IMMUNITY OF THE BODY - part 1.

Why we have no immunity and what to do to change it.

Introduction.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO):  “health is a state of physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity”.

This means, among others: resistance to diseases and health discomforts, ability to deal with problems and stress, physical and mental fitness, ability to fulfill life and professional roles, vitality as well as balance and mental harmony.

Sleep deprivation, permanent stress and exhaustion, a poorly balanced diet are just the top of the iceberg - called "malfunction of the body's defense system". Current and past infections, pharmacological treatment (especially antibiotic therapy) only make this problem more profound.

Main reasons:

1 / improper lifestyle (stress and exhaustion),

2 / improper diet,

3 / lack of proper supplementation.

Our diet is rich in caloric "stuffers" that do not provide any nutritional value, while what we eat has a large impact on the body's immunity. To function properly, our bodies need the so-called “functional food” (“a food claimed to have an additional function (often one related to health promotion or disease prevention) by adding new ingredients or more of existing ingredients” [1]). The problem is that our diet contains only 5-10% of these nutrients [2].

The deteriorating quality of food (poor soil, the use of pesticides, steroids and antibiotics in breeding) means that we do not provide our bodies with the right amount of vitamins, microelements and other nutrients necessary for proper functioning. This makes supplementation necessary.

“Food supplements are concentrated sources of nutrients (i.e. mineral and vitamins) or other substances with a nutritional or physiological effect that are marketed in “dose” form (e.g. pills, tablets, capsules, liquids in measured doses). A wide range of nutrients and other ingredients might be present in food supplements, including, but not limited to, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, essential fatty acids, fibre and various plants and herbal extracts” – definition by EFSA (European Food Safety Authority).

The present ruling COVID-19 virus has just shown how conventional medicine is helpless when confronted with the unknown. The whole world was locked down while vaccines were being developed. How many more viruses are lying in wait? Medicines or vaccines do not release us from the need to take care of our immunity. Stronger and more efficient functioning organisms will be able to face external threats more easily, the risk of infection will be reduced, and even if something "attacks" us, the disease will be milder. Nature has endowed us with an army that struggles daily with from bacteria attacks, viruses, parasites and other filths. It is up to us how that soldiers will function and whether we will focus on its strength and development, or will we only count on help from outside allies. If the body is weak, external help will also be less effective. Why do antibiotics stop working? Why it is needed to have booster shots of vaccines? If you are interested in how you may affect your health yourself, please read this article.

Intestines - the human body’s Wall of China.

The immune system consists of the following organs: spleen, thymus, lymph nodes but in the intestinal mucosa are the most (as much as 70%) of the cells of the immune system (lymphocytes). Intestinal bacteria play major role in the body's immune system. They stimulate the production of lymphocytes and also take care of the absorption of vitamins and enzymes. Therefore, we must take particular care of our bacterial flora and provide it with the right food needed to develop.

Nevertheless we do everything to weaken it with an inappropriate diet and exterminate with overuse of antibiotics. The adverse effects of the antibiotic on the bacterial flora last 4 years after the end of the treatment. During this time we generally accept another "support" of this kind, so our bacterial flora is permanently defective. The immune system isn’t strengthened, is weakened, what leads to more frequent infections. The wrong functioning of the bacterial flora in the intestines may also affect conditions such as headaches, cancer, depression and the feeling of chronic fatigue.

If we do not start caring for our intestines, we will not protect ourselves against civilization diseases. As a result of the factors mentioned above, our intestines become leaky. What does it mean? Leaky intestinal walls pass not digested food into the bloodstream (e.g. proteins). Often, our lymphatic system recognizes them as intruders and started to attacks. This is an preface to allergies and autoimmune diseases.

"Certainly, the emergence of an autoimmune disease cannot be explained by a single mechanism. Moreover, various pathologies of the immune system are behind various diseases. Scientific research on the causes and techniques of treatment of these diseases is ongoing, and looking at the increasing frequency of their occurrence, it remains we can only count on the fact that their results will come quickly." [3].

