The development of dietary strategies to support immunity against COVID-19 is constantly being studied. As with drugs, human studies have not proven that any food component is effective against COVID-19. We know the immune system plays a key role in reducing COVID-19 severity. Perhaps by providing food to support the immune systems, we can help preventive measures.
Nutraceuticals have been shown in numerous clinical studies to stimulate the immune system in people with cancer, AIDS and other diseases as well as in healthy individuals at risk for viral infections. Natural compounds have been widely recognized for their effectiveness in fighting viruses because of their safety and structural diversity.
Several products used by people in traditional medicine contain substances that have anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, and antiviral effects. These include vitamin C found in raspberries and elderberries as well as hesperidin, kaempferol, and methylglyoxal, in honey. Other examples are allicin, which is present in garlic, onion, and gingerols, curcumin, in turmeric, or piperine, in black pepper.
Here are some food sources that support the immune system:
Elderberry
Elderberry (Sambucus Nigra) could be helpful against COVID-19 because it stimulates the immune system and blocks virus replication. This could be particularly helpful in the early stages of coronavirus infections or to prevent infection. Elderberries increase pro-inflammatory cytokines by inhibiting virus replication. The Natural Standard Research Collaboration reviewed the evidence and concluded that elderberries can be used to treat flu. This may or may not have any significance in the prevention of COVID-19. The usual dose of elderberry extract 2:1 is 10-60mL per day for adults, and 5-30mL for children.
Selenium
Selenium is important in protecting against respiratory infections, particularly viral ones. Selenium deficiency in the diet may affect immune responses. Combining selenium with CoQ10 reduces non-specific inflammation from cardiovascular causes.
Selenium's antioxidant properties are important in its role as a component of the immune system. The immune system benefits from selenium are also important for patients with SARS-Cov-2. The recommended dose of selenium is 100-200 mcg per day.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D plays a major role in protecting against COVID-19 and other infectious respiratory diseases. According to research, the COVID-19 infection rate is higher in countries that have higher latitudes or lower vitamin D levels.
A severe vitamin D deficiency can be observed often in patients with critical conditions and is linked to a bad prognosis. This is linked to an exacerbation in pneumonia that leads to acute respiratory distress syndrome. Vitamin D intake at a dosage of =5000 mg D3/day for prevention is recommended. Vitamin D modulates and stimulates the immune response, protecting the upper and lower respiratory tracts from viral infections.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is involved in blood clotting and immune system processes, both of which are important in COVID-19. Vitamin C is essential for the body's ability to fight viruses. Vitamin C is typically taken in doses ranging from 500 mg to 3000mg per day. Higher doses may be used during acute infections.
Numerous studies have shown that high doses vitamin C can be used to treat lung disease, reduce severe sepsis and shorten the length of stay in intensive care units.
Here are a few less-known supplements that you can take to boost your immune system. Diet is the primary source of these vitamins. According to widely accepted recommendations, at least half of your daily diet should be fruit and vegetables. Every day we should eat at least five portions, primarily vegetables (3-4 portions vegetables and 1-2 fruits). They should ideally be different colors, raw or minimally-processed.
A balanced, healthy diet can help with most chronic conditions. A diet that is high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties may reduce the severity of many diseases.
Alternative Medicine Magazine published the article Immune System Support Tips first.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Difference Between Naturopathic & Holistic Medicine?
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine is based on drugs and surgery. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM is not meant to replace conventional treatment, but to help patients who are able to choose what is best for them.
Naturopathy on the other side is meant to be used in conjunction with conventional medical procedures. It addresses the whole body and mind as well as the soul. There are many forms and types of naturopathy.
It is important for you to know that some CAM modalities can overlap with conventional medicine. Doctors and naturopaths can both prescribe herbal remedies. However, naturopaths emphasize lifestyle changes more than prescription drugs.
Naturopathy can be called “complementary” when it is used in combination with conventional medicine. Naturopaths may prescribe medication as needed.
There are some differences in naturopathic medicine from other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths are not qualified to prescribe or diagnose medication.
