By Dr Orly Zuker, Chiropractor
Olive Leaf Extract
Tracing back thousands of years, olive trees are everywhere you look in the Mediterranean. Interestingly, the rates of cardiovascular disease in countries such as Greece, Spain and Italy are impressively lower. Scientists now attribute this to the large quantities of ‘healthy fats’ that are consumed daily in these areas. Historically, the olive tree has been referred to as the "tree of life", as the leaves and fruit contain plant phenols that have healing and medicinal properties. In more recent years, olive leaf extract has become a popular multi use tonic. According to manufacturers, olive leaf extract has 400% more antioxidant power than vitamin C. Research has also suggested benefits in; enhancing immunity (due to antibacterial and antifungal action), in fever relief and in boosting cardiovascular health.
(B.Appl Sci; Comp Med, Clin Chiro; Masters, B.Nursing)
The human body is remarkable and its immune system is its most complex
feature. Our immune system is our body's defence. It fights off bacteria,
viruses, parasites, fungi, glass objects, rust, toxins and dirt etc. In an
event that the body is ‘invaded’ by these antigens (foreign bodies), an
‘attack’ or immune response takes place. This is a normal, health and natural
response.
Each individual leads a somewhat
different lifestyle and as a result not everyone’s immune system functions at the same
standard. Where one person might ‘catch everything’ another will be
unbelievably resilient. This in most cases is a clear reflection of the
lifestyle choices they make.
Whether it is the common cold or different cancers, the immune system never stops fighting and clearing.
Whether it is the common cold or different cancers, the immune system never stops fighting and clearing.
Most people will either sadly know someone who is fighting or fought
cancer or lost their lives to this awful disease. Like with anything health and
wellness related, being education and having a ‘holistic’ understanding allows
us to step outside of the square and make healthier choices. What most people
don’t know about cancer is that cancer cells in fact exist in everyone’s body,
although cancer in the form of disease will only ever occur as a result of the
immune system failing and allowing cancer cells to multiply.
In saying this, in a normal functioning body, your immune system is killing
cancer cells as we speak. How amazing!
Very simply, the immune system is physiologically made up of a complex
arrangement of white bloods cells (WBCs), lymphatic tissue, bone marrow and
organs such as the spleen and thymus, which work together to defend and protect
the body. Leukocytes are specific WBCs that constantly circulate the
bloodstream monitoring for the presence of ‘germs’ and foreign substances that may cause illness.
In the 18th and
the early 19th centuries
infectious disease, poor hygiene and poor sanitation standards were the major
threats to health. In the 21st century,
infectious disease is no longer such an issue, except due to the overuse of
antibiotics we now have ‘super bugs’ that are resistant to antibiotic treatment.
This poses a problem and has led to an epidemic of what is known as Iatrogenesis;
adverse effects/ illness/ death caused by medical intervention. In addition,
today we are faced by an epidemic of lifestyle diseases such as; cancer, heart
disease, diabetes and obesity. These are a major problem in the western world
and a mostly avoidable by leading a healthy lifestyle (with a healthy diet and
an active lifestyle).
As for the ‘germ-theory’ or ‘herd-theory of disease, well it has been
disproven time and time again… You won’t have to ‘catch everything going
around’ if you look after yourself and keep your immunity boosted.
If you are prone to poor immunity
during the winter months, there a few things you may like to include or
introduce into in your lifestyle to help you avoid those winter sniffles, some answers
you will even find in your pantry!
With our crazy, busy lives quite often
all you need is rest and recuperation; however when it comes to avoiding a
common cold, flu or sinus infection, nature can come to the rescue!
Minerals such as zinc, vitamins such as
C, D and the B complex, Echinacea, garlic, olive leaf extract and honey are
just some! Regardless of whether you are interested in living till 101, warding
off viruses, avoiding cancer or merely maintaining good health, it is imperative
to live a healthy lifestyle, by exercising regularly, reducing stress, eating a
healthy and well balanced diet (including healthy fats and minimising sugar and
packaged foods) and by having adequate sleep each night. These simple measures
are not a full proof guarantee, although they should at least give your body a
boost when it comes to your health, immunity and the cellular aging process.
