Why is it that some people can go through an entire flu season and not even get the sniffles? How is it that some people can live with life-threatening diseases with few symptoms and others succumb early? We see people every day resist serious outbreaks of infectious diseases, while others become critically ill. The difference between staying healthy and becoming ill lies in our immune system.
For decades, man has been searching for a cure for such devastating diseases as lupus, HIV/AIDS, cancer, arthritis, the flu, even the common cold. The focus of most pharmaceutical research is to find that magic pill, that wondrous drug that will cure the ills affecting us.
Importance of the Immune System
There is sufficient evidence now that reinforces what healers already know. The immune system is the first line of defence. It is the wear and tear placed upon the immune system that allows diseases to take hold. Most often it is a lack of proper nutrition, combined with a negative mental attitude and poor lifestyle. Nutrition plays a vital role in helping to prevent illness; however, this is an area that many overlook.
Unfortunately, conventional medicine is still more about treating disease than preventing it. And there are still medical doctors who are skeptical and dismiss the idea of boosting the immune system as just another myth. But scientific investigation is proving otherwise.
“The human body has an incredible innate ability to heal itself and resist infection from bacteria, fungi and viruses,” says Dr. Douglas Lobay, author of several books on natural healing as well as a practicing naturopathic physician in Kelowna, British Columbia.
In his book Amazing Natural Medicines, Dr. Lobay talks about the importance of boosting the immune system.
Different Types of Immunity
Immunity is the body’s ability to resist illness. In addition to our basic immune system, the body is also capable of developing immunity to specific bacteria, viruses and toxins. This is called acquired immunity and there are two types: cell-mediated immunity and antibody-mediated immunity. But to function properly your body needs to be in good condition.
Dr. Lobay is quick to point that “the immune system is an exceedingly complex and responsive system that helps us to resist infection.”
Diet plays an important part in maintaining a healthy immune system, and simple changes in lifestyle can make a big difference. There are various vitamins, minerals and herbs that can aid in keeping the body in top shape.
“Manipulation of dietary factors has been shown to optimize immune response,” says Dr. Lobay. As an example, since sugar can impair all aspects of the immune function, reducing sugar intake is one small step to keeping yourself healthy.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
However, diet is not the only change you can make. Exercise is extremely important in the quest for maintaining a healthy immune system. Taking a brisk walk can ensure a healthy heart and maintain bone density. Changing the level of stress, as well as developing a happier outlook on life, are also important in keeping your immune system healthy. It is now well-document how anxiety, stress, depression, and even fears can impact the immune response.
Excessive stress, whether mental or physical, can have a devastating effect on our immune system. It can be the factor that brings the whole system to a halt. Although stress is inevitable in daily life, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can go a long way in preventing further damage when faced with big stressors, such as the death of a loved one. It is essential to realize the holistic connection between mind, body and soul in staying healthy is vital to combating illness.
Reference:
Amazing Natural Cures: A Modern and Scientific Guide to the Use of Diet, Vitamin and Botanical Medicines. Dr. Lobay, ND 1998
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