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Published Apr 15, 2022

19 - The Role of the Immune System & How it's Affected by Nutrition w/ Dr. Jen Pfleghaar

Dr. Jen Pfleghaar reveals how integrative medicine can transform patient care through blending conventional and holistic approaches, while discussing crucial topics like personalized vaccine decisions, the role of nutrition, exercise, and sleep in boosting immunity, and the connection between gut health and immune function.
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  • Nutrition

    emphasizes the critical role of nutrition in bolstering the immune system. She advises avoiding sugar and alcohol, which can weaken immunity by reducing disease-fighting cells. An anti-inflammatory diet rich in whole foods, fruits, and vegetables is recommended to maintain gut health and support immune function 1. also suggests increasing vitamin C intake for children when they are sick, using supplements like dehist, which contains NAC, a precursor to glutathione beneficial for respiratory health 2.

    Nutrition, food is medicine, and honestly, the biggest changes are with food and diet.

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    Ensuring children stay hydrated during illness is crucial, as their bodies prioritize immune response over digestion.

       

    Exercise

    Exercise plays a significant role in enhancing immune function by promoting lymph movement and reducing cortisol levels. highlights the importance of regular physical activity, such as walking or rebounding, to prevent stagnant lymph flow and boost immunity 1. She advises listening to one's body during illness, suggesting gentle walks and rest to aid recovery 3.

    Exercise has a positive effect on immune function. The other important thing about exercise is that you are moving your lymph.

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    Maintaining a strong body through exercise can also help manage stress, further supporting immune health.

       

    Sleep

    Adequate sleep is vital for a robust immune system, particularly in enhancing vaccine efficacy. discusses a study showing that well-rested individuals have a better antibody response to vaccines 3. She stresses the importance of avoiding late-night eating and alcohol to ensure quality sleep, which is crucial for overall health and immunity 4.

    People that slept had a better antibody response to the vaccine.

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    Building resilience through good sleep habits and stress management techniques, such as meditation, can significantly enhance immune function.

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