Why is it that the ‘big chill’ of winter brings along with it more sniffles, coughs, allergies and flu’s? What we do know is that our immune function is truly ‘wholistic’, as evidenced by its close involvement with nutritional & environmental factors, our other body systems, and the mind.
Stressful circumstances, lack of sleep and poor nutrition have a powerful impact on our immune function, leaving us more susceptible to infection. Some dietary factors which depress immune function include nutritional deficiencies, consumption of foods we are allergic to and high sugar diets. Intake of refined sugars (eg. sweets, honey and bottled fruit juices) has been shown to depress immune cell function by 50% for up to 3 hours after consumption!
Luckily for us, there is a great deal we can do to offset these negative impacts of the interesting world that surrounds us. Supporting the immune system is critical to good health, and the best naturopathic approach is a comprehensive plan involving lifestyle, stress management, exercise, diet, supplements and herbs.
Factors associated with optimum immune activity include eating regular meals, choosing a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables daily; combining grains, raw nuts, legumes, seeds and cold water fish to ensure adequate protein; sleeping 7 hours per night; and not smoking. A large amount of research shows that garlic has immune enhancing properties and is antiviral, even at one clove per day! A daily fresh vegetable juice (eg. carrot, celery, ginger, parsley, beets, apple + lemon) is a wonderful supplement to a basic good diet, adding vitamins A, C, minerals and antioxidants.
In addition, a positive mental attitude; laughter; a regular exercise and relaxation program; and a high potency vitamin and mineral supplement are recommended. Taking these measures will boost your immune function and your vitality during the chilly winter months, highlighting the fact that we do have some choices with our health!
Tabitha McIntosh has a Bachelor of Medical Science, and is a Naturopathic Nutritionist. She is currently completing her Advanced Diploma in Naturopathy at Nature Care College and is delighted to be involved with BodyMindLife.