IMMUNE BOOSTING SUPPLEMENTS
Olive Leaf Extract
Tracing back thousands of years, olive trees are everywhere you look in the Mediterranean. Interestingly, the rates of cardiovascular disease in countries such as Greece, Spain and Italy are impressively lower. Scientists now attribute this to the large quantities of ‘healthy fats’ that are consumed daily in these areas. Historically, the olive tree has been referred to as the "tree of life", as the leaves and fruit contain plant phenols that have healing and medicinal properties. In more recent years, olive leaf extract has become a popular multi use tonic. According to manufacturers, olive leaf extract has 400% more antioxidant power than vitamin C. Research has also suggested benefits in; enhancing immunity (due to antibacterial and antifungal action), in fever relief and in boosting cardiovascular health.
Echinacea
Echinacea is an indigenous North
America plant, which produces a flower known for its medicinal properties.
Echinacea is most commonly used in preventing common colds and flu. Various
studies have shown that Echinacea preparations (liquid, tablets and capsules)
shorten the duration and or decrease the severity of symptoms associated with common
colds.
Whether it is a tomato plant, a rose bush or a living being, the sun is important for our existence. This has become a contentious issue though due to emergence of skin cancer and campaigns focused on reducing skin cancer rates. When thinking about sun protection, sun exposure and boosting vitamin D levels consider spending just 10min-15min in the sun (with direct skin exposure and no protection), 2-3 times a week. In Australia, avoid this practice at times of high UV index, for example 11am-3pm.
If your lifestyle prohibits you from enjoying the glorious sun or it has been recommended to that you avoid the sun (for medical reasons), it is imperative that you take a daily vitamin D supplement. As a health practitioner, I recommend ‘practitioner only’ vitamin D drops as opposed to popular brands that are manufactured by pharmaceutical companies. Depending on your vitamin D levels (measured by blood test) you may need to take anywhere between 1-5+ drops per day.
Vitamin B complex
There are eight vitamins which make up the B-complex. These are all essential for metabolic processes that include: energy production, red blood cell synthesis/ formation, protein and carbohydrate metabolism, brain function and development, immune function and hormone activity. Of all the 8 B-vitamins, vitamin B6 and B12 are especially connected to immunity and infection susceptibility. If you are experiencing recurrent colds and infections, it is possible that you may have a vitamin B deficiency that should be explored by your health care provider. A simple blood test or hair-mineral analysis will give you this information.
Zinc
Zinc is an essential nutrient required for good health, as it is involved in cell growth and function. Deficiencies may cause growth retardation in children, immune deficiency, as well as problems relating to skin and mood. Some studies suggest that the use of zinc can have benefits in childhood diarrhoea, chronic hepatitis C, adult shingles, tuberculosis, pneumonia, respiratory tract infections and the common cold.
Vitamin C
Most people have either heard or know that vitamin C (a powerful antioxidant) offers assistance to the immune system. Public perception is that oranges and citrus fruit are the best choice in obtaining vitamin C from food, where in actual fact kiwi fruit, capsicum, garlic, olive leaf extract, berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) and guava contain greater amounts of vitamin C per gram.
In the bloodstream, vitamin C acts to reduce oxidative stress by destroying free radicals, and as a result slowing the rate of cellular aging and damage. Over time, studies have shown that vitamin C may reduce inflammation and histamine (associated with allergies) as well as enhancing the cell mediated immune response.
Probiotics
Probiotics or ‘microflora’ aid the body by maintaining balance between the gastrointestinal tract and the immune system. With the polluted environment we live in and with regular antibiotic therapy, ‘unhealthy’ or ’bad’ bacteria can proliferate in the gut. This bacteria overgrows and inhibits the function of the ‘healthy’ or ‘good’ bacteria that exists. This causes a disruption in the gut, often leading to gut dysfunction (dysbiosis), symptoms, reduced immunity, inflammation and disease.
Garlic
For thousands of years in communities around the world garlic has been used for its powerful medicinal properties. Apparently, in 3000 BC the Egyptian and Roman workman ate raw garlic as they believed it enhanced their physical endurance and strength. Garlic contains a powerful compound known as Allicin for which studies show have anti-microbial properties (antibacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-parasitic). In addition, Allicin has been found to have anti-cancer, anti-oxidant and anti-diabetic effects, as well as positive effects on cardiovascular health (reducing blood pressure and cholesterol).
