Every human being is aware of the fact that our immune
system provides the first line of defense against a wide array of
deadly diseases causes by different pathogens, viruses and bacteria. But many
people take it for granted and do not do much to keep it at optimum levels
where it must be throughout our lives.
Functions of immune system
Our body’s immune system has the capacity to remember the
disease agents it has encountered and produce effective secretions that help to
defend body from recurrent attacks of the same disease agents. Our immune
system as a stronger communication system to send an immediate response to the
emergency part of our brain that acts according to the severity of the disease.
Activated cells of the immune system start producing the chemicals that
activate the required immune cells and send them to the site of attacks and for
simultaneously controlling the growth.
Some important natural foods to boost immune health
It is useful to use natural remedies, foods and exercise
to boost your immune system rather than buying chemical product from local
pharmacy. The artificial chemical compounds that you bring from the pharmacy
only suppress the symptoms and do not heal completely.
Diet plays an important role in boosting one’s immune system
because we get most of the essential nutrients from the food that we eat. Sugar
is the worst food and consuming sugar in any form is not good for your immune
system. All processed foods and drinks should be avoided as they are high in
sugar. Include organic fruits and vegetables, in your diet to get best supply
essential nutrients.
A research was performed at the University of Cambridge and the result was published in
the journal cell, they found that compounds present in green
vegetables from
bok choy to broccoli are the source of chemical signal that is required to
activate a fully functioning immune system. You can protect yourself and your
family from different health issues such as common cold and influenza,
autoimmune diseases and some cancers by including green vegetable in daily diet.
Echinacea is a natural herb that is believed
to boost the immune system naturally.
A few other herbs and supplements which may help in this
regard are chamomile,
Siberian ginseng, wild indigo, goldenseal, stinging nettle, rosehip, rosemary,
peppermint and thuja.
Herbs such as dandelion and milk thistle are
tonics that help detoxify and strengthen the liver.
Vitamin D3, vitamin C and zinc are
also extremely powerful immune system boosters.
Onions, horseradish and garlic are also excellent food that can
be used to enhance the natural body immunity.
Garlic: Garlic is a natural herb that can be eaten raw or cooked. Garlic has
been used since ages to prevent different types of inflammation. In a recent
study conducted by Dr. Ellen Tattelman, an assistant professor at the Albert
Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University, New York , it was reconfirmed that garlic
indeed has cardiovascular, anti-microbial and antineoplastic properties.
Ginseng: ginseng is an important herb that possesses
anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. Clinical research studies have
shown that it may improve immune and psychological functions as well as
conditions related to diabetes.
Ginger - This herb is found to be an excellent alternative against
taking anti-biotic and helps to reduce inflammation, cardiovascular conditions,
blood clots and cholesterol. In a study, researchers found that animal subjects
given ginger extracts had a significant reduction in cholesterol and blood
clotting qualities. Moreover, studies have also shown that it also inhibit the
behaviour of genes connected with inflammation.
Turmeric- The main ingredient of this natural herb is curcumin
which has excellent antioxidant properties. It also has antibacterial,
anti-inflammatory and stomach soothing benefits. It reduces inflammation by
stimulating the adrenal glands to increase the hormone that lessens
inflammation. Animal studies on this herb have revealed
that turmeric protects the liver from the adverse effects of alcohol
and certain toxins. Turmeric also aids in digestive problems as it stimulates
the flow of bile.
Gingko Biloba- Gingko biloba's leaves contain antioxidant compounds called
bilobalides and ginkgolides that protect the body from damage caused
by free radicals. Moreover, it has also been found to protect against
radiation. In a study using animal subjects, ginkgo was demonstrated to have
protected the test subjects against radiation poisoning. The latest research
also suggests that extracts of this herb can neutralize oxidizing agents and
free radicals caused in the cells due to radiation, thus preventing cell death.
Astragalus – This herb is mainly found in china and it stimulates
the immune system and aids in digestion and adrenal gland functions. It is also
a diuretic. The active ingredients present in this herb include
polysaccharides, saponins and flavonoids. It has also been taken to combat the
common cold and flu.
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Practically, eating foods that boost the
immune system and enjoying it with plentiful hearty activity can
be a cost effective solution to remain healthy.