A strong immune system is key to a healthy body. Phyllis Balch says in her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing" that the immune system is needed to both fight off microorganisms that cause disease and to heal the body when it is in a state of disease. She says some common signs of a compromised immune system include fatigue, inflammation, allergies, slow wound healing, chronic diarrhea, colds and flus, as well as yeast and all other types of infections. Luckily, several supplements can help strengthen and support a weakened immune system.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a well known immunity-boosting supplement--and for good reason. According to Dr. Elson Hass in his book "Staying Healthy with Nutrition," Vitamin C is likely the most important of all antioxidant nutrients when it comes to immunity. He explains that high doses, between 4 and 10 grams a day, can help the body produce antibodies and support white blood cell function, both of which are essential to fighting off infections.
Zinc
Zinc is an essential mineral, and Hass says it is needed for a variety of immunity problems and that it is one of the most supportive nutrients for lowered immunity. He points to a recent double-blind study that found zinc therapy helpful in reducing both the incidence and severity of colds and flus. If you have a sore throat, he recommends sucking on 25 to 50 mg in zinc lozenges. As a therapeutic dose, he recommends a 50 to 75 mg pill per day--taken with food, or else nausea may occur.
Vitamin A
In addition to Vitamin C and zinc, Balch recommends Vitamin A and explains that it is an anti-infection vitamin that is important to the body's defense system. She explains that Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant, free radical scavenger and immune system booster.
Oregano Oil
Oregano oil, an herb otherwise referred to as oil of oregano, is another super immunity booster. Hass says it has antibiotic, antifungal, antiviral and antiparasitic properties. Homeremediesweb.com says oregano oil strengthens the immune system and is an excellent early defense against colds. It recommends taking three drops at the first sign of a cold, and continuing daily until the symptoms are gone.
Doctor
You should always check with a health care practitioner, such as your primary care doctor, before starting any new supplement regimen.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis Balch; 2005
- "Staying Healthy with Nutrition", Dr, Elson Hass; 2006
- Homeremediesweb: Oil of oregano health benefits