- Naturopaths may work alongside the patient's family doctor and may refer patients to specialists if needed.
- Naturopathic physicians must be licensed by their provinces. CAM practitioners need to be self-regulated.
- Naturopathy focuses on prevention and wellness and offers education about diet, exercise, and nutrition.
- Naturopaths emphasize the importance of lifestyle factors such as nutrition, sleep, stress management and exercise.
- Naturopharmacists specialize in the use of botanicals and minerals to treat specific conditions.
- Naturopodists have the ability to offer individualized care that is tailored to each patient's needs.
- The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario issues licenses for Naturopaths.
- Naturopatrists can be licensed by the provincial regulatory agencies.
- Naturopaticians can be registered with the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia issues licenses to Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners accredits Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency entitles homeopaths.
- The concept of “holistic” is a belief that all aspects – spiritual, emotional, and social – should be considered when making decisions regarding one's health. Holistic doctors will take into account all aspects of life, rather than focusing on one.
What is holistic medicine opposite?
Holistic medicine is a way to approach health care that takes into account all aspects of the body, as well as its spiritual, emotional, and social dimensions. Holistic medicine is based on the idea that every illness has multiple causes. It requires a combination therapy to achieve maximum effectiveness.
Holistic medicine practitioners believe prevention is better that cure. They work closely with their patients to help them achieve optimal wellness.
They seek to identify underlying causes of disease and prevent it from recurring. Holistic physicians treat the entire body, not just its organs. Holistic physicians often refer to the whole being as “the Body”.
They treat the whole body, not just the skin. The doctor may suggest changes to diet, lifestyle, and exercise. He may also suggest meditation or yoga exercises, herbal supplements, massage, acupuncture, chiropractic treatment, or other forms of alternative medicine.
Alternative medicine is important.
Alternative treatments are becoming more popular as they're cheaper and more effective than traditional therapies. Unfortunately, many patients have died as a result of side effects like allergic reactions. You may also find that alternative therapies are not as effective.
If you don't have enough knowledge about alternative medicines, they can pose a danger. Vitamin supplements, for instance, aren't controlled like pharmaceuticals. This makes it easy to take too many vitamins. Some alternative remedies can contain toxic chemicals, which is even worse.
Is holistic medicine safe?
Holistic Medicine is not as hazardous as you might think. However it does come with a few risks. Side effects most commonly include headaches and nausea. These risks must be understood by patients and balanced against the benefits of alternative treatments, such as acupuncture.
There have never been any cases of death related to holistic medicine.
Before you start any new treatment, make sure to talk with your doctor.
What is the distinction between alternative medicine (AM) and complementary medicine (CM)?
Alternative medicine is a treatment that is not commonly used by mainstream medical professionals, but has been proven to be beneficial for certain conditions. Homeopathy, acupuncture and aromatherapy are all examples. Complementary medicines are therapies that can be used alongside traditional medicine. These may include dietary supplements, such as vitamins and minerals, herbs, enzymes, enzymes, probiotics or other natural substances.
Although both types of medicine are common, conventional doctors don't recommend them because there isn't enough evidence or safety concern.
There is no consensus among healthcare providers about the best approach to integrating CAM within patient care.
Many CAM treatments are based off theories that have been around for thousands years. Clinical trials conducted over the past two decades have shown that some of these treatments might be effective.
Many studies show that acupuncture may help relieve pain. Similarly, preliminary data show that it may reduce nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. A number of studies also suggest that acupuncture might improve symptoms like irritable and fibromyalgia as well as chronic fatigue syndrome, Multiple Sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, migraines tension headaches, anxiety, and anxiety.
Some CAM techniques may also be beneficial in treating diseases like HIV/AIDS (AIDS), diabetes, heart disease and hypertension.
Although there is still much to learn about the effectiveness and safety of CAM, experts are unanimous in their belief that it can be used to treat various conditions.
People are turning to CAM practitioners more often for relief from common diseases.
