Category: Immune system

Stress 壓力

Stress can come from any situation or thought. Interpretation of that scenario can lead to feelings of frustration, anger or anxiety. A healthy body is able to detect and respond to stress. Prolonged exposure to stress may lead to fluctuating responses or an insensitivity / hypersensitivity to stress, which may further lead to undesirable habits and conditions such as alcoholism, temper issues and depression.

Under sudden stress, adrenal glands release cortisone, deoxyribose, adulterine and IL-6. These require A, B2, C, E, pantothenic acid and linoleic acid.

Adrenaline accelerates the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates into energy for the body to use. This causes to body to excrete amino acids, potassium and phosphorous. It also depletes magnesium in muscle tissue and reduces calcium storage. It can destroy membranes (soft protein structures) if constantly released or becomes uncontrollable. Ulcers, breathing problems and eczema can result.
Cortisol ages brain cells and builds fat around the body’s midsection.
Interleukin-6 has direct effects on most cells in the body and is associated with many disorders, including diabetes, arthritis, cancer, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s disease, periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease.

Our enzymes and bodily fluids responsible for the millions of actions our bodies undertake everyday are made from micronutrients and amino acids which are reduced by stress. With inadequate supplies, the body tries to make something similar, but which is actually a histamine, an agent which causes inflammatory responses. Histamine is useful where there is actual cell injury since it brings white blood cells and blood to the area. If histamine is produced randomly, it can be an unnecessary irritant.

Stress is regulated by the release of calcium. If there is inadequate supplies in the blood, calcium is forced from bone where 99% of it is stored. Therefore, long periods of stress can result in osteoporosis and arthritis. If that occurs, calcium is not a first priority. Vitamin C and glucosamine is. Vitamin C is needed together with amino acids to fulfil its potential.

Phosphorous comes from processed meats and foods. This mineral replaces calcium and magnesium in our bodies, leading to lower absorption of those essential minerals. If the body has inadequate magnesium, calcium gets stuck in membrane structures leading to splinters, stones and arthritis.

The body does not absorb nutrients well when under stress, which can cause a multitude of other problems. It promotes the growth of free radicals that can oxidise and damage body tissues, especially cell membranes. Stress suppresses the immune system and long term stress will increase susceptibility to illness and slow healing.

In short, stress is to be avoided as much as possible.

Possible signs and symptoms

Twitching or trembling, muscle tension, headaches, sweating, dry mouth, difficulty swallowing and abdominal pain. General fatigue, inability to sustain concentration and short tempers.

Applied nutrition

Nutrition serves to help the body respond properly to stress. It is also essential to target and reduce the source of stress, and to help interpret and discuss appropriate responses to the stress being experienced.

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Vitamin B All B vitamins are necessary for health and proper functioning of the nervous system. B5 is an anti-stress vitamin needed by the thymus gland 5x twice daily
Vitamin C Essential to adrenal gland function. Stress depletes the gland’s anti-stress hormones 5x twice daily
Calcium + magnesium Replaces minerals lost by stress. Deficiency is common in highly stressed persons and can result in anxiety, fear and even hallucinations 4x twice daily
Q10 Also includes taurine which increases energy and protects brain, heart and immune system 2x twice daily
Multivitamin + phytonutrients Supplements nutrition lost or prevented from absorption from stress As directed
Selenium E Disarms free radicals caused by stress, improves immunity 1-2x daily

Pneumonia 肺炎

Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs caused by an infection by bacteria, viruses or fungi. It can range from mild to severe depending on the type of organism causing it as well as age and underlying health.

Possible causes

Bacterial pneumonias tend to be the most common yet most serious cause of pneumonia in adults. Respiratory viruses are the most common cause of pneumonia in young children, peaking between the ages of 2 and 3. In some people, particularly the elderly and weak, bacterial pneumonia may follow influenza or even a common cold.

Many people contract pneumonia while staying in a hospital for other conditions. This tends to be more serious because the patient’s immune system is often impaired. In addition, there is a greater possibility of infection with antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Applied nutrition

Generally to reduce inflammation, kill micro-organisms and repair the lungs.

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Garlic Protects against respiratory infections and destroys harmful bacteria 3x twice daily
Multi-carotene Enhances immunity and promotes repair of soft (lung) tissue 4x twice daily
Vitamin C Improve immune response and reduce inflammation FLUSH + 5x three times daily
Protein powder Tissue repair At least 2 scoops twice daily
Vitamin B Essential for production of antibodies, formation of red blood cells and healthy mucus membranes 3x twice daily
Fish oil or primrose oil Needed to build new lung tissue and reduce inflammation. Speeds recovery and boosts immunity As directed on label
Multivitamin, mineral and phytonutrients To supply essentials such as zinc, vitamin E, etc. to balance nutritional support As directed on label

Migraines 頭疼

Migraines are a neurological disease and is the most common type of vascular headache. During an attack, the blood vessels in the brain dilate and then stimulate nerve endings nearby, causing (usually severe) pain.

Possible signs and symptoms

These attacks can last from 4 to 72 hours and are commonly accompanied by nausea. Migraines are an intense and disabling headache and can come with an upset stomach, hypersensitivity to light or sound.

Triggers

  • Different foods such as cheese, chocolate, wines or citrus fruits can cause the attacks.
  • Exercise, anxiety, stress, bright lights, loud noises, contraceptive pills and travel.
  • Some women experience attacks more frequently around the time of their menstrual periods.

