How to Keep Optimal Immune Health

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.

Keep healthy Gut bacteria. Related Article: Healthy Gut Bacteria & Our Existence

Practically, eating foods that boost the immune system and enjoying it with plentiful hearty activity can be a cost effective solution to remain healthy.