge in the tissues.
All of the lymphocytes and the phagocytes release potent chemicals, called cytokines, which send inyercellular signals keeping the immune system coordinated. Two of the more is active against viral infection, and tumor necrosis factor, which destroys cells showing abnormally rapid growth. The lymphatic system has been described as a kind of secondary circulatory system, complementing the bloodstream. To reach the individual cells, nutrients, immune components, and other substances pass out of the capillaries and are transported by the lymphatic system. This system consists of millions of tiny vessels or ducts throughout the body. The lymph fluid flows toward the chest, back into the blood, and through the liver and kidneys. The lymph nodes occur in groups of a dozen or more along the lymph ducts and act as filters for the removal of ineffective organisms. The valves of the lymph system shunt the fluid along but there is no pump. Circulation depends on breathing and muscle movement. This is one reason that exercise enhance immunity.
The spleen belongs in part to the lymphatic system and is the largest collection of lymph tissue in the body. Spleen removal results in subtle detrimental effects on both T and B cell function. The complement system is the last part of the immune system to be discussed. Complement is a complex series of twelve enzymatic proteins that circulate in the blood. They react both to the presence of other immune substances and to antigens. They promote the efficacy of the phagocytes (ester cells), make lethal holes in bacterial cells, and enhance the inflammatory response.
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| DON'T EXERCISE TO EXCESS | Regular exercise is a necessary component of optimal health and supports the immune system. Exercising to the point of exhaustion, however, depresses the immune system several hours after the exertion and increases the risk of infection, especially for those who consume "sports drinks" that are little other than salt and colored sugar water. This presents a window of opportunity for pathogens. The immune-damaging effects of excessive exercise are well demonstrated in a recent study of 2,300 marathon runners. The researchers found that runners who run 60 or more miles a week suffer twice as many upper respiratory tract infections as those who run less than 20 miles a week. They also found that in the week after the marathon, those who registered and trained for it, but did not actually run in the race. (Physician Sports Medicine 1993; 21: 125-33). Intense exercise appears to damage the immune system through the production of high levels of free radicals. |
| AVOID ASPIRIN AND SIMILAR DRUGS | While many people take aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen for conditions such as the common cold with little thought about toxicity or impact on their immune systems, there is reason for concern. In one research study, 60 healthy volunteers had a common cold virus sprayed in their noses, then were placed in one of four treatment groups: aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen or placebo. Those given aspirin and acetaminophen had lowered production of antibodies and increased nasal symptoms, and a trend toward longer duration of virus shedding. (Journal of Infectious Diseases, 1990; 162: 1277-82). |
| ELIMINATE CANDIDA FROM YOUR INTESTINES | While the normal intestinal tract harbors small amounts of yeast, yeast overgrowth is now more common due to the widespread use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, corticosteroid drugs, birth control pills and the excessive consumption of sugar. Intestinal overgrowth of Candida (yeast) causes significant suppression of the immune system. As yeast proliferate, they penetrate the intestinal mucous, causing localized damage. The leaky gut that develops allows increased absorption of immune-suppressing bowel toxins and food allergens. In addition, the immune complexes formed by the yeast are directly immunosuppressive. Candida overgrowth is a common side effect of antibiotics given to hospitalized patients. For example, in a study of 55 patients admitted to the trauma service of a hospital, all were given broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy during some point of their stay. Sixty-seven percent developed elevated Candida antigen levels in their blood during their hospital stays, indicating that Candida were overgrowing in their intestines (and in the vaginas of female subjects). The researchers also found that their white cells were not able to inhibit Candida albicans growth as effectively as white cells from the patients who did not have Candida antigens in their blood. (Archives of Surgery, 1993; 128:40-6). See Yeast supplements |
| DECREASE EXPOSURE TO MUCOUS MEMBRANE INFECTIONS WITH CRANBERRY JUICE | Sometimes the best way to help the immune system is to reduce the load on it. This is especially important for those with chronic mucous membrane infections, such as the 2 to 4 percent of women with chronic urinary tract infection. Often the best approach is simply to keep the bacteria from entering the body by drinking cranberry juice. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 153 people with chronic urinary tract infection showed that drinking 10 ounces of cranberry juice a day decreased the level of bacteria and white cells in their urine by 58 percent compared to the placebo group. (JAMA, 1994; 271:751-4) Many studies, some dating back to 1966, show that unsweeten cranberry juice is also effective in the treatment of acute urinary tract infection. Cranberry juice works by inhibiting the adherence of bacteria to the cells of the bladder. For best results, look for pure cranberry juice that has no added sugars or flavorings or Cranberry extract capsules. |
| DECREASE EXPOSURE TO HEAVY METALS | Heavy metals cause widespread damage to the immune system. Exposure to mercury, lead, cadmium and arsenic all cause immunological disorders. Lead (from such sources as old paint and copper water pipes) and cadmium (from cigarette smoke) cause immune suppression by inhibiting the formation of antibodies and reducing the bactericidal activity of white cells. Mercury (from dental amalgams and consumption of contaminated fish) inhibits antibody production. Heavy metals can be cheated out of the body by eating foods such as garlic for cadmium, lead and mercury) and by taking supplements such as N-acetycysteine (for arsenic) and trace minerals such as selenium (for cadmium, lead and mercury) and zinc (for cadmium and lead). A reverse-osmosis water filter is one of the best ways to remove copper and lead from drinking water. |
| DECREASE EXPOSURE TO PESTICIDES AND OTHER CHEMICAL TOXINS | Pesticides and other chemical toxins are potent immune suppressants as they decrease the number and activity of white cells. Pesticide exposure resulted in decreased number of T and B lymphocytes in 81 percent of 107 patients. (Journal of Nutritional Medicine, 1991; 2: 399-410) Dioxin, a highly toxic environmental pollutant causes thymus atrophy, and organic solvents (e.g., paint thinners, petroleum distillates and carpet cleaners) cause both depression in natural cell activity and an increase in auto-antibodies, i.e., antibodies that the body mistakenly develops to its own tissues-a very serious condition. Even silicone implants, which have been widely used by women to increase breast size and shape, and by men to increase muscle size and shape, have been found to suppress natural killer cell activity complaining of symptoms that developed after the implants were inserted. Fortunately, their symptoms and natural killer cell abnormalities reversed when the implants were removed. (Toxicology and Industrial Health, 1994; 10:149-54). Anyone with a history of exposure to chemical should avoid additional exposure and support the liver's efforts to detoxify by using herbs such as milk thistle. Look for household products, like are free of damaging solvents like toluene. |
| AVOID FOODS YOU ARE ALLERGIC TO | I consider unrecognized reactions to foods to be among the most important immune suppressing problems facing people today. When a person eats a food he or she is allergic to, the immune system reacts as if it has been attacked by a foreign invader. This results in white cells being activated and migrating to the intestines. Viruses, bacteria, fungi and cancer cells elsewhere in the body then have more opportunity to grow and invade unchecked. An example of the importance of eliminating allergenic foods was demonstrated in a study of 104 children with chronic ear infections: 81 were found to have food allergies, typically to milk and wheat. When the offending foods were removed from the children's diets, their ear problems were resolved. Reintroduction of the allergenic foods resulted in the return of ear infections. (Science News, 1994; 146:213). Vitamin C can help de-stress the adrenals, which are exhausted by allergic symptoms. |
| CABBAGE | The lowly cabbage heads our list because it is such a versatile member of the cruciferous vegetable family, which includes cauliflower. Brussels sprouts, broccoli and turnips. The cruciferous family is high in cancer-fighting indoles, substances that can deactivate carcinogens, allowing them to be removed harmlessly from the body. In fact, researchers have acknowledged that eating cabbage on a weekly basis can lessen the risk of colon cancer by 50 percent. For centuries, cabbage has been used as a natural bactericide and anti-viral agent, and its ability to soothe stomach ulcers is well known. This humble vegetable can be enjoyed raw, cooked or fermented (e.g., sauerkraut and kimchi). Red cabbage has about the same nutritive value as green cabbage. To heighten the redness, add a dash of vinegar or cranberry juice to cooking water. |
| FLAXSEED | One of the "designer foods" selected by the National Cancer Institute, flaxseed oil has been clinically for more than 50 years by the German biochemist Johanna Budwig, Ph.D., to treat cancer, asthma, high blood pressure, inflammatory bowel disease and other degenerative diseases. Her studies confirm flaxseed's role as a cancer controller and tumor dissolve. Research is currently being conducted on the role of flaxseed in immune system enhancement, bone mineralization, and cholesterol metabolism. These tiny seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, the fish oils that have received so much acclaim. Flaxseed is also the highest natural source-along with mother's milk-of the combined omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids. Essential fatty acids are the raw material from which prostaglandin's, hormone-like substances that control the cardiovascular, hormone-like substances that control the cardiovascular, reproductive and central nervous systems, are made. Most clinicians suggest that one to two tablespoons per day in the flaxseed oil form. Flaxseed can also be consumed raw in salads, vegetables, and cereals. |
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The magical shiitake has been used for hundreds of years in Asia where its ability to boost and balance the entire immune system is well appreciated. Shiitake may be especially beneficial in cases of autoimmune diseases like HIV infection and chronic fatigue syndrome, where it acts as a potent re-balancing agent that enhances the body's ability to heal itself. Studies also indicate that it has anti-cancer benefits and may actually be a life extender for those who already have cancer of the breast, stomach or colorectal region. Shiitake's benefits are credited to a polysaccharide compound in the mushroom called lentinan, which enhances the body's ability to fight infection. Besides its immune-boosting ability, shiitake can also help to prevent heart disease by lowering cholesterol. It is available in many health food stores in capsule form; the usual recommendation is one capsule three times daily. Another mushroom popular among Asian cooks and doctors is the maitake, Grifola frondosa, called "hen of the woods" and "sheep's head" in North America. It is rich in protein, vitamins B1, B2, C and D, niacin, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous and other minerals. According to Christopher Hobbs, L.Ac., studies in China have shown an extract of maitake to be effective against lung, stomach and hepatocellular cancers and leukemia. (Medicinal Mushrooms, Botanica Press, 1995) Researchers also believe maitake may help lower blood pressure in persons with hypertension and blood glucose levels in diabetics, and prevent destruction of the body's T cells in HIV-positive individuals. Maitake is available dried in gourmet foods markets and Asian grocery stores and in tea bags. It is also available in caplet form; Hobbs gives the usual dosage as 3 to 7 gram per day. A Chinese remedy for cleansing toxins from the intestines is to soak shiitake mushrooms, then heat them with the soaking water like a soup and ingest on an empty stomach. |
| BEANS | Although beans are good for us in general, being high in protein, fibers and other nutritive factors and having gained fame for their cholesterol lowering abilities, one bean stands out from all the rest as a kind of super bean, the soybean. The joy of soy has been recognized by Eastern cultures for centuries. Recent research has finally uncovered why Asians, who have traditionally eaten a soy-based diet, do not suffer from high rates of cancer, cardiovascular and other diseases, like Westerners do. Soy products such as soybeans, tempeh and tofu contains is a special group of phytochemicals (plant-based substances) called isoflavones with mild estrogenic properties that have been demonstrated to retard the growth of cancer. Hundreds of scientific papers have been publishes which show that isoflavones may block the process in which new blood vessels grow, effectively keeping tumors and the HIV virus from receiving the nourishment they need to grow. Isoflavones work by acting as enzyme inhibitors, thereby decreasing cancer and virus cell growth. In addition, the soy protein itself is known to reduce serum cholesterol levels and also contribute to a lower risk of heart disease. The good news is that it only takes one serving a day of soy (e.g., soybeans, tempeh or tofu) to protect against disease. Some soy phytochemicals (like isoflavones) are now available in capsule form. Tofu is the Japanese word for soybean curb. When eating tofu, look for fresh tofu (snowy blocks submerged in water) instead of mass produced versions. Soy protein powders can also be used as a daily protein drink. |
