Tools to Protect You from Colds and the Flu
by Rasa Lila, ND
Knowledge: Understanding the Immune System and Disease Process
In order to stay healthy, it is important to first understand how you get sick. Though many people think it is obvious that you get the germ (bacteria) from a sick person, this is not entirely true. Why is it, then, that everyone exposed to the sick person does not get ill? Why are some people susceptible while others are not? If your immune system is strong, you can fight off whatever comes your way and remain healthy.
The immune system is a complex mechanism designed to rid the body of foreign invaders. Infectious agents are also called pathogens or antigens including bacteria, viruses, parasites, yeast, as well as environmental toxins in the air, water, and food. When the immune system is not functioning properly, disease occurs.
The immune system is made up of cells and organs that require proper nutrition and care to function properly. The thymus gland in the neck is considered the master organ of the immune system. It functions in maturing T lymphocytes (T cells), which help rid the body of bacteria, viruses, parasites, fungi, and yeast. The thymus gland is susceptible to free radical damage. Cigarette smoke, BBQ smoke, radiation, sun exposure, chemicals, pesticides, herbicides, trans-fatty acids, heavy metals, pollution, and alcohol are all sources of free radicals from the environment. Therefore, the thymus requires antioxidant nutrition to rid the body of free radicals. Antioxidants include vitamins A, C, and E. Other antioxidants are selenium, carotenoids, lycopene, reduced glutathione, quercitin, and phytochemicals found in fruits and vegetables. Sources of these phytochemicals are found in strawberries, raspberries, grapes, plums, turnips, cabbage, kale, broccoli, brussel sprouts, garlic, and onions—to name a few. Also, green tea is high in antioxidants.
T cells have signaling properties that allow them to communicate with B cells. B cells form antibodies, proteins specific to antigens or infectious agents. The antibody binding with the antigen creates the inflammatory response. Chemicals and cells of the body rush to the area to aid in walling off the infectious agent and destroying it. Due to this process, the body temperature increases and there is swelling, redness, and tenderness in the area. If you do get sick with a fever, it is a good idea not to suppress it with medication, as the fever is the body’s natural defense against infection. There are other beneficial ways to support the body in ridding infection discussed later.
The immune system also includes the lymphatic system, which is a chain of small pouches that run alongside the organs and blood vessels. These pouches carry immune complexes (antibodies bound to antigens), toxins, and waste products out of the tissues. You can help stimulate the lymphatic system in several ways. One is to exercise. The movement of the muscles squeezes the pouches. Another simple technique is to get a loofa brush and lightly rub the skin in a circular motion before showering each day. Begin from the extremities and move toward the heart. The spleen is considered the largest lymphatic organ, as it is responsible for making lymphocytes. You can protect your spleen by not eating sugar.
The digestive system and lungs also play an important role in your body’s defense mechanism. They are barriers to pathogenic substances entering from outside the body. That is why they contain mucus, a protective layer containing secretory IgA antibodies. Peyer’s patches in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract contain T cells and IgAs to destroy pathogens before they enter the body. Within the GI system exists an ecosystem of beneficial microorganisms which help to digest our food for proper absorption. They also function to compete against pathogenic organisms. Antibiotics kill these beneficial organisms in the gut, making you susceptible to further infection. You can help keep these organism healthy by eating fiber and yogurt which contains active cultures in it. You can also supplement with probiotics between meals.
Problems
People in need of an immune-enhancing program may experience some of the following symptoms: fatigue, swollen glands, sore throat, frequent colds, stuffy or runny nose, allergies, inflammation, vaginal yeast infections, slow wound healing, or chronic diarrhea. Contributing factors may include tobacco and alcohol intake, exposure to toxic chemicals at home or at work, mercury amalgam fillings, poor thyroid function, emotional stress, sedentary lifestyle, poor nutrition including high amounts of refined carbohydrates and trans-fatty acids, and inadequate sleep.
Solutions
You can choose a lifestyle that builds a healthy immune system. Get sufficient sleep, exercise, and proper nutrition; have high water intake and low stress; avoid toxic and harmful substances; and hold a positive attitude. This may require counseling or a supportive community. Meditation, yoga, biofeedback, and deep-breathing exercises can help reduce stress and increase your energy.
Nutrients that can enhance your immune function include: a multivitamin/mineral supplement; vitamins C, A, and E; zinc; selenium; and probiotics. Glandular extracts of thymus or adrenal can also be beneficial. A detoxification program rids the body of harmful substances so the body can focus on new, incoming pathogens. Some effective botanicals include echinacea, goldenseal, astragalus, elderberry, garlic, ginger, and Chinese formulas.
Other naturopathic therapies include physical manipulation of the spine for proper organ innervation and function, acupuncture, homeopathy, and hydrotherapy. A simple hydrotherapy technique is called wet socks. Take a pair of cotton socks, soak them in ice water and ring them out. Before bed, put on the wet socks and cover them with another pair of dry, wool socks. In the morning, the cotton socks should be dry and you should feel stronger. This technique stimulates circulation and the immune system. Do not do if you are extremely cold or weak already.
One of the best cures is rest and water. Water can "wash away" pathogenic organisms from the body. Bacteria stick in the mucus and multiply there. Water makes it more fluid so they cannot reproduce, and you do not get sick.
Don’t let those germs get you down this season. Take control of your health and enjoy life everyday. For more information or for a personal consult, call your local naturopathic physician.
Rasa Lila has a BA in Biology from Colorado College in Colorado Springs and recently graduated with an ND from the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Phoenix, Arizona.