No matter what you think about “CV19,” we all need to have the strongest immune system possible. We seem to be in full swing of the flu season. Make sure to take care of your body during this time and feed your immune system the fuel it needs.
It is exciting to see that much of the research which has come out over the past several months supports the recommendations I’ve made to patients during this time. Your body is equipped with many defensive and offensive mechanisms to protect you from all kinds of microbes, and supporting these systems is your best chance of staying healthy.
Here are some ideas to help your immune system do its job:
Emotions
Emotional stress will lower immune system function. I’m not advocating this man’s world view, but his breathing technique works.
Remember, God says through the Apostle Paul in Philippians 4:6, do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9 What you have learned[e] and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you
Sleep
Lack of sleep will lower your immune system function. Optimally, you want eight hours of sleep per night and at least five hours straight without waking. If you are not sleeping well, try blacking out your bedroom. Your bedroom should be dark enough that you can’t see your hand in front of your face. The blue light from your phone, TV, computer screen or LED lights disrupt your sleep cycle. Avoid screen time after dark. If you are in front of the screen after dark invest in blue blocker sunglasses.
EMF fields from electronic devices including cell phones/cell phone chargers, TV’s, and alarm clocks can also interfere with sleep and even contribute to anxiety. Consider powering off all devices especially in your bedroom. I have recently started turning off my WiFi router at night which has helped both my wife and me to have a better sleep. Soaking in a hot bath with three pounds of Epsom salts for about 10 minutes before bed is magic. And of course, do not let your mind race. 2 Cor 10:5 We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.
Diet
Processed foods, seed oils (coconut, palm, avocado oils are ok), and most grains will lower immune system function. As you probably know, I am a big fan of low carb diets (less than 25 grams carbohydrates per day) and intermittent fasting. Eat 1-2 meals per day in a 4-6 hour time frame. No snacks in between. These strategies will boost immune system function, and for most improve sleep, mood energy levels, lower inflammation and help you lose a few pounds.
Sugar
Foods with added sugars (including fruit juice) will lower immune function by 40% for four hours.
Lymph System
The lymph system is a big part of your immune system. Movement/exercise is important to keep the lymph system fluid and working optimally. Dry brushing (available on Amazon) is another great self care technique you can easily learn. Most find it enjoyable and there are many benefits. I have included a quick video I found that shows you how to Dry Brush:
Gut Health
The balance of bacteria in your bowel is influences your immune system. A good diet (low carbohydrate/low processed foods) and stress reduction are some of the most important factors in balancing your gut flora.
Toxins
We are swimming in a sea of toxins that depress our immune system function. Look for ways to reduce toxins in your environment. Consider less toxic versions of home cleaning supplies, body care products, foods, water, bedding, etc. Another environmental toxin is mold. This is a big one. If you suspect you have mold in your house, please deal with it.
EMF
All electronics put out an electromagnetic field. They are proven to lower your immune system’s ability to defend against disease and microbes. Limit and avoid what you can. I personally use products from EMF Harmony to help neutralize the harmful effects electronics, smart watches, cellphones, etc. have on my family. I use EMF Harmony to help protect my family from these frequencies.
Air, Light, and Grounding
Get out of the house and open windows when you can. Stagnant air puts stress on your immune system. Sunlight is able to destroy microbes and viruses. 20 minutes of sunlight in the summer produces 20,000 units of vitamin D. Sunlight and fresh air are helpful for sleep and mood as well. Grounding is another technique that helps to recharge your body with beneficial negative ions, improve circulation and reduce inflation. Simply walk bare foot on the grass or beach for 20 minutes per day.
Deficiencies
Vitamins and minerals are essential to immune system function. Vitamin A, C, D, E, Calcium, Iron, Iodine, Selenium, and Zinc deficiencies will lower immune system function.
Immune system supplements in order of importance:
Vitamin D3 – natural source vitamin D3 is very important for immune function. Most people have low levels of D3 and very few have optimal levels. I am recommending a maintenance dose of 6000units per day.
Zinc – Zinc is deficient in much of the population. The older you are the harder it is to absorb the zinc in your food. When zinc enters your cell it will protect against viruses including the flu and colds including the Corona Family of viruses.
Vitamin A – Fermented Cod Liver Oil/Butter Oil – Cod Liver Oil, unlike plant derived beta carotene, is a true source of vitamin A. Vitamin A in its true form, is described as an anti infective factor. It is a very potent protector of the lining of the sinuses, throat and lungs. Concentrated Butter Oil is a natural source of Vitamin K2 which balances out vitamin D3. The pigments in Fermented Cod liver oil have other immune system components. Real butter and beef liver are good sources of vitamin A.
Iodine – is a potent antimicrobial and is needed in proper quantities to help the immune system do its job.
Arabinogalactan – Arabinogalactan is one of the active immune system modulators in the herb echinacea. It works by blocking the attachment of viruses to cell walls so the virus can’t replicate. You can get a much higher concentration of arabinogalactan from supplements made from the larch tree for a much lower cost.
If you have any questions, chat with us here. If you would like to purchase any immune strengthening supplements, call our office or visit our online store.