by Paul Kramer, R.N.C.
VICE PRESIDENT, PRODUCT RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT
Today, perhaps more than any other time in recent history, people are frightened of becoming ill through a virus
or toxin that may permanently damage their body. The recent SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) virus has made
many people concerned about catching a disease that currently has no definitive cure. People are questioning how
they can stay healthy and what they can do to protect themselves from the environment we live in today.
Build a Better Immune System
Maintaining a strong immune system may be your best defense. Your immune system is a complicated system of blood
cells, organs and glands designed to protect our body from bacteria, viruses, toxins (including pollution) and
parasites that would be more than happy to live in your body.
Essential herbal extracts, vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients all play a role in strengthening the immune system.
Botanical extracts such as reishi mushroom, Siberian ginseng and licorice root have been clinically proven to increase the activity of the immune system. Studies performed by scientists in Japan have shown that both licorice root and reishi mushroom have antiviral activity and enhance the performance of the immune system. U.S researchers are studying the effects of Siberian ginseng and found that regular daily use can lead to an enhanced function of the immune system.
It is now widely accepted that vitamin A, the minerals zinc and selenium, as well as the phytonutrients lycopene
and sulforaphane also play key roles in maintaining or strengthening an immune system.
In addition, good personal hygiene is essential as most bacteria and viruses are spread through the hands via
contact with an infected person or area (door handle, elevator button, etc). In many cases, washing your hands
regularly with hot water and an antibacterial soap can prevent the transmission.
Using a natural antibacterial such as tea tree oil is a good way to disinfect your hands without the harsh
effects of alcohol.
There is no guarantee that you can avoid becoming ill from the toxins, bacteria and viruses that you come into contact with everyday. However, regular use of certain nutritional supplements, good personal hygiene and a healthy lifestyle (regular sleep and exercise) will ensure you have maximum protection.
Staying healthy in an unhealthy world is possible if we give our body the nutritional tools it needs to function
at an optimal level.
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