Nutrition and Your Immune System

A strong immune system is important for each member of your family. The most critical factor in strong immunity is good, sound, balanced nutrition. At this time of year, all of us are exposed to scores of bacteria, viruses, and other potential infectious agents. The "Cold and Flu" season is at its peak right now. How you and your family fare through it depends entirely on how strong your resistance is to these organisms.

Microscopic war rages constantly within your body, but you are not normally aware that these battles against infection are being fought. The attackers are tiny but can be plentiful and dangerous.

Ideally, your immune system will automatically provide legions of defenders, a wonderful network of organs and special cells that are constantly working, forever fighting to keep you healthy. But sometimes your defenders are caught in a weak state, and you develop a cold, the flu, or a more serious infection.

What factors contribute to weakening of your immune system? A basic list of things to avoid include:

• physiological, psychological and emotional stresses
• poor physical and aerobic conditioning
• lack of sleep, rest and relaxation
• and especially a poor diet.

While all these factors need to be addressed, the most critical is proper nourishment.

The Value of Proper Nourishment

The following are important nutrients, crucial for keeping your immune system healthy and functioning well.

Vitamin C

Studies demonstrate that vitamin C increases the activity of specific white blood cells, the cells involved in fighting infection. It has been observed that white blood cell movement, as well as their ability to destroy bacteria, is stimulated in the presence of vitamin C. It has also been noted that virus growth is inhibited when vitamin C is present. Scientific data suggest that vitamin C does reduce the incidence of the common cold; however, the majority of the studies consistently show that it shortens the duration of colds and lessens the severity of symptoms. Vitamin C is found in many fruits and vegetables, including citrus fruits, peppers, and berries.

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 is found in many fruits and vegetables, including potatoes and bananas. It is also found in meats, grains, and nuts. Vitamin B6 is important for the formation of a smoothly running immune system.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E, is found in wheat germ, whole-grain products, vegetable oils and nuts, as well as some fruits and vegetables, such as kale and potatoes. It also helps boost the immune system functions.

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