The increase in allergies is dramatic. 100 years ago, allergies were not known, and now: "over 40% Poles have various allergies. The number of patients is increasing at an alarming rate – the experts emphasized during the Thursday press conference summarizing the activities of the Polish Ministry of Health for social education in the field of allergic diseases and asthma " [4].

The tight intestinal barrier prevents the entry of allergenic substances, bacteria, viruses and toxins into the bloodstream. It's like the Chinese Wall. If we don't take care of it, strength it, it will begin to brittle and then fall apart, giving enemies access to our property.

As shown above, to guaranty the body's immunity, you must take care of the intestines first.

The principles of prevention are quite obvious. Despite this, we have a problem with respecting with them, so it's worth reminding them:

1. Appropriate lifestyle - time to relax. Remember that for proper development the children need 9-11 hours of sleep, adults recover 7-8 hours).

2. Appropriate diet (less gluten and lactose, and more unsaturated fatty acids, fiber and prebiotic foods), more in the article: "A balanced meal contra wrong eating habits".

3. Supplementation.

4. Physical activity (stimulation of the circulation, nutrients are better absorbed, the immune system is also stimulated).

5. Hygiene (remember to wash your hands with hot water and ventilate the rooms. However, the greater problem nowadays is excessive hygiene - the so-called "keeping children rapped in cotton wool", which stops the development of their immune system and a greater risk of allergies, because the body doesn’t know natural enemies and is not immune to them).

Children's immunity.

It is very important to take care of the child's immune system, starting from his first days in the womb (not only proper diet but also supplementation of a pregnant woman). Let's not isolate the child from the environment because its first contact with the so-called environmental factor, will make it sick immediately.

"Respiratory infections in children are the most common reason for visiting a doctor. They account for over half of all infections and are a major cause of fever in infants and young children. Due to the physiological immaturity of the immune system, as well as environmental risk factors (nursery or kindergarten), children aged 2-5 years are a group particularly vulnerable to respiratory infections. At this age, an average of 6-8 incidents of mild infection are found per year. They occur mainly in the autumn and winter, definitely more often in children benefiting from care in nursery or kindergartens. (...) The vast majority of cells of the immune system are find in the digestive system. Therefore, proper nutrition is crucial in shaping immunity. A properly composed child's diet can strengthen the body, reduce the incidence of diseases, and if they occur, shorten their duration and facilitate recovery." [5].

When the first symptoms of infection appear, try to reach for the natural first aid kit, treating antibiotic therapy as a final solution but not an initial action. Antibiotics will quickly deal with a viral infection (they do not work in the case of bacteria that have already become resistant to them), while exhausted bacterial flora after treatment of the child will cause that it will soon catch another infection. We have to also remember to use pre- and probiotics.

Probiotics are livening microorganisms that, by producing lactic acid, help to restore the correct proportions within the bacterial flora of the digestive and genitourinary system. In the intestines they act multidirectionally forming the autonomic intestinal barrier and positively affecting the immune system towards an antiallergic reaction [6]. Examples of probiotic foods are fermented dairy products: yogurt, kefir, acidophilic milk, buttermilk (often prefixed with Bio-); as well as silage. These last, apart from having a beneficial effect on the intestinal microflora, contain many vitamins: A, C, E, B2 and PP. The fermentation process that takes place in them increases the absorption of calcium and iron [7].

"There are studies showing that using probiotics reduces the prevalence of atopic dermatitis in infants, relieves asthma symptoms in children, reduces the incidence of upper respiratory diseases and taking of antibiotics in children, is effective in treating acute infectious diarrhea and diarrhea after antibiotic therapy ." [8].

On the other hand, prebiotics "are non-digestible food ingredients that exert a positive effect on the host organism by stimulating the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria. The intestine is inhabiting about 1.5-2 kg of bacteria of various species, both those necessary for proper functioning and pathogenic, causing diseases. The qualitative and quantitative composition of the intestinal microflora is variable, and diet has a great impact on it. Prebiotics increase the amount of beneficial bacteria in the intestines of the Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Bacterioides strains." [9].