Despite growing popularity, many remain confused about the definition of “alternative” or complementary medicine.
Statistics
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING, TENSION-TYPEHEADACHE – PubMed
- A Randomized controlled trial to determine the effect of foot reflexology on depression and anxiety in older women: PubMed
nccih.nih.gov
- Statistics on Complementary, Integrative and Health Approaches
- Complementary, Alternative, or Integrative Health: What's In a Name? NCCIH
webmd.com
doi.org
How To
How do I deal with my girlfriend who trusts alternative medicine?
The internet offers guidance for those caring for a loved one with a mental illness. It is difficult to find information about alternative medicine for someone you love.
It appears that there is a large divide between the two groups. Both those who have doubts about traditional medicine and those who see the benefits.
What happens when someone believes there are other treatments for mental illness?
Perhaps you feel confused or frustrated, because you don’t know how to react. You might feel confused and frustrated if your partner tells you that he'd rather see an acupuncturist than his physician. Or when she suggests that she would rather eat gluten-free food than take antidepressants?
It is important that you ask questions. It's important to ask them early. This will save you many heartaches later.
However, how can you ask such difficult questions without offending him What if the man says he doesn’t trust doctors. What if he says he doesn't trust doctors?
Or, what if she tells you that she believes antidepressants don’t work? Tell her that you don't believe she's right.
This is where it gets complicated. She may be even more offended if it is pointed out that she is wrong.
Alternatively, you could suggest that she sees a psychiatrist instead. This could cause more problems than it solves. You may get mad at her for suggesting this. She might think you are trying to control her mind.
What should you do?
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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you're experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
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By: Dick Benson
Title: Immune System Support Tips
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/immunity/immune-system-support-tips/
Published Date: Mon, 19 Jun 2023 04:25:17 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Difference Between Naturopathic & Holistic Medicine?
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine is based on drugs and surgery. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM is not meant to replace conventional treatment, but to help patients who are able to choose what is best for them.
Naturopathy on the other side is meant to be used in conjunction with conventional medical procedures. It addresses the whole body and mind as well as the soul. There are many forms and types of naturopathy.
It is important for you to know that some CAM modalities can overlap with conventional medicine. Doctors and naturopaths can both prescribe herbal remedies. However, naturopaths emphasize lifestyle changes more than prescription drugs.
Naturopathy can be called “complementary” when it is used in combination with conventional medicine. Naturopaths may prescribe medication as needed.
There are some differences in naturopathic medicine from other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths are not qualified to prescribe or diagnose medication.
- Naturopaths may work alongside the patient's family doctor and may refer patients to specialists if needed.
- Naturopathic physicians must be licensed by their provinces. CAM practitioners need to be self-regulated.
- Naturopathy focuses on prevention and wellness and offers education about diet, exercise, and nutrition.
- Naturopaths emphasize the importance of lifestyle factors such as nutrition, sleep, stress management and exercise.
- Naturopharmacists specialize in the use of botanicals and minerals to treat specific conditions.
- Naturopodists have the ability to offer individualized care that is tailored to each patient's needs.
- The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario issues licenses for Naturopaths.
- Naturopatrists can be licensed by the provincial regulatory agencies.
- Naturopaticians can be registered with the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia issues licenses to Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners accredits Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency entitles homeopaths.
- The concept of “holistic” is a belief that all aspects – spiritual, emotional, and social – should be considered when making decisions regarding one's health. Holistic doctors will take into account all aspects of life, rather than focusing on one.
What is holistic medicine opposite?
Holistic medicine is a way to approach health care that takes into account all aspects of the body, as well as its spiritual, emotional, and social dimensions. Holistic medicine is based on the idea that every illness has multiple causes. It requires a combination therapy to achieve maximum effectiveness.
Holistic medicine practitioners believe prevention is better that cure. They work closely with their patients to help them achieve optimal wellness.
They seek to identify underlying causes of disease and prevent it from recurring. Holistic physicians treat the entire body, not just its organs. Holistic physicians often refer to the whole being as “the Body”.
