The Healing Power of Food
Last Updated on Tuesday, 13 July 2010 15:56
The immune system is a complex and fantastic body system that protects us from bacteria, viruses, toxins, and other dangerous pathogens (germs). As with many other physical processes, people often take their immune system for granted – until something goes wrong with it!
Nutrient deficiencies are associated with a reduction in the ability of your immune system's T-cells to fight infectious diseases.
The healing properties of many natural foods and herbs have been well known since ancient times. Here are some tips that could help you tide over your ailments without resorting to drugs.
Piper nigrum (Black pepper)
Black Pepper is well known for its healing power. Black pepper has antioxidant properties and can stimulate the breakdown of fat cells. It thus serves some very important functions in your body, apart from spicing up bland food.
Black pepper aids in digestion and also acts as a pain reliever. It contains the active ingredient capsaicin, which has been shown to decrease blood cholesterol and triglycerides. It even has antibacterial properties – it helps to kill the bacteria in the stomach that cause ulcers. Though it works very slowly, it has long-term benefits because it boosts your immunity and help you heal naturally.
Zinc
Zinc is an essential mineral that is necessary for the functioning of over 300 different enzymes. As well as it’s involvement in carbohydrate, protein, fat and energy metabolism, it has been shown to support the immune system. If taken within 24 hours of the onset of the symptoms of flu, zinc can significantly lower the severity of the infection. Zinc plays an important role in cellular repair and replacement. The recommended dosage is 9 to 24 milligrams of elemental zinc taken every 2 hours as long as you have the symptoms1.
Because supplemental zinc may help fight infection and heal wounds, zinc status is especially important for patients with conditions such as HIV infection2.
Echinacea
Echinacea is an herb that acts as an immune-stimulant by enhancing the production and activity of white blood cells. It is also used to boost immunity in persons who suffer from recurrent infections of any kind. It contains three active ingredients: caffeic acids, alkyl amides, and polysaccharides. Standardized extract of Echinacea is available both as a capsule and in liquid form.During flu, a 300mg capsule, or 3 – 4ml of the liquid can be taken thrice daily for 7 – 10 days.
Many clinical studies demonstrate Echinacea's efficacy as an immune system stimulant. According to the authors of a 1999 meta-analysis Echinacea is effective against respiratory infections, especially if taken as soon as the first symptoms appear.
Vitamins
Vitamins A, C, B12 and E All play a vital role in boosting immunity. However, taken in excess they may cause harm. So the best way to ensure the right intake is to eat vitamin-rich foods rather than taking supplements.
Carrots, for example, which are a rich source of vitamin A, can help boost your immunity. However, sometimes supplementation is useful- Vitamin A supplements help to improve recovery after an infection and can help to boost the development of immunity among infants and young children.
Research also suggests that supplementation with Vitamin A may reverse post-operative immunosuppression as well as boosting immune responses in the elderly, persons with parasitic infections and persons with high exposure to ultraviolet light.
Citrus fruits, broccoli, kiwi fruit, strawberries, and tomatoes, are all rich in vitamin C which has antioxidant properties and can improve your resistance to infections.
Garlic
The fresh garlic that you use in your kitchen could help your body fight bacteria, viruses, protozoa and parasite infestations, and fungus. Though garlic is available in the form of capsules, it is an equally effective immune-stimulant when used as a culinary aid. Garlic contains the active ingredient allicin, which can help boost your immune system, and reduce cholesterol and blood pressure.
Ginseng
Ginseng is known to stimulate the body's defence mechanism. It is often used for reducing the incidence and complications associated with flu.
In 1999 animal study, ginseng appeared to stimulate the function of certain immune cells to help clear bacterial infection. In another human study, those receiving daily ginseng supplements prior to flu vaccination were less likely to contract the flu than those in the control group, who were administered.3
Standardised ginseng extract is easily available and the recommended dose is 1 to 3 grams a day.
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References
- (Fraker PJ, King LE, Laakko T, Vollmer TL. The dynamic link between the integrity of the immune system and zinc status. J Nutr. 2000 May;130(5S Suppl):1399S-406S).
- (Lim Y, Levy M, Bray TM. Dietary zinc alters early inflammatory responses during cutaneous wound healing in weanling CD-1 mice. J Nutr. 2004 Apr;134(4):811-6).
- (Song ZJ. Ginseng treatment improved the ability of phagocytes in blood and lungs to capture and kill bacteria. Presented at the 99th General Meeting of the American Society for Microbiology; June 1, 1999; Chicago).
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