‘Recent health research states that the immune system is one of the single most important factors to maintain excellent health and to help avoid disease.’
~ Susan Alexander Naturopath & Nutritional Therapist BA (Hons), ND, dipNT, RYT(R), mBANT, mCNHC
Our immune system helps defend the body against viruses and bacteria. In addition, it can help reduce and manage histamine reactions and inflammation from allergies, and can even help with breakouts and skin issues. A well-functioning immune system can improve overall health and can help with after effects of illness as well.
Many of us take multivitamins, but might forget about supporting our immune system. Some ingredients, like echinacea, can overstimulate the immune system (and is not advised for children under 12 or to take on an ongoing basis). However, there are a number of natural ingredients with studies behind their use for immune health which are not usually found in a regular diet or multivitamin which help modulate and strengthen the immune system (but do not stimulate it, which can run it down) including bee propolis (which has natural antibiotic & antiviral properties), elderberry, olive leaf, reishi mushrooms and beta glucans. All of these can be found in Bee prepared immune supplements.
There are also foods which can help immunity & a few to avoid. Studies show a poor diet, along with a lack of sleep and high cortisol levels associated with stress & anxiety can weaken the immune system. Stress may have a direct suppressive effect on the immune system, and can affect our digestion and absorption of nutrients according to nutritionist Shona Wilkinson.
5 Nutritionists’ Tips to Reinforce Your Immune System
1) Reduce intake of sugar, refined carbohydrates and alcohol.
Sugar and refined carbohydrates and alcohol (which turn into sugar in the body) tax the immune system by feeding bacterial growth and contributing to inflammation in the body. By consuming less of these things, your immune system can more efficiently focus on bacteria and virus cell invaders to ward off illnesses.
2) Fine tune your diet.
Eating well results in improved immune function. Shona suggests eating foods rich in vitamin C and bioflavonoids: dark-coloured berries such as blueberries or blackberries, dark leafy greens such as kale and spinach, red fruits and vegetables such as cherries, strawberries and red peppers and orange vegetables such as carrots and sweet potato. Zinc is another particularly essential nutrient: zinc-rich foods include pumpkin seeds, nuts, oysters, fish and other seafood, lean meats and whole grains. These foods help support the body’s natural defences against viral and bacterial infections.
3) Take natural immune supporting supplements.
There are a number of natural ingredients with studies behind their use for immune system health which are not usually found in a regular diet or multivitamin which help modulate and strengthen the immune system (but do not stimulate it which can run it down) including bee propolis (which has natural anti-biotic & antiviral properties), elderberry, olive leaf, reishi mushrooms and beta glucans, all of which can be found in Bee prepared immune supplements which have natural antibiotic and antiviral actions. They are suitable for most ages and can be taken daily. Other helpful supplements are probiotics, zinc and Vitamin D
4) Sleep more and stress less.
Lack of sleep and recovery time can reduce the body’s immune function and immune cell production. Keep your immune system fighting fit by getting 8 hours sleep each night. Turn off devices early and try meditation before bed if you have trouble nodding off. Bee rested & Bee calm natural supplements may help. Reduce stress by getting sufficient exercise, ensuring you have plenty of laughs (it’s shown to reduce anxiety) and by reading- a Sussex University showed reading a book you enjoy can reduce stress by up to 68%! End the day by focusing on the good in your life – there is a huge amount of scientific evidence that shows that gratitude can ease anxiety and stress and can help you sleep more soundly.
By Sarah Orecchia, Founder of Unbeelievable Health, Nutritionist Shona Wilkinson and Erin McCann NT mBANT.
BEETROOT, APPLE AND GINGER IMMUNE SUPPORT JUICE
Ingredients:
(Serves 2)
3 apples, cored & chopped
2 cooked beetroot, skins removed and chopped
1-2 inch of ginger, peeled and minced (depending on taste)
Juice ½ lime or lemon
1.5 tsp – 1 tbsp raw honey
2 cups water
Contents of 4 capsules of Bee Prepared daily immune supplements (throw out capsule shells)
Directions:
Place ingredients into a blender or Nutribullet and blitz until completely smooth. Stop to taste and adjust sweetness / spice as desired. Pour into glasses and serve.
