What is Immunity?
*the ability of an organism to resist a particular infection or toxin by the action of specific antibodies or sensitized white blood cells.
“immunity to typhoid seems to have increased spontaneously”
OR
*protection or exemption from something, especially an obligation or penalty.
“the rebels were given immunity from prosecution”
Key Elements that can Deplete Our Immune System

Stress
Environmental; Physical & Psychological.

Emotions
Loneliness; depression & grief

Activity
Sedentary lifestyles or TOO much exercise

Bad Habits
Nicotine; alcohol & bad sleeping habits

Diet
Poor nutrition reduces the essential vitamins & minerals, proteins, fats & carbohydrate ratios and compromises GUT Health.
Immune Boosting Supplements

Vitamin C
Supports the function of various immune cells and enhances their ability to protect against infection; Supplementing with vitamin C has been shown to reduce the duration and severity of upper respiratory tract infections.

Vitamin D
Enhances the pathogen fighting effects of monocytes and macrophages (white blood cells that are important parts of your immune defense) and decreases inflammation, which helps promote immune response

Zinc
is needed for immune cell development and communication and plays an important role in reducing the inflammatory response.

Elderberry
Extract demonstrates potent antibacterial and antiviral potential against bacterial pathogens responsible for upper respiratory tract infections and strains of influenza virus. It enhances the immune system response and may help shorten the duration and severity of colds, as well as reduce symptoms related to viral infections.

Medical Mushrooms
Have been used since ancient times to prevent and treat infection and disease. Many types of medicinal mushrooms have been studied for their immune-boosting potential & supplementing with specific types of medicinal mushrooms may enhance immune health –Reishi& Shiitake.

L-Lysine
An essential amino acid& building block of proteins has many benefits that range from preventing cold sores to reducing anxiety and promoting wound healing.

Astragalus
is a herb commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Research suggests that its extract may significantly improve immune-related responses.

Selenium
is a mineral that’s essential for immune health, selenium supplements may enhance antiviral defence against influenza strains, including H1N1

Vitamin B Complex
Including B12 and B6, are important for healthy immune response.

Curcumin
Is the main active compound in turmeric. It has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, and may help improve immune function.

Echinacea
Is a genus of plants in the daisy family. Certain species have been shown to improve immune health and may have antiviral effects against several respiratory viruses, including respiratory syncytial virus and rhinoviruses.

Propolis
Is a resin-like material produced by honeybees for use as a sealant in hives. Though it has impressive immune-enhancing effects and may have antiviral properties as well.
Next week we will continue with the Immunity topic.
We will discuss Immune Boosting Super foods that can protect You & Your Family.
Visit us regularly for the latest Health-related topics.
STAY HOME, STAY SAFE
Sr Bridget Spargo