Applied nutrition

Generally to reduce inflammation, stress and pain.

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Calcium + magnesium Minerals help to reduce pain and regulate muscular tone and transmit nerve impulses. Take liberally (up to 10) upon attack. Then 3x 3 times daily
Q10 Increases blood flow to the brain and improves circulation 2x twice daily
Fish oil or primrose oil Anti-inflammatory agents needed for brain, cells and for fat metabolism 2x twice daily
Vitamin B Needed for a healthy nervous system 3x twice daily
(Garlic) A potent detoxifier 3x twice daily
(Vitamin C) Helps produce anti-stress hormones and improve immunity. Helps calcium absorption 5x twice daily

 

Motion Sickness 暈船/暈車等

Overview

Motion sickness occurs when motion causes the eyes, sensory nerves and the balancing mechanism of the ear to send conflicting signals to the brain, causing a loss of equilibrium. It is usually experienced in a moving vehicle (plane, boat, car). Anxiety, genetics, overeating, poor ventilation and travelling immediately after eating. Women are affected by this condition more frequently than men are. Elderly people and children under the age of two are usually not affected.

People suffering from motion sickess experience symptoms that range from headaches to queasiness to nausea and vomiting, and such symptoms may last for days if serious. Natural remedies have been used successfully in many cases.

Applied Nutrition

Massaging the space about 3 fingers’ width from the lines that connect your hand to your arm often stops motion sickness. Do not read or do visually-focussed things while on the vehicle. Close your eyes, breathe deeply or roll the windows down and get fresh air and focus on faraway things.

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Calcium + magnesium  Acts as a nerve tonic At least 3 tablets 1 hour before the trip
 B complex Helps to relieve nausea At least 3 tabs before the trip and 3 tabs more 2 hours after the first dose

Charcoal tablets are known to be effective – take 5 tablets one hour before travel.

Fatigue 疲倦

Fatigue is generally related to mental or physical tiredness following prolonged or intense mental or physical activity/stress. Conversely, a lack of adequate exercise can also cause fatigue. Inadequate nutritional or fluid intake may also contribute to fatigue. A diet rich in a multitude of vitamins and minerals is essential. Fatigue may also result from low iron intake, possibly anaemia. Iron is also required for a healthy immune system and for energy production. Prolonged fatigue may lead to other problems, such as depression.

Recent studies have shown that as many as 7 out of 10 pre-menopausal women do not get enough iron. Women, particularly during pregnancy, teenage girls, athletes and vegetarians are most likely to be at risk from inadequate iron intake.

Applied nutrition

Do more outdoor sports to increase circulation. Exposure to activity and sunshine lets the body produce endorphins which improve mood and break the vicious cycle of chronic fatigue.

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Protein For tissue and organ repair 1-2 scoops, 
2x daily
Multivitamin + minerals + phytonutrients All nutrients are necessary in balanced amounts. Helps increase energy release at the cellular level. As indicated on packaging
Multi-carotene Powerful free radical scavengers fight to protect cells and enhance immunity. 1 tab, 2x daily
Parselinium E 2 tabs, 2x daily
B Complex Essential for normal energy levels, adrenal function and brain function. B6 aids in absorption of B12, which is a natural energy booster needed to prevent anaemia. 2 tabs, 2x daily
Iron + folic acid Needed for red blood cell formation, increasing oxygen capacity. 1 tab, 3x daily
Vitamin C + bioflavonoids Has a powerful antiviral effect and increases energy levels. 2 tabs, 3x daily
Co-enzyme Q10 Works to increase energy and protects the heart and immune system. 2 tabs, 2x daily

The common cold 着凉，伤风

The common cold is an infection of the upper respiratory tract caused by viruses. There are over 200 viruses that can cause the common cold. Most viruses strike 18 to 24 hours after they enter the body and clear up within 7 to 10 days. General good health and hygiene can reduce the risk of coming into contact with these bugs.

Once cold or flu symptoms begin, an increased intake of vitamin C, garlic, echinacea and cinnamon extract can help relieve the severity, duration and symptoms of the common cold and flu. Plenty of rest and lots of fluid and good nutrition is important with a diet rich in vegetables. Avoid raw foods at this time as the digestive system is often impaired.

It is tempting to suppress symptoms such as fever and cough with drugs. Unless it is severe, avoid symptom suppression as it interferes with the body’s natural repair rhythm and may disrupt the healing process.

Possible signs and symptoms

Nose congestion, sore throat, coughing, sneezing, fever, watery eyes, headaches, fatigue and muscular pain.

Possible causes

A compromised immune system susceptible to viral attack.

Applied nutrition

Keep hydrated with purified water. Eat ginger alone or with hot honey.

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Protein Supplies balanced amounts of nine essential amino acids for healing. 1 scoop,
2x daily
Vitamin C + bioflavonoids Fights cold viruses, an antioxidant that boosts the immune system. 5 tabs every 4 hours (if temperature is above 38.5°C: 10 tabs)
Multi-carotene Helps to clear inflamed mucus membranes and strengthens the immune system. 2 tabs daily
B Complex Heals and reduces stress. 2 tabs,
3x daily
Garlic + licorice A natural antibiotic and immune system enhancer which fights cold and flu infections. 2 tabs,
3x daily
Echinacea Helps reduce the severity and duration of the flu. 2 tabs,
3x daily
ClearGuard Helps balance histamine release and clears stuffy noses in three days or less. 3 tabs,
2x daily