"Many studies show the potential effect of prebiotic intake on the absorption of calcium and other minerals, the effectiveness of the immune system, intestinal pH, reducing the risk of developing colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis), hypertension and improving sleep quality" [10].

When I was a child I had serious immunity problems, anemia, and I also suffered from asthma and allergies. I was treated in a traditional way. I took handfuls of colorful pills: antibiotics, steroids and God knows what else. My bacterial flora was almost exterminated. In my case, a change for a vegetarian diet had a great impact on improving my immunity. Then quality of my blood count upgraded significantly. Unfortunately, permanent stress and irregular nutrition associated with the my work and the digestive system heavily overburdened with treatment since childhood, have been instrumental in the development of Crohn's disease.

The seventh year of remission of my illness has just ended which I can call a great success, especially I don't take immunosuppressant drugs. I try to follow the five points mentioned above. I also have my own proven patents that help me stabilize my immunity and it should be emphasized that living with Crohn disease - resembles sitting on a powder keg because any, even innocent, infection may cause an attack of the disease. Below I present the most important products and supplements that I use:

 1. Forever Aloe Vera.

Contains 99.7% juice from aloe flesh. There are no preservatives or sugar. It has a high concentration of vitamin C. Aloe Vera supports the cleaning of the digestive system and the whole body. It seals the intestinal barrier, enhancing the body's immunity. Drinking it regularly restores balance to the body, making you healthier. Aloe Vera prevents infections at an early stage and cares for the optimal condition of epithelial cells, supporting them as a natural barrier and helping the body's healing processes. It blocks bacteria from multiplying. Additionally, it facilitates digestion of proteins, which are the main reason for food intolerance. Moreover, it enhances the prebiotic effect of the probiotic because it is an excellent breeding ground for good intestinal bacteria.

 2. Bee origin products.

I won’t dwell on the therapeutic properties of honey. They are widely known. I will only add that research on the antibacterial properties of honey showed that after 3-4 days from the time honey was added to the nutrient for bacteria, they all died. Honey is especially hated by streptococci, stapylococci, typhus, and intestinal sticks [11]. 

Propolis - is a natural antibiotic. It strongly stimulates the immune system and has a strong anti-inflammatory effect. It directly affects bacteria and viruses. Propolis also supports the effect of pharmaceutical antibiotics. This natural supplement should be used prophylactically in times of particular susceptibility to infections and flu.

In turn, bee pollen has numerous nutritional properties (it can be classified as a functional food) and is the best way to rebuild an exhausted organism. It stimulates the production of lymphocytes and antibodies. You should reach for pollen when exhausted, malnourished and during spring and autumn solstices.

Royal jelly is a gift of life. It supports immune system and has antibacterial and antiviral properties.

We may buy propolis or pollen from beekeepers. I can also recommend natural supplements that I use: propolis, pollen and royal jelly in tablets, produced by Forever Living Products, from the company's organic apiaries in the state of Arizona. 

The Apitherapy section is devoted to the beneficial effect of bee products on immunity and not only.

3. Sea buckthorn - a vitamin bomb.

It contains vitamins C, A, E, F, K, P, B12, as well as microelements such as ferrum, calcium, potassium, aluminum and silicon. The vitamin C from sea-buckthorn does not decompose during the process of frying or cooking. Sea-buckthorn berries have antiviral, antibacterial and antimycotic features. This is a great panacea for colds and sore throats. When you add honey, it also helps with a dry cough and it increases body immunity. It’s anti-inflammatory and supports sealing of blood vessels. This plant accelerates regeneration after intensive medical therapy, including chemo- and radiation therapy. However, be careful when buying sea buckthorn products from an unknown source. Often, sea buckthorn juice, even bought at the pharmacy, contains less than 10% sea buckthorn, so read the composition carefully.

