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patient handout (integrative)
Immune System Support
Integrative Therapies
Definition
The immune system regulates how well the body is able to fight infection. It consists of lymph glands and vessels, white blood cells, and other cells that guard against infectious processes. A healthy immune system is particularly important in maintaining resistance against yeast infections, parasites, bacteria, and viruses. Stress, smoking, pollution, malnourishment, nutritional deficiencies, and obesity decrease the ability of the immune system to function properly.
THE FOLLOWING SUPPLEMENTS ARE USED TO STIMULATE THE IMMUNE SYSTEM AND CAN BE TAKEN ON A LONG-TERM BASIS:
1. Vitamin C 1,000 milligrams twice a day.
2. Bioflavonoids 1,000 milligrams per day.
3. Beta-carotene 200,000 Units per day.
4. Vitamin A 25,000 Units per day.
Caution: Women who are pregnant (or may become pregnant ) should not take more than 10,000 Units per day of either Vitamin A or Beta-carotene.
5. Zinc picolinate 15 milligrams, 2 times a day.
6. Thymus extract 500 milligrams, 2 times a day.
7. A multivitamin and mineral supplement taken daily according to the product label. Choose a brand that is free of sugar and artificial ingredients.
8. Shiitake mushrooms taken in powder or capsule form, according to the manufacturer's instructions.
THE PROPER DIET FOR MAINTAINING A HEALTHY IMMUNE SYSTEM WILL INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:
1. Since sugar slows down the ability of the white blood cells to fight infections, as much as possible avoid sugar foods such as candy, cake, cookies, and soda pop; sweeteners such as honey and molasses; fruit juices, and refined carbohydrates such as white flour products.
2. Drink plenty of fluids at least 8 cups a day. Distilled, well, or spring water can be consumed daily along with herb teas and vegetable juices. If fruit juices are consumed, these should be greatly diluted.
3. Add seaweeds to the diet. Health food stores and Asian food stores usually carry several different kinds such as hijiki, arame, dulse, and nori. Consult a cookbook about preparation. Kelp is easy to use because it can be purchased as a powder and sprinkled on food as a salty condiment.
4. Be sure to get enough high-quality protein. Unless you suffer from anemia, replace red meat with fish and chicken as much as possible, and include beans, nuts, and seeds in the diet.
5. Obesity can decrease the functioning of the immune system. Weight control should be used with a focus on proper nutrition. For more information on obesity, refer to the article on that topic.
HERBS USED FOR THE IMMUNE SYSTEM:
1. Echinacea Root tincture, which is a liquid herbal extract 40 to 60 drops, 3 times a day for 4 weeks. This is used for strengthening the immune system.
2. Licorice Root tea 1 cup, 3 times a day. Use 1 teaspoon per cup of boiling water or add 1/2 teaspoon of the powdered root to sweeten a favorite herb tea. When drinking Licorice for more than 2 weeks, increase the intake of potassium-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, and molasses.
3. Golden Seal 1 capsule, 2 times a day. This herb is contraindicated in pregnancy.
4. Ginseng Root extract taken according to the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid taking commercial teas made of the leaves, which are less effective.
ADDITIONAL MEASURES FOR MAINTAINING THE IMMUNE SYSTEM INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:
1. Reduce the effects of stress through stress management and through relaxation techniques such as visualization and meditation. Counseling is also suggested. For more information, refer to the article on stress reduction.
2. Be sure to get adequate rest. Take naps as needed.
3. Get regular physical exercise. A minimum of 30 minutes 3 times a week will aid in strengthening the immune system response. If you're in a debilitated state, you may start with as little as 5 minutes a day of walking and slowly build up to longer periods. Brisk walking, swimming, tennis, and bicycling are all good forms of exercise.
Footnotes
BarShalom R, Soileau J. (eds.) Natural Health Hotline. Beaverton, OR: Integrative Medical Arts, 1991-1999.