The immune system is responsible for protecting the body against
infections and disease as well as killing pathogens. This system is
comprised of several types of antibodies, proteins, organs, cells and
tissues that work together to fight and prevent disease. This is done by
attacking foreign and diseased cells and removing them from the body.
Disorders
and deficiencies in this system cause disease. Immunodeficiency can be
caused by a genetic disease or by side effects of medications or by
viruses. Autoimmune diseases come from an overactive immune system that
attacks normal tissues.
The body has B cells, T cells and
antibodies for every antigen (virus, bacteria) but only in a limited
supply. When the need arises, the cells reproduce by the millions to
fight off the bad guys!
What you eat is very important in boosting or suppressing your immune system. Here are some foods that boost your immune system.
1)
Mushrooms are low in calories and high in protein and antioxidants.
They are a probiotic, which means they promote good bacteria and fights
off bad bacteria and helps your immune system. It is well known that
mushrooms help your body in many ways including; improved blood flow,
destroying cancer cells and fighting colds during cold and flu season.
Some of the best ones to eat are shiitake, yun zhi, cordyceps, turkey
tail and reishi.
2) Garlic is one of the best foods for preventing
disease. It has been shown to increase production of white cells and
antibodies that pinpoint and attack cancer cells. It gets rid of free
radicals in the bloodstream and unclogs blood cells. A compound in
garlic called allicin has been shown to have antiviral properties that
can help prevent colds and the flu. It's also been shown to reduce yeast
infections, staph infections and detox dangerous metals from your
bloodstream.
3) Broccoli has a compound called sulforaphane that
helps fight diseases and the aging process by attacking free radicals.
It causes the body to produce phase 2 enzymes, which are one of the most
powerful anti cancer chemicals around. It's also a great source of
vitamin c, a superstar antioxidant that needs no introduction. Compounds
in broccoli are great at detoxifying, getting rid of toxic substances
in our cells.
4) Whey protein is the liquid byproduct from cheese
production. "Whey has antioxidant, antihypertensive, antitumor,
hypolipidemic, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. The amino acid
cysteine in whey converts into glutathione, a strong intracellular
antioxidant. Whey has been tested as a treatment or supportive agent for
cancer, HIV, hepatitis B, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis. It
may also be helpful in immune function disorders." (1)
5)
Blueberries are consistently ranked as best fruit for antioxidants. The
color of berry is the source of its great antioxidant power. Blueberries
have been linked to many health benefits including treating and
preventing urinary tract infections, help fight aging, help prevent
degenerative diseases like cancer, heart disease and memory loss.
Sources
(1) Whey Protein supplement health benefit and side effects by Ray Sahelian, M.D.
(1) Whey Protein supplement health benefit and side effects by Ray Sahelian, M.D.
By
N. Curtis
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