HUMED Natural Medicine Clinic

Immunity and our Immune System

Immunity is critical to good health. The immune system is an integrated network of cells that protect our body in times of infection. The winter months are especially hard on the immune system as threats such as stress, viruses, and bacteria increase. Added to these threats is the decrease in  light and/or sunshine. The immune system struggles to survive against these external threats all the while protecting its organism.

Our blood contains both red cells, and white cells. The white cells are the immune cells. One type of white blood cells is the lymphocytes born in the marrow of the long bones of the body. As lymphocytes mature, they become B-cells and T-cells spreading throughout the body via the blood into the lymph and thymus. Both cells fight off foreign invaders and help keep the body healthy and strong.They must be nourished in order to maintain their proliferation.

Much has been written on improving our immuntiy through diet, supplements, exercise, and emotional and spiritual well-being. Vitamin E, C, Zinc, Selenium, COQ10, and a more plant-based diet are all important to promoting a strong immune system. Plants contain phytonutrients that have the ability to enhance the body's self-protective powers specifically, two constituents known as sterols and sterolins. A brisk 20-minute walk each day can boost our emotional and spiritual well-being thereby increasing the overall health of our immune system.

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese therapy that can help the body achieve physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Along with proper lifestyle choices, Acupuncture can boost and maintain a strong, healthy immune system by adjusting the energetic flow in the body. When the body's energy is balanced and flowing properly, the body stays healthy and can fight off external threats namely viruses, bacteria, and stress. In Western Medicine, acupuncture helps the brain increase the body's level of T-cells. When an acupuncture needle is inserted into an acupuncture point, it stimulates the central nervous system releasing chemicals into the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These changes stimulate the body's natural healing abilities to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Remember, treatments are completely natural and there are no side effects...just relaxation and improved well-being!

Increase your well-being by ensuring that your immune system is strong, vibrant, and healthy! Cheers to a healthy winter!