They treat the whole body, not just the skin. The doctor may suggest changes to diet, lifestyle, and exercise. He may also suggest meditation or yoga exercises, herbal supplements, massage, acupuncture, chiropractic treatment, or other forms of alternative medicine.
Alternative medicine is important.
Alternative treatments are becoming more popular as they're cheaper and more effective than traditional therapies. Unfortunately, many patients have died as a result of side effects like allergic reactions. You may also find that alternative therapies are not as effective.
If you don't have enough knowledge about alternative medicines, they can pose a danger. Vitamin supplements, for instance, aren't controlled like pharmaceuticals. This makes it easy to take too many vitamins. Some alternative remedies can contain toxic chemicals, which is even worse.
Is holistic medicine safe?
Holistic Medicine is not as hazardous as you might think. However it does come with a few risks. Side effects most commonly include headaches and nausea. These risks must be understood by patients and balanced against the benefits of alternative treatments, such as acupuncture.
There have never been any cases of death related to holistic medicine.
Before you start any new treatment, make sure to talk with your doctor.
What is the distinction between alternative medicine (AM) and complementary medicine (CM)?
Alternative medicine is a treatment that is not commonly used by mainstream medical professionals, but has been proven to be beneficial for certain conditions. Homeopathy, acupuncture and aromatherapy are all examples. Complementary medicines are therapies that can be used alongside traditional medicine. These may include dietary supplements, such as vitamins and minerals, herbs, enzymes, enzymes, probiotics or other natural substances.
Although both types of medicine are common, conventional doctors don't recommend them because there isn't enough evidence or safety concern.
There is no consensus among healthcare providers about the best approach to integrating CAM within patient care.
Many CAM treatments are based off theories that have been around for thousands years. Clinical trials conducted over the past two decades have shown that some of these treatments might be effective.
Many studies show that acupuncture may help relieve pain. Similarly, preliminary data show that it may reduce nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. A number of studies also suggest that acupuncture might improve symptoms like irritable and fibromyalgia as well as chronic fatigue syndrome, Multiple Sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, migraines tension headaches, anxiety, and anxiety.
Some CAM techniques may also be beneficial in treating diseases like HIV/AIDS (AIDS), diabetes, heart disease and hypertension.
Although there is still much to learn about the effectiveness and safety of CAM, experts are unanimous in their belief that it can be used to treat various conditions.
People are turning to CAM practitioners more often for relief from common diseases.
Despite growing popularity, many remain confused about the definition of “alternative” or complementary medicine.
Statistics
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING, TENSION-TYPEHEADACHE – PubMed
- A Randomized controlled trial to determine the effect of foot reflexology on depression and anxiety in older women: PubMed
nccih.nih.gov
- Statistics on Complementary, Integrative and Health Approaches
- Complementary, Alternative, or Integrative Health: What's In a Name? NCCIH
webmd.com
doi.org
How To
How do I deal with my girlfriend who trusts alternative medicine?
The internet offers guidance for those caring for a loved one with a mental illness. It is difficult to find information about alternative medicine for someone you love.
It appears that there is a large divide between the two groups. Both those who have doubts about traditional medicine and those who see the benefits.
What happens when someone believes there are other treatments for mental illness?
Perhaps you feel confused or frustrated, because you don’t know how to react. You might feel confused and frustrated if your partner tells you that he'd rather see an acupuncturist than his physician. Or when she suggests that she would rather eat gluten-free food than take antidepressants?
It is important that you ask questions. It's important to ask them early. This will save you many heartaches later.
However, how can you ask such difficult questions without offending him What if the man says he doesn’t trust doctors. What if he says he doesn't trust doctors?
Or, what if she tells you that she believes antidepressants don’t work? Tell her that you don't believe she's right.
This is where it gets complicated. She may be even more offended if it is pointed out that she is wrong.
Alternatively, you could suggest that she sees a psychiatrist instead. This could cause more problems than it solves. You may get mad at her for suggesting this. She might think you are trying to control her mind.
What should you do?
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