Immune System: Your Questions Answered

Several nutrients are involved in normal immune function, including Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Zinc, Selenium, and Iron. These vitamins and minerals participate in various aspects of the immune system's normal operation and general wellbeing. Vitamin C is found in many fruits and vegetables and acts as an antioxidant in the body. Vitamin D receptors are present throughout the body, with sunlight being a natural source along with certain foods. Zinc is involved in numerous enzyme reactions and is found in foods like oysters, meat, beans, and nuts. Selenium is present in Brazil nuts, seafood, and some meats, while iron can be obtained from both animal and plant sources, though they differ in absorption rates. Other nutrients related to general wellbeing include Vitamin A in orange and green vegetables, B vitamins from whole grains and legumes, and Vitamin E in nuts and seeds.

Various lifestyle factors have relationships with immune function. A nutrient-rich diet featuring a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and lean proteins provides nutrients the body utilizes for many functions. Regular sleep of 7-9 hours nightly coincides with the body's natural maintenance processes. Mindfulness, meditation, or gentle movement are practices often associated with stress management, which has connections to various bodily systems. Regular moderate physical activity is related to circulation and general health. Hydration plays a role in how the body transports nutrients and maintains normal functions. Wholefood supplements are options some people consider alongside these lifestyle practices, particularly during seasonal transitions. Rather than "boosting" immunity, these practices collectively relate to the body's natural functions and general resilience.

Various nutrients and herbs have historical connections to seasonal changes. Vitamin C from whole food sources contributes to normal immune function. Zinc has numerous roles in the body and is found in foods like oysters, pumpkin seeds, and legumes. Traditional herbs like Elderberry have been used in folk practices for centuries during winter months. Echinacea has a long history of traditional use and functional mushrooms are part of many traditional health systems, including traditional Chinese practices. Probiotics are associated with the gut microbiome, which is involved in many bodily functions. For general seasonal wellness, many people maintain consistent nutrition year-round and may incorporate specific ingredients during seasonal transitions or times of increased physical demands.

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient with numerous functions in the body related to general wellbeing. As a water-soluble vitamin, it participates in various biochemical processes and acts as an antioxidant, interacting with free radicals produced during normal metabolism. Vitamin C is involved in collagen formation, which is a structural component of skin, blood vessels, and other tissues. It plays a role in iron absorption from plant-based foods, which relates to normal iron levels. Vitamin C occurs naturally in citrus fruits, berries, kiwi, capsicum, broccoli, and many other fruits and vegetables. The human body does not produce Vitamin C independently, making dietary intake relevant. During periods of increased physiological demands, some people choose to include wholefood Vitamin C supplements in their diet.

The digestive system has numerous connections to overall wellbeing, with relationships to many aspects of health. A significant portion of immune tissue is located in the gut, highlighting the association between digestive and immune function. The gut microbiome consists of trillions of microorganisms that are involved in various bodily processes, from digestion to the production of certain nutrients. These beneficial bacteria interact with food components, particularly fibers, and produce compounds that have relationships with different bodily functions. The gut contains extensive neural connections known as the gut-brain axis, demonstrating the complex relationship between digestive function, mood, and cognitive aspects. Dietary and lifestyle factors related to digestive health include fiber-rich foods, fermented products like yoghurt and sauerkraut, adequate hydration, regular physical activity, and stress management practices.