Western medicine combats disease using various tools, including drugs, surgery, radiation and other modalities. Optimal health, however, can be achieved by building and maintaining a healthy and strong immune system. Your immune system helps fend off harmful microorganisms and helps stimulate healing throughout your body. If your immune system becomes weak, you become vulnerable to a host of potential problems, some of which may be fatal. You can take supplements to improve your immune system, but discuss it with your physician to find out which options are best for you.
Immune System Disorders
There are many factors that challenge the health of your immune system or cause immune dysfunction. Chemicals found in consumer products, the over-prescribing of certain drugs, food preservatives, environmental toxins and increased stress in your daily life can all contribute to a weakened immune system or immune system disorders. Some of the most common causes of immune system problems, reports the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, include infections such as influenza, mononucleosis and measles. Smoking, poor diet and surgery can also weaken your immune system.
Natural Supplements
There are many natural supplements that may help enhance your immune system function. In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," nutrition expert Phyllis Balch lists numerous natural supplements that may be beneficial for improving immune function, including acidophilus, acetyl-L-carnitine, coenzyme Q10, essential fatty acids, garlic, glutathione, kelp, manganese, proteolytic enzymes, quercetin, pycnogenol, goldenseal, selenium, squalene, St. John's wort, superoxide dismutase, taurine, vitamin A, vitamin B complex, vitamin C, vitamin E and zinc.
An Important Supplement
Essential fatty acids are one of the most important supplements for enhancing your immune function. Essential fatty acids, reports the Linus Pauling Institute, include both alpha-linolenic acid and linoleic acid, and are considered essential fatty acids because they cannot be manufactured by your body. In other words, you need to get these substances from food sources or dietary supplements. Essential fatty acids are necessary for a healthy immune system. Talk to your health care provider about proper dosage for this important natural supplement.
Suggestions
If you frequently develops colds, flu and other conditions associated with a weakened immune system, schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss the factors that may be compromising your immune system. After you have established your list of factors, and with the guidance of your doctor, take the necessary steps to correct them. A poor diet, prolonged high stress levels and obesity are three of the most common reasons for impaired immunity.
References
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease: Immune System
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- Linus Pauling Institute: Essential Fatty Acids