Honey
Honey, propolis and royal jelly are special
yields of the beehive. Since ancient times, honey has been an important part of
traditional medicine, and in more recent times has been utilised in hospitals
for wound healing with impressive results. The propolis and royal jelly portion
of honey has been found to have anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant,
immuno-modulatory, hypotensive, disinfectant, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral
effects. In a nut shell, the famous ‘sore throat’ home remedy of honey &
lemon tea has credibility!
Chiropractic
For over 120 years in clinics around the world, Chiropractors have observed case-by-case that their patients seem to have greater immune resiliency, finding that they either avoid colds or that they resolve faster with symptoms being milder than previous times… This may be a strange phenomena or there may be scientific research supporting it. Non-the-less if we take care of all aspects of our body as a whole then we have a greater chance of great health overall.
Whichever way you choose to manage your winter sniffles is up to you, conversely it is possible to avoid antibiotic therapy and recurrent illness and to boost your immune system or enhance your overall health. An abundance of health promoting antioxidants, minerals & vitamins exist in your pantry, fridge, at your local grocer or at your health care provider. Stock up on all of the goodness that nature and natural health care has to offer and good health to you and your family!
Your Naturopath is able to administer herbal
preparations of high strength Echinacea and can combine it with immune boosting
zinc, garlic and vitamin C. This combination together will either help your
body to avoid colds in winter. Research suggests that Echinacea is only
effective as prevention before symptoms appear.
Vitamin D
It is a well-known fact that colds and
flu are more frequent in winter. The parallel to this is that vitamin D deficiency
is also common in winter, and science is only more recently discovering that
there is a connection!
Whether it is a tomato plant, a rose bush or a living being, the sun is important for our existence. This has become a contentious issue though due to emergence of skin cancer and campaigns focused on reducing skin cancer rates. When thinking about sun protection, sun exposure and boosting vitamin D levels consider spending just 10min-15min in the sun (with direct skin exposure and no protection), 2-3 times a week. In Australia, avoid this practice at times of high UV index, for example 11am-3pm.
If your lifestyle prohibits you from enjoying the glorious sun or it has been recommended to that you avoid the sun (for medical reasons), it is imperative that you take a daily vitamin D supplement. As a health practitioner, I recommend ‘practitioner only’ vitamin D drops as opposed to popular brands that are manufactured by pharmaceutical companies. Depending on your vitamin D levels (measured by blood test) you may need to take anywhere between 1-5+ drops per day.
Vitamin B complex
There are eight vitamins which make up the B-complex. These are all essential for metabolic processes that include: energy production, red blood cell synthesis/ formation, protein and carbohydrate metabolism, brain function and development, immune function and hormone activity. Of all the 8 B-vitamins, vitamin B6 and B12 are especially connected to immunity and infection susceptibility. If you are experiencing recurrent colds and infections, it is possible that you may have a vitamin B deficiency that should be explored by your health care provider. A simple blood test or hair-mineral analysis will give you this information.
Zinc
Zinc is an essential nutrient required for good health, as it is involved in cell growth and function. Deficiencies may cause growth retardation in children, immune deficiency, as well as problems relating to skin and mood. Some studies suggest that the use of zinc can have benefits in childhood diarrhoea, chronic hepatitis C, adult shingles, tuberculosis, pneumonia, respiratory tract infections and the common cold.
Vitamin C
Most people have either heard or know that vitamin C (a powerful antioxidant) offers assistance to the immune system. Public perception is that oranges and citrus fruit are the best choice in obtaining vitamin C from food, where in actual fact kiwi fruit, capsicum, garlic, olive leaf extract, berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) and guava contain greater amounts of vitamin C per gram.
In the bloodstream, vitamin C acts to reduce oxidative stress by destroying free radicals, and as a result slowing the rate of cellular aging and damage. Over time, studies have shown that vitamin C may reduce inflammation and histamine (associated with allergies) as well as enhancing the cell mediated immune response.
Probiotics
Probiotics or ‘microflora’ aid the body by maintaining balance between the gastrointestinal tract and the immune system. With the polluted environment we live in and with regular antibiotic therapy, ‘unhealthy’ or ’bad’ bacteria can proliferate in the gut. This bacteria overgrows and inhibits the function of the ‘healthy’ or ‘good’ bacteria that exists. This causes a disruption in the gut, often leading to gut dysfunction (dysbiosis), symptoms, reduced immunity, inflammation and disease.
