As we creep into the winter months, I wanted to share with you some fantastic ways you can support and strengthen your immune system when you do get sick.
This really should be in everyone's immune-boosting cupboard. It is essential to know that no virus, bacteria or other microorganisms can survive in an iodine-rich environment. We see iodine applied during surgeries and on cuts and scrapes; it truly is a miraculous defence against microorganisms.
Not only does iodine act as an anti-microbial, but it also supports one of your most essential glands, the thyroid. This butterfly-shaped gland releases vital hormones for growth, metabolism and development. One of the most unsung roles of the thyroid is immune support.
Supplementation is essential as soil quality varies. Traditionally we would get iodine from foods grown in iodine-rich soil, but for many reasons, our soil is nutrient-depleted. Iodized table salt is not a good option as it contains other chemicals.
Our Nascent Iodine is pre-converted into the bio-identical form that the thyroid
will produce under healthy circumstances. This is only achieved by using a patented electromagnetic process that allows the iodine to work far more efficiently and effectively within the body.Â
ZINC
Zinc helps your body grow new white blood cells that hunt down harmful organisms. Zinc also acts as a powerful antioxidant to help reduce free radical damage in the body. Adding quercitin to your immune protocol can help as it acts as a zinc ionophore to improve zinc absorption into cells.
VITAMIN C
Probably the most expected health aid on this list but for a good reason. Vitamin C strengthens and supports your immune system and normal development and growth. If you get a cold and it just won't go away, chances are you're not consuming enough Vitamin C. You can take up to 2,000mg four times a day.
PROBIOTICS
This is an unlikely addition to the list as we associate probiotics such as kombucha, sauerkraut, etc, with gut health, but the trillions of microorganisms in your gut are very much involved in your immune health. Remember, 70% of your immune system is in your gut, so having healthy populations of the correct bugs is essential for immune defences. Visit your local health food store for probiotics and talk with the staff.
VITAMIN D
Vitamin D deficiency is directly linked to poor immune system function. Allowing the sunlight to hit your body is essential every day, especially within 1 hour of waking up, but a supplement is a good idea.
OTHER TIPS
SLEEP
Getting good quality sleep is one of the best things you can do for your health. It provides your entire body with a reset, which can reduce stress and improve your immune function.
If you have poor sleep one of the first things to go will be your immune health. Your body relies on sleep to prepare for the next day; if your sleep is poor, you will become more open to pathogens taking you down.
STRESS
Stress is a normal part of being a human; it is part of our sympathetic, Fight or Flight nervous system. This sympathetic nervous system is only designed to be engaged for 2-3 minutes at a time, not hours, days, weeks or even months!
The more stressed we are, the weaker our immune system becomes.
We must be conscious of how stressed we are and take measures to help reduce the stress load.
These include good nutrition, supplementation, sleep, movement and practices such as yoga and meditation.
Stay safe this winter!
Simon Brazier. Dip HN, NNCP
simon@truehope.com
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