IMMUNE SUPPORT: A FOUR FACTOR APPROACH

IMMUNE SUPPORT:

A FOURFACTOR APPROACH

By Nikki Temkin

Functional Health and Wellness Coach Nikki Temkin shares tips and advice for how you can support your immune system by focusing on four key aspects: supplementation, nutrition, stress management and sleep.

Protecting and boosting immune health has been more important than ever over the past few months, and will no doubt continue to be a priority for us all for some time to come.

While it’s true that you can’t control the trajectory of a virus, you can take steps to control your internal environment through what you choose to put into your body, what you expose yourself to, and the lifestyle you lead.

Strengthening immunity requires a multifaceted approach that will improve its response and reduce your susceptibility to illness.

VITAMINS & SUPPLEMENTS

Even with a healthy, well-balanced diet, supplements are still recommended for maximum support. The following are suggested for immune support:

Vitamin C

Contributes to immune defence by supporting various cellular functions of the immune system

Vitamin D

Reduces viral growth and helps to prevent upper respiratory infections

For maximum absorption, take with a large meal, and increase the dosage in winter when there is less sunlight.

Vitamin A

Acts as an anti-inflammatory, helps to enhance immune function, and supports the lining of the respiratory tract

Vitamin A also protects the integrity of the body’s mucus membranes (such as those in the gut and lungs), making it harder for infections to take hold.

Zinc

Possesses strong antiviral properties For maximum efficacy, take after a large meal

N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)

Promotes the production of glutathione, a potent antioxidant that supports immune function

Probiotics & Prebiotics

Create a healthy gut microbiome that supports and stimulates the immune system.

Elderberry Extract

Packed with vitamin C, dietary fibre and antioxidants

Elderberry is most effective when used preventatively. Try to find an extract that has been produced through ultra-filtration.

Curcumin

A set of flavonoids found in turmeric that can help to reduce inflammation and decrease viral activity

Melatonin

Made by the pineal gland at the base of the brain, this hormone supports antiviral immunity, promotes restful sleep and reduces inflammation. You will need a prescription for this!

Medicinal Mushrooms

Medicinal mushrooms support the immune system thanks to their antioxidant, antiinflammatory and antiviral properties. Try turkey tail and reishi for protection against infection.

Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG)

This compound is present in high quantities in green tea, and helps to reduce inflammation and enhance immune functionality.

Liquorice Root

This is one of the fundamental herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and works to reduce viral growth.

Resveratrol

A polyphenol found in red grapes that can help to decrease inflammation

Beta-Glucans

Beta-glucans are anti-inflammatory, and help to enhance immune function. They are especially beneficial for those with viral upper respiratory tract infections

You can also try:

*Omega 3 *Glutathione *Alpha-lipoic acid *Echinacea *Astralagus

Note:

It is important to consult your doctor or healthcare provider before taking any kind of vitamin, mineral, mushroom or supplement.

The appropriate dosage will be different for everyone, and is affected by factors such as gender, weight, pre-existing conditions, pregnancy and any medication that you may be taking (such as birth control, antidepressants, antibiotics, etc.). Be sure to contact your healthcare provider to find out exactly what dosage you should be taking.

SA’s leading health retailer, Wellness Warehouse offers everything you need to live life well under one roof. Visit one of their 37 stores (and growing) nationwide or shop online to stock up on quality health supplements, organic and natural beauty products, real foods, eco home products and natural baby care, all offered with personal service and a 360° approach to health. www.wellnesswarehouse.com