Immune System - General
The immune system fights off the bacteria, viruses, microbes, toxins, fungi, and parasites that are constantly trying to invade the body. When the immune system is not working at its full capacity, these invaders are able to infect the body and cause illness. Nutritional deficiencies, sleep deprivation, stress, and consumption of alcohol and cigarettes can all impair the immune system of an otherwise healthy person.
Nutritionally, the best thing you can do to help your immune system fight off illness is to avoid sugar. Sugar suppresses the immune system and prevents vitamin C, a known immune booster, from being absorbed into cells. Sugar's effect on the immune system can last for up to 5 hours.
Beneficial Foods
| Black Olives | Stimulate the immune system. |
| Celery | Contains coumarins, which enhance activity of the white blood cells that eliminate cancer and other potentially harmful cells. |
| Garlic | Boosts the immune system when eaten crushed. Most effective when eaten raw and crushed. |
| Ginger | Promotes healthy sweating, which can help detoxify the body when sick, and kill off bacteria, fungus, and microorganisms on the skin. |
| Goji Berries/Wolfberries | Strengthen the immune system. |
| Hemp | Strengthens the immune system. |
| Leafy Greens - General | Provide essential nutrients to the endocrine system and make the body more alkaline, thereby strengthening immunity. |
| Maca | Strengthens the immune system. Increases resistance to disease. |
| Nettles | Contain high levels of plant sterols, which strengthen the immune system. |
Beneficial Nutrients
| Copper | Stimulates the immune system to fight infections and repair injured tissues. Helps to neutralize "free-radicals" which damage cells. |
| Fiber | Strengthens the immune system. |
| Omega-9 Fatty Acids | Improves immune function. |
| Selenium | A deficiency can impair the immune system. |
| Sulfur | Promotes probiotic (good bacteria) growth and discourages parasites. |
| Vitamin A | Strengthens the immune system. Shortens the duration of illnesses. Fights cancer. |
| Vitamin C | Supports and strengthens the immune system. Protects against pollutants, including second-hand smoke. |
| Vitamin E | Improves immune function and helps ward off many different types of diseases. |