The typical New Mexican foods: onions, garlic and green chili (actually all chili) are a fantastic way to build your immune system for winter and a great beginning for food lovers! It’s also a bit past time to get a jump on cold/flu season with a good overall Naturopathic checkup. Knowing what your exact issues are is so very helpful!
Your body is different from everyone else’s! You may suspect one thing and it may turn out to be something completely different. Most people do not realize just how crucial their digestive system is to strong immunity. At least 65-85% of your immune system depends on the health of your digestive tract. So, if you are someone who gets sick often—it may be a digestive issue. You don’t have to have digestive pain or heartburn to have an affected immune system. Most often we find that food allergies are a huge contributing factor. Just reducing or cutting out dairy, wheat, gluten-containing grains and sugar from your diet is
a good start. Lack of nutrient absorption compromises your immune function, mood and brain.
Candida is also major factor you don’t want to overlook. Candida (yeast) overgrowth is rampant among Americans due to poor sugar-ridden and yeast filled diets. So many say “yes I have yeast, but what’s new? Everyone does.” It’s important to note that an overgrowth of yeast can become severe disease over time. We also find that people who have consistent bronchitis or lung issues often have a congested colon that began with yeast or heavy metals. There are more neurotransmitters in the digestive system than in the brain itself, so a great deal of depression actually stems from the digestive system!
Emotions also play a large role in how well your immune system functions. Stressful situations, loss of a loved one or a traumatic event directly affects your body and its ability to fight flu viruses and bacteria; but also puts you at risk for much more serious health problems. Trauma affects neurotransmitters and that affects your cells. Compromised sleep also affects immunity.
Janet L. Hall is a Certified Naturopathic Doctor, Kinesiologist, Biofeedback Specialist and Nutritional Counselor. Her center is dedicated to helping people “Rise Above” anything in life! 505-294-WELL (9355) www.alternativewellnesscenter.org