HEALTH WISE
(12/12/2008) By Julie Sergel

Be Strong and Fight the Elements!

With winter visiting early and packing a sturdy punch, most of us missed the transition from fall to winter. We went from cool, damp and somewhat chilly to Iceberg Central-- practically over night. So let’s make sure we don’t get similarly sideswiped with colds, the flu and all things winter.
Chinese herbalists tout mushrooms as most beneficial for the immune system—but not the grocery store “button” variety. We’re talking the likes of Reishi, Maitake, or Shiitake. Extracts make consumption more accessible and can be purchased for supplementation.

Probiotics. The friendly bacteria found in the gut, or intestinal tract, are marvelous in increasing immune virility. Acidophilus, bifidolphilus, and an assortment of other strains are available to re-colonize any deficiencies due to antibiotic use, high sugar diet, or other factors that leave you defenseless.

Astragalus. Superb for stress related weakness. This herb increases immunity, manufactures anticancer cells in the body, stimulates T-helper cell activity, acts as an antioxidant, protects the liver from toxins, and boosts energy! (Do not take if you have a fever, as it will exacerbate the condition.)

Aloe Vera. Provides rich, lush nourishment (like enzymes, vitamins, and minerals) for the immune system—in essence, the “on” switch.

Garlic. Also known as “the stinking rose” or my own take-- “poor man’s prosperity” in that, it’s one of the most powerful entities on the planet and it’s dirt cheap. Fresh cloves are best—and 1-2 daily are recommended. Here’s what it does: acidophilus growth stimulant, antibacterial agent, antifungal agent, antioxidant and anti-aging agent, anti-radiation treatment, anti-stress agent, anti-tumor agent, antiviral agent, heavy metal chelation agent, liver protectant, and need I say—immune system enhancer.

Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) are essential ( omega-3s: marine fish, fish oil, flaxseed oil). Help control viral infection, reduce blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, lower risk of heart attack, stroke, and hardening of arteries; improve psoriasis, lower prostaglandins—helping to prevent breast cancer; reduce severity of migraine headaches; improve brain and glandular function, and are helpful for all forms or arthritis, including rheumatoid.

Zinc. Immune booster and healer of wounds. It also protects the liver. Make sure to take no more than 100 milligrams per day, as higher levels may prove to depress immunity.

Vitamin C. Key nutrient for the immune system! Vitamin C helps form adrenal hormones and lymphocytes, so it’s bad news for bacteria and viruses. Bioflavanoids are plant substances that increase absorption and function of Vitamin C, so be on the lookout for supplements that have both.

Vitamin E. High antioxidant grade vitamin that--along with vitamins A and C, and the mineral Selenium--arms the body with a stout defense. I like to think of it as “liquid gold.” Make sure to stay away from synthetic versions (dl-alpha-tocopherol) and instead opt for the natural form ([no “l”] d-alpha tocopherol).

Coenzyme Q10. The “superstar of supplements.” This antioxidant has an antibacterial, anti-tumor, and antiviral profile and should be taken by anyone who can afford to on a regular basis. Really, it commands a high price, but worth each dollar. Once we hit age 50, our body’s ability to make or store Co Q10 declines. Grasping the properties (found in high concentrations in the heart muscle) and the limited availability (present in fatty fish, organ meats) it would be wise for anyone to splurge on this supplement.

Until next week, stay well and stop by Nature’s Remedy to stock up an arsenal to fight the elements. Nature’s Remedy is located at 18 Monroe Street, Ellicottville, NY 14731. Or, call us at 716-699-HERB (4372)