Foods and Herbs That Suppress and Help Boost the Immune System

Immune system disorders such as auto immune diseases or a low white blood cell count can have a direct effect on your body. You can feel tired, sluggish, and just plain bad. Many of the foods you consume can have a direct effect on your immune system. Learning what can help and hinder your white blood cells can improve your overall well-being.

It might surprise you when you find out the foods and drinks that can weaken your system. If your joints are feeling inflamed or if you're prone to catching colds and having a hard time getting rid of them, you may want to change your eating and drinking habits. The following foods and beverages should be eliminated or at least reduced in your diet: tomatoes, sugary drinks such as coffee, mountain dew, or energy drinks, and sweet juices.

Even though a tomato's red pigment called lycopene is an antioxidant that helps prevent cancer, it is not the food to eat if you are looking to encourage immune function. If you have an autoimmune disease, tomatoes can aggravate symptoms.

When excess sugar is stored as fat in your body, it can suppress your immune system. Many sugars, including fructose, glucose, honey, and orange juice will decrease the white blood cell count. Avoid these for a stronger immune system.

There are many herbs that will help boost your immune system. You can find most of these at your local health food store.

Schisandra is a berry that contains vitamins and flavonoids to help the immune system. When used as a treatment for patients undergoing chemotherapy, it helps protect the liver and kidneys. It is available in health food stores.

Lycium berry stimulates immune function with its polysaccharides. These tasty berries are safe to eat and have no side effects.

Astragalus is an herb that restores the immune system by helping your body produce interferon. Interferon helps your body fight off infectious diseases. Astragalus is beneficial for skin wounds and infections as well.

Royal jelly, found in supplement form, can enhance immunity with its rich vitamins and collagen. Used to feed queen bees, royal jelly contains royalisin, a bacteria fighting substance.

Cordyceps is a mushroom that helps modulate immune function. You may have heard of it when Chinese Olympic runners were caught using it to help increase their endurance.

Echinacea is an herb that activates and stimulates the immune cells. When taken as a dietary supplement, it reduces the symptoms commonly associated with auto immune diseases.

When it comes to boosting your immune system, there are many options. One you will want to consider is changing your dietary habits and replacing them with healthier choices. The way you feel is very important to your quality of life and keeping yourself healthy will also help you feel better, happier, and help you to live longer.

Sources:
"Secrets of Longevity" by Dr. Maoshing Ni