 

 4. Garlic - a natural antibiotic.

Garlic is best eaten fresh. You may make garlic butter: squeeze a clove of garlic, add to butter and mix; you may add fresh or dried herbs: oregano or thyme). Vegans can replace butter with avocado. Pesto - is also an excellent carrier of fresh garlic. We mix basil, garlic, pine nuts and olive oil but we may replace basil with parsley or fresh spinach, pine nuts with walnuts, and olive oil with linseed oil. Garlic can also be supplemented. Forever Living Products company offers garlic oil supported by another strong natural antibiotic in the form of thyme powder, in easy-to-swallow capsules that dissolve in the intestines. As a result, it doesn’t cause an unpleasant breath.

 5. Probiotics.

 

Kombucha - also known as a "mushroom", is a drink from the group of symbiotic cultures of yeast and bacteria. Once popular, bred in large jars by our grandmothers, now rediscovered and rightly so. Kombucha mixture contains numerous organic acids, including: acetic, lactic and gluconic acids, vitamins B and C, minerals among others: zinc, magnesium, calcium, iron, copper. It is a powerful antioxidant, cleanses toxins and regulates the intestines, and thus has a positive effect on immunity. I am lucky that I was gifted with a "mushroom" by very positive people who, after including the kombucha drink in their regular diet, got rid of many conditions. My “mushroom” lives in a jar in my house now. I take care of it and treat it like a family member. Due to its popularity, Kombucha is now widely available in stores. However, if you only have such an opportunity, it is worth culturing a "mushroom" on your own, then you know what you drink and that it is a natural liquid without the addition of, for example, preservatives.

In the period of increased disease risk, it is worth supplementing with ready-made strains of bacteria in capsules.

Forever Active Pro-B.

It performs important functions in the digestive and immune systems. Contains 6 bacterial strains, more than 8 CFU (bacterial colony forming unit) from the genera Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. Thanks to cryoprotection technology, bacteria are resistant to gastric acids and reach the intestines in optimal condition. In addition, the type of fiber contained in the preparation nourishes the bacteria when they reach their destination, supporting their multiplication, which is also responsible for the proper functioning of the immune system.

For children who have trouble swallowing capsules, I recommend a product of doTerra company PB Assist Jr.

It's a powdered probiotic. It contains a mix of 5 billion live cells that come from 6 different probiotic strains of the genus Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium and the FOS prebiotic. You may put the contents of the sachet directly into your mouth or mix it with 120 ml of water, juice or your preferred drink and drink it immediately (do not use hot water because it will lose its qualities).

6. Essential oils instead of antibiotics.

Oregano oil.

It contains thymol and carvacrol, thanks to which it has strong antibacterial and antiviral properties. It strengthens the immune system. It is a perfect help for all types of diseases of the upper respiratory and digestive system. Oregano will help with every form of flu. However, we should remember that if we use oregano internally, the treatment shouldn’t be longer than 2 weeks because after defeating all unwanted external intruders, it will start to eliminated our bacterial flora.

 

Thyme oil.

It has antibacterial and antiviral properties. Thyme oil contains thymol, that strengthens our immune system, thus supporting body’s natural defenses.

Tea tree oil.

Tea tree oil was officially defined as an antiseptic in 1923 by dr Arthur Penfold, who found it 11 times stronger than phenol, then standard antiseptic. This plant has a strong antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect. Tea tree oil is helpful in diseases such as pneumonia, sinusitis and ears inflammation.

Copaiba Oil.

It is distilled from the resin of the copaiba tree that grows in the rainforests of South America. It has a strong antioxidant effect and supports the work of the immune, cardiovascular, digestive and respiratory systems.

Cinnamon Oil.

Natural oil, distilled from the bark of the cinnamon tree, contains cineole and eugenol. These compounds have antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. The oil warms up and stimulates the immune system. It is a very powerful oil. Its weaker variety is Cassia oil - distilled from the branches and leaves of the Chinese cinnamon tree from the Lauraceae family.

Lemon oil.

