The immune system does an excellent job of protecting the body from various harmful microorganisms. However there are times when the immune system becomes weak and unable to perform its function properly. There are many ways to strengthen the immune system.


The important thing to remember is that the immune system requires balance and harmony to function properly. This can be achieved through an improvement in diet, intake of nutritional supplements and positive changes in the lifestyle. One needs to follow certain health guidelines in order to keep the immune system strong and better able to defend the body from infection.


For this reason it is also important to avoid any habits or activities that could compromise your immunity such as excessive alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking. Good hygiene is also essential and could involve such basic requirements as washing the hands before handling food or eating meals. Your diet should be one that is high in beneficial foods such as whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables and fiber. Those with medical conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure should take their medications properly and go for regular health screenings. Sleep is also necessary for the efficient functioning of the immune system and it is important to get at least eight hours of sleep every night.
 
There are a large number of natural remedies and herbal preparations available today that claim to boost immunity and therefore improve your health. Some of these may be able to bring about certain changes in immune function. However every individual is unique and therefore the immune system may also respond differently. Here are 10 Natural Immunity Boosters that are known to be effective in strengthening the immune system and enhancing its function:

1.    Vitamins E and C - Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that triggers the production of cells that are able to find and destroy germs. It can also prevent a deterioration of immune function due to ageing. The vitamin is present in a variety of foods such as grains, seeds and oils. 100 to 400 mg is the daily required amount of vitamin E, however this may vary depending on your lifestyle.

Vitamin C is the most popular immune booster. It stimulates an increased production of white blood cells and antibodies. It is also known to help in reducing the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and certain cancers. Approximately 200 mg of vitamin C suffices for your daily intake. It can be obtained from various fruits and vegetables.
 
2.    Glutathione – This is an antioxidant that is known to make the immune cells such as the T cells and B cells live longer. Therefore it improves the production of antibodies. About 500 mg of glutathione per day is recommended.

3.    CoQ10 – A powerful antioxidant, CoQ10, improves the ability of your immune system to destroy viruses. 200 mg of CoQ10 per day is recommended.

4.    Quercetin – This is a bioflavonoid that enhances the health and functioning of the cells. Studies have shown that it helps in blocking the production of substances that cause inflammation. This improves the immune response especially in case of seasonal viruses. Quercetin may be consumed in the form of extract and 500 mg per day is advisable.

5.    Garlic – Garlic has many beneficial health effects due to its release of the enzyme allinase. It may be consumed in raw form or may be added to food while cooking. A clove of garlic a day is recommended. In the form of extract, it may be taken in the quantity of ¼ to ½ teaspoon daily.

6.    Turmeric – This is an age-old natural health remedy and has been used in curing and preventing various ailments. It has strong immune boosting properties. About 200 mg of turmeric daily helps in supporting immune function.

7.    Grapeseed Extract – Grapeseeds contain certain properties that help in improving the function of the natural killer or NK cells. These cells are responsible for seeking out and killing germs. It is advisable to consume 500 mg of grapeseed extract per day.

8.    Zinc and Selenium – These are both important minerals that help to naturally strengthen immunity by stimulating the B cells. This enables the antibodies to bind to viruses and destroy them. Zinc may be consumed in the quantity of 50 mg daily and selenium in the quantity of 250 mg daily.

9.    Beta Glucan – This is a type of fiber that also helps to stimulate the functioning of the NK cells. These cells constitute the body’s first line of defense against infection-causing microorganisms. The carbohydrate component of the betal glucan fiber binds to flu viruses and allows the immune cells to destroy it. 100 mg of beta glucan per day is recommended.

10.    Melatonin – The hormone, melatonin, is another natural immune booster which regulates the manner in which the immune system communicates with the immune cells. 5 – 10 mg of melatonin may be taken at bedtime.