Did you know the strength of your immune system is largely dependent on the health
of your digestive system? Read more on this topic on pages 4 and 5 of this issue.
Get a little help
Several supplements help incre immune function, including: Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) herb increases the production o fighting white blood cells. Sacred basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum)
ase
: This
f infection-
: Clinical
trials show this herb significantly the immune response to viral inf
increases
ections. Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) : Traditionally used in Chinese me dicine to reduce fever and relieve coughin g. Zinc: Studies suggest this supplemen t has potent antiviral effects. Selenium: May be useful in strengthening the immune system. Vitamin C: Research shows taking it shortens the duration and intens ity of the common cold, by enhancing im mune function and resistance to infect ion. Olive leaf (Olea europaea) : A number of studies suggest this supplement benefits immune system function.
Stress less Stress can be due to a physical cause, such as pain, or a mental or emotional cause, such as depression or a relationship breakdown. Generally speaking, your mind and body can deal with stress in the short term; however, when stress is chronic and persists
over a long period of time, the excess stress hormones circulating in your system will suppress immune function. While you may not be able to eliminate the cause of your stress, you can moderate its effects with meditation, a calming app, exercise or fun catch-ups with friends.
Danielle Marasco is a naturopath, nutritionist and hypnotherapist, at Go Vita Tuggerah, with over a decade of experience in the natural health industry. www.daniellemarasco.com.au
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ISSUE 58 • 2020
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