Immunity

Lactoferrin, a protein found in mother’s milk, shows antiviral activity in preclinical trials. It impedes viral binding to cell membranes, while activating immune defenses.

While medical science is diligently working on the development of an effective treatment, it may be prudent to learn about some protective measures now, and to become informed concerning potential nutritional therapies.

Reishi medicinal mushroom is best known for its ability to boost immune surveillance, which is critical for the detection and elimination of emerging cancers and infectious agents. An abundance of new studies reveal how Reishi’s unique compounds target numerous pathological aging mechanisms.

A study showed that lozenges containing zinc acetate are best at curbing a cold and shortening its duration. Zinc lozenges are not meant for everyday use. Common colds are the most common human infection. Based on research published in the 1980s, many people know to start popping zinc lozenges. But not all zinc is the same. Many cold lozenges feature different forms of zinc that are not the most effective choice.

Clinical trials show that vitamin D decreases rates and severity of viral respiratory tract infections. More than 70% of Americans have either deficient or insufficient vitamin D blood levels.

Pesticides are absorbed through our air, food, and water. These chemicals can lead to neurodegeneration, cancer, and other disorders. Researchers have found that the flavonoid quercetin offers protection against some of the dangers inflicted by pesticides.

A recent review reveals that lycopene shields against environmental and food toxins. Individuals with the highest lycopene concentrations have a 37% lower mortality risk.

The amino acid derivative N-acetylcysteine protects against a broad array of environmental toxins, helps boost the body’s immune system, and confers other health-promoting benefits.

Melatonin has long been thought of as the “sleep hormone.” It regulates circadian rhythms, the body’s internal biological clock, which can improve sleep patterns. That’s important for optimal health. Inadequate sleep has a well-documented negative impact on immune health, increasing susceptibility to infectious diseases and cancer. But melatonin does much more.

NAC (N-acetyl-L-cysteine) helps prevent viruses and bacteria from adhering to the lining of the lungs. Data show that NAC reduces excess airway mucus, lowers inflammation, supports pulmonary function, and inhibits infectious colonization.

To boost the immune benefits of echinacea, researchers recommend using multiple species and parts of the plant, which are rarely found in commercial supplements.

Quercetin is naturally abundant in plant foods and as a result is highly bioavailable.Nonetheless, most people do not obtain sufficient quercetin levels through their daily diets. This is unfortunate because large-scale epidemiological studies show that sustained high intake of quercetin and related flavonoids provides substantial protection against cardiovascular disease.