We associate lemon mainly as a remedy for colds due to its high content of vitamin C. Just as a fruit, the oil distilled from its peel, has properties of a natural antibiotic. Research has shown that it helps in the fight against bacteria that cause typhus, diphtheria, pneumonia, tuberculosis, as well as the highly "annoying" Staphylococcus aureus. The oil has a positive effect on our immune system, supporting the creation of white blood cells. Sprayed in the air it provides superb antiseptic functions. Other citrus essential oils (orange, lime, grapefruit) also have similar properties. Orange oil is very delicate, so it is suitable even for infants (of course, the oil must have appropriate purity and therapeutic quality certificates).

Ready-made mixtures of oils supporting the body's immunity:

DoTerra On Guard - possibility of internal use.

The blend includes oils from: orange, cinnamon, clove, eucalyptus and rosemary.

DoTerra DDR Prime Oil® Cellular Complex - possibility of internal use.

The blend consists of oils from: incense resin, wild orange peel, litsea fruit, thyme leaves, cloves, garden savory, nioula leaves (melelauca viridiflora) and lemongrass leaves.

Forever Essential Oils Defense.

The blend includes oils from: orange, cinnamon, clove, eucalyptus, rosemary, frankincense and juniper berry.

Young Living Thieves.

The blend includes oils from: lemon, cinnamon, clove, eucalyptus and rosemary.

These are patented protective mixtures with strong antibacterial and antivirus effects. They strengthen the immune system and also help to fight various types of infections. Both mixtures are 100% pure and excellent quality oils.

During the cold and flu season, it is best to applicate the oil into the soles of the feet, especially before leaving home or, in the case of oils with appropriate certificates (e.g. CPTG), include them in your daily diet, adding to drinks (preferably water).

More information about aromatherapy you may find here: Aromatherapy.

 7. Vitamin supplementation.

Vitamins A, C, E and D are particularly important for the immune system. Here I can recommend Swanson and Puritan’s Pride vitamins, as well as Forever supplements. A separate article is devoted to the influence of vitamins on our immune system "Immunity of the body part 2".

Some of the above-mentioned supplements may be purchased or ordered in my store: VINCI - ZDROWIE Z NATURY (VINCI - HEALTH BY NATURE).

I also encourage you to purchase a natural supplement for external use - a mixture based on black cumin oil with the addition of a number of oils that improve immunity. "CARE" (original name “OPIEKA”) is my carefully selection of oils, the main goal of which is to prevent infections. If I catch a cold, it helps me to fight the infection quickly, without overstimulating my immune system, which makes a risk of waking up Crohn's disease.

This is the real "Care" offered by nature.

Sources used in this article:

[1] “What are Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals? Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Archived”, June 7, 2008, at the Wayback Machine. 

[2] Magdalena Moraszczyk „Żywność funkcjonalna - które produkty zasługują na to miano”, Poradnik Zdrowie, wydanie internetowe, 2020-02-04.

[3] dr. Paulina Jurek "When “a friend" means a stranger" (org„Kiedy „swój” znaczy „obcy””. , 14.07.2011, Medonet.

[4] Wojciech Kamiński Polish Press Agency, 13.12.2018.

[5] Tadeusz M. Zielonka „Epidemiology of respiratory diseases in children” (org. „Epidemiologia chorób układu oddechowego u dzieci”),Borgis - Postępy Nauk Medycznych 9/2008, s. 551-558.

[6] Allergy Immunol, October 2002, 110 (4))

[7] MAGDALENA JARZYNKA-JENDRZEJEWSKA, EWA SYPNIK-POGORZELSKA „12 benefits of eating silage” (org. „12 zalet jedzenia kiszonek”), Onet,  28.05.2021

[8]. md, dietitian Ewa Gąsecka, Dbam o Zdrowie

[9] Poradnik Zdrowie Aleksandra Żyłowska, dietician, 14/09/2016.

[10] Wikipedia.

[11] Irena Gumowska “Bees and people” (original: “Pszczoły i ludzie”).

Related article:

IMMUNITY OF THE BODY PART 2