Transfer Factor from Colostrum

As indicated, bovine colostrum is very effective is helping the immune system destroy bacterial, viral, and fungal infections (including candida) in that it boosts the natural killer cell function and glutathione production too when sufficient substrates (the amino acids cysteine, glycine, