As we approach autumn, it is the perfect time to start thinking about ways to bolster our immune system. Now, more so than ever, we need to nurture our immune system – our greatest defence. Let’s dive into some of our top tips.
Supporting our immune system, in the context of all our systems, has always been a key objective of naturopathic treatment. Whilst we always advocate obtaining the nutrients we require from a variety of nutrient dense foods, sometimes our bodies need a little extra help.
Our immune system is extremely complex comprising multiple layers of defence against a myriad of invading pathogens, which may be bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites. As we know, many so called ‘pathogens’ are also totally harmless when in balance, as evidenced by our gut flora, making up an important part of our immune system. In addition to being able to quickly detect invaders, the billions of immune cells also need to be able to accurately recognise self, that is our own tissue. Errors in this process result in conditions known as ‘auto-immune’ disease.
The immune system is responsible for regulating inflammation… that is sending inflammatory cells to assist in repairing tissue, whilst avoiding chronic inflammation. The latter can occur through poor dietary and lifestyle habits and our immune systems can also be negatively affected by chronic states of fear and stress. The intelligence of this finely tuned surveillance system is extraordinary.
Over the past two years, the sustained and collective fear apparent in society, is likely to have damaged our immune systems and there has been increased interest in how we can support our critical defence system.
Whilst there have been a number of nutrients I have recommended to my friends, family and clients during this period, there are four in particular which have formed a mainstay as part of this recommendation. These are:
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C is necessary for life itself. Without sufficient constant supply, our connective tissue deteriorates leading to the now rare condition known as Scurvy. Numerous studies have also shown the important role that Vitamin C in prevention and alleviation of upper respiratory tract infections such as cold and flu.
- Quercetin: This nutrient has anti-oxidant activity and it has been shown that quercetin acts as an ionophore for zinc, meaning that quercetin assists the transport of zinc into the cells. Quercetin has become so popular over the past 18 months that it can be difficult to get your hands on!
- Zinc: Zinc has long been known for its role in supporting the immune system and its anti-viral activity. When it comes to pathogens, one of the impacts of adequate zinc supply is the maintenance of the integrity of the respiratory mucosa, thus helping to prevent invasion by viruses.
- Vitamin D (ideally first checking Vitamin D status through serology): Vitamin D has an important modulating role in both our innate and adaptive immune systems, with a role in both evading pathogens and in supporting auto immune conditions.
Imuni Immune Defence, contains therapeutic doses of all these nutrients in one capsule, and as such is an excellent support for our immune systems to help defend against whatever potentially pathogenic organisms we may encounter. Importantly, these supplement also do not contain any animal products, artificial colours, flavours or sweeteners, genetically modified ingredients, gluten, lactose, added sugars, sulphites, nuts or soy.
We were delighted to come across an immune supplement combining all nutrients in one convenient capsule, and one that doesn’t compromise on quality.
We confidently recommend Imuni Immune Defence as an important part of your toolkit in maintaining health and well-being. You can learn more about the Imuni range via their website. Another supplement from the Imuni range we’re loving is the sleep + mind balance. Who doesn’t need a bit more of that?