To correct this scenario, health care
practitioners recommend probiotic supplementation to thus prevent disease,
maintain general health and in the treatment of conditions such as; eczema, psoriasis,
immune compromise, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diarrhoea and in coeliac or
crohn’s disease. Good quality probiotics must be refrigerated to keep the
bacteria alive. Stay clear of supermarket quality probiotic products and drinks
as these often contain artificial sweeteners, sugar and colouring.
IMMUNE BOOSTERS IN THE PANTRY
Garlic
For thousands of years in communities around the world garlic has been used for its powerful medicinal properties. Apparently, in 3000 BC the Egyptian and Roman workman ate raw garlic as they believed it enhanced their physical endurance and strength. Garlic contains a powerful compound known as Allicin for which studies show have anti-microbial properties (antibacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-parasitic). In addition, Allicin has been found to have anti-cancer, anti-oxidant and anti-diabetic effects, as well as positive effects on cardiovascular health (reducing blood pressure and cholesterol).
Honey
Honey, propolis and royal jelly are special
yields of the beehive. Since ancient times, honey has been an important part of
traditional medicine, and in more recent times has been utilised in hospitals
for wound healing with impressive results. The propolis and royal jelly portion
of honey has been found to have anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant,
immuno-modulatory, hypotensive, disinfectant, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral
effects. In a nut shell, the famous ‘sore throat’ home remedy of honey &
lemon tea has credibility!
HELP
FROM COMPLIMENTARY HEALTH CARE
Chiropractic
For over 120 years in clinics around the world, Chiropractors have observed case-by-case that their patients seem to have greater immune resiliency, finding that they either avoid colds or that they resolve faster with symptoms being milder than previous times… This may be a strange phenomena or there may be scientific research supporting it. Non-the-less if we take care of all aspects of our body as a whole then we have a greater chance of great health overall.
Naturopathy
Both of these complimentary health modalities are age old. With holism,
they both aim to boost the body’s ability to function optimally by correcting
mineral and vitamin deficiencies or excesses. Treatment is often administered
by the prescription of colloidal preparations, herbs, vitamin and mineral
supplements. If compliance is strong, these health care measures are often
quite effective.
Whichever way you choose to manage your winter sniffles is up to you, conversely it is possible to avoid antibiotic therapy and recurrent illness and to boost your immune system or enhance your overall health. An abundance of health promoting antioxidants, minerals & vitamins exist in your pantry, fridge, at your local grocer or at your health care provider. Stock up on all of the goodness that nature and natural health care has to offer and good health to you and your family!
References:
- Viuda-Martos, M etal. (2008). Functional Properties of Honey, Propolis, and Royal Jelly. Journ Food Sci. Vol 73(9). Pg. R117- R124.
- Hirano, T. (2008). Roles of Zinc and Zinc Signalling in Immunity: Zinc as an Intracellular Signalling Molecule. Advan in Imunn. Vol 97. Pg. 149-176
- Prasad, AS. (2009). Zinc: role in immunity, oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. Clin Nutrit & Metab Care. Vol 12(6). Pg 646-652.
- Ronzio, RZ. (2001). Nutritional support for the immune system. The Amer Journ Natural Med.
- Slosberg, M. (2001). Immune Responses to Spinal Manipulation. Dynamic Chiropractic.
- Harris, JC etal. (2000). Antimicrobial properties of Allium sativum (garlic). Appl Microbio Biotech. Vol 57 (3). Pg. 282-286.
- Rahman, MS (2007). Allicin and Other Functional Active Components in Garlic: Health Benefits and Bioavailability. Internat Journ Food Prop. Vol 10(2). Pg. 245-268.
- Brinkeborn RM etal. (1999). Echinaforce and other echinacea fresh plant preparations in the treatment of the common cold. A randomized, placebo controlled, double-blind clinical trial. Phytomedicine. Vol 6 (1). Pg.1-6.
- Al-Waili NS & Saloom KY. (1999). Effects of topical honey on post-operative wound infections due to gram positive and gram negative bacteria following caesarean sections and hysterectomies. Eur J Med Res. Vol 26 (3). Pg.126-30.
- Sachin, SA. Etal. (2007). Evaluation of echinacea for the prevention and treatment of the common cold: a meta-analysis. The Lancet Infectious Diseases. Vol 7 (7). Pg. 473-480.
- Cannell, JJ. (2006). Epidemic influenza and vitamin D. Epidem and Infect. Vol 34. Pg. 1129-1140.
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