The immune system is a complex network that defends the body against infections. However, it is not a foolproof system because not only do germs mutate but individuals can suffer from immune deficiencies, allergic disease and autoimmune disorders. Recent events have highlighted the role of the immune system in fighting viruses, and as is often the case, patients get a hold of inaccurate information through the media and on the internet. Practitioners are facing questions from patients regarding their immune system, COVID-19 and how it might affect them. That’s why Nutramedica convened a panel of immune system experts to discuss some of the facts and fallacies around the immune system. Nutramedica host E Brian Johnson spoke to Dr Michael Traub, ND, FABNO, Dr Lise Alschuler ND, FABNO, and Dr Paul Anderson NMD.
Key Takeaways
- Microbiome The immune response of an individual is genetically and biochemically unique. The gut microbiome is the hub for the immune system. Diets high in fibre and fermented foods encourage diversity in the human intestinal microbiome, which is associated with a more favorable immune response.
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Stress Short bursts of acute stress have been shown to benefit the immune system. For example, short-term fasting can activate the immune system. However, prolonged stress situations are detrimental to immune function and should be avoided.
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Sleep Sleep is a really critical foundational piece to immune health. Sugar and alcohol are known to have immunosuppressive effects.
Immune Senescence Patients over the age of 50 may start to experience immune senescence, for example, the elderly tend to respond less well to vaccines when compared with the young. Immunomodulating polysaccharides, such as those found in mushrooms, have been shown to stimulate the immune system and modulate immune exhaustion that happens with immunosenescence.
Fact Or Fallacy?
- Fact Or Fallacy: Can vaccines weaken the immune system? This is a fallacy. Vaccinated people are not at greater risk of other infections than unvaccinated people.
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Fact Or Fallacy: Is Infection preventable by taking supplements?
This is a fallacy. However, certain supplements can support the immune system because immunity and the microbiome are intimately linked. Practitioners can use targeted supplementation with probiotics to promote a more responsive immune system.
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Fact or Fallacy: Vitamin D reduces the risk of COVID mortality. This is a fallacy. We can say that sufficient Vitamin D reduces the risk of upper respiratory tract infections and the severity of upper respiratory infections, however, it is a leap to say it can reduce COVID mortality.
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Fact or Fallacy: Bio-flavonoids inhibit the virulence of COVID-19. This is a fallacy. However, Flavonoids are crucial to the functioning of a healthy immune system, but again, it’s a leap to justify the claim that flavonoids inhibit the virulence of COVID virus.
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Fact or Fallacy: Intravenous Vitamin C reduces COVID mortality. Studies are ongoing, but the latest published data shows positive results, especially in very sick patients. Taking a look at it from a benefit-risk perspective, the benefit is potentially high and the risk very low.
Key Quote
“Rather than “stronger” immunity, I like to use words like “well modulated” immune response. I use the analogy of a symphony. If we want Vivaldi played beautifully, we don't just say to the orchestra “everybody play loud!”. We’ll have the violin section crescendo at the right time. We have the oboes come in when they're needed. We have the cellos do their part. It's very coordinated with different volumes at different times for different players. And I think that's very much like how the immune system works”. Dr Lise Alschuler ND, FABNO
Surprising Fact
Flavonoids have a wonderful biochemical diversity and a wide range of actions on the immune system. To get enough flavonoids, you should consider supplementation as it is challenging to consume enough flavonoids with the modern diet.
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The opinions expressed in this Nutramedica program are those of the guests and contributors. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Nutritional Fundamentals For Health Inc.
This video is intended for licensed or registered health professionals and students of health professions only. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Information contained in these programs is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