| YOGURT | According to folk wisdom, this cultured milk product promotes a long life. Interestingly, research today has found that the probiotics (beneficial bacterial or "friendly flora") in yogurt may account for its longevity-promoting properties. An intestinal tract that is lacking probiotics like acidolphilus and bifidobacterium can set the stage for an over population of disease causing bacteria and parasities, In other words, when the gut is well colonized with "good" bacteria, pathogenic microorganisms are crowded out. Conversely, with an overgrowth of undesirable bacteria or parasites, the body's immune system starts to defend against the unfriendly microorganisms, creating an autoimmune response in which the body also attacks its other healthy tissues. Look for yogurt that contains active cultures. It is ideally consumed plain because the high amount of sugar contained in some flavored yogurt may suppress the immune system. One cup a day should be sufficient to protect immune function. To add flavor to plain yogurt without adding high amounts of refined sugar, try mixing in fresh fruit. Probiotics are now available in powder, capsule and freeze-dried form. Look for both acidolphilus and bifidobacterium. |
| LEAFY GREENS | Your mother was right when she told you to eat your spinach. It now appears that leafy, green vegetables, particularly spinach, kale and the leaves of barley and wheat, are potent immune system activators. Spinach and kale are some of the richest plant sources of folic acid, a nutrient recognized for its immune-enhancing properties. All green foods are rich sources of beta carotene and chlorophyll, two cancer and HIV fighters. Celery is a top immune-supporting green food because of its naturally high content of organic sodium. It acts as a first-line defense mineral because it aids in forming hydrochloric acid, which helps to kill the invading bacteria and parasites that can cause immune overload and set the stage for disease. Greens are powerful sources of minerals such as potassium, magnesium, calcium, vitamin B and C. For people who are not fans of leafy greens, green foods and all their benefits can be obtained in blendable green-food powders and in capsule form. Don't forget your daily intake of an salad. |
| GARLIC | The "stinking rose" is a repeated anti-viral, anti-fugal and anti-cancer agent. According to Herbert Pierson, Ph.D., a toxicologist formerly with the National Cancer Institute, too mush raw garlic can be toxic, but the dried, extracted and aged form is not. Garlic that is processed in theses ways can stimulate immunity because the healing sulfur-based compounds enter the body's cells more readily. Garlic can be used against hypertension, and as a pain killer, natural tranquilizer and anti-coagulant. There are many dried garlic products currently on the market in a variety of encapsulated forms, which are easily absorbed and will not give you garlic breath. |
| CITRUS FRUITS | Epidemiological evidence now suggests that citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruit, lemons and limes contain a pectin fiber that may be of benefit against many forms of cancer, but especially pancreatic cancer is a virulent form of cancer for which conventional medicine has no cure. Of course, the high vitamin C content in these fruits is also a potent aid in fighting off viruses. While modified citrus pectin - made water-soluble for optimal absorption - is available in many natural food stores, the easier way to get your citrus is through organically grown citrus fruits. Eating the whole citrus fruit can be more effective than drinking the juice. Glutathione and vitamin C, powerful antioxidants, doesn't hold up well when extracted during juicing. While all grapefruits is high in vitamin C, the pink and red are significantly higher in vitamin A than the white. |
| APPLES AND BANANAS | Apples reduce cholesterol and bacterial mostly because of their pectin content. (Pectin is a soluble fiber more powerful than found in oat bran). The big surprise about apples is their boron content. Not only does boron increase mental alertness and brain activity, it boosts blood levels of estrogen and other compounds that prevent calcium loss. Bananas are not only high in important minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium, but it's power works on the gastro-intestinal system. Long considered a remedy for diarrhea, bananas are also good for upset stomach and ulcers. |
| NUTS | Almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, brazil, peanuts have salutary effects on health in spite of their fat content. Nuts are a concentrated food source of proteins, unsaturated fats, the B-complex vitamins, vitamin E, calcium, iron, potassium, and magnesium. Nuts (especially brazil nuts), are also very high in selenium, the mineral necessary for the synthesis of glutathion, a very powerful antioxidant known to deactivate at least 30 cancer causing substance. Glutathion has been shown to almost completely stop replication of the AIDS virus in vitro. One nut provides 100 mcg. of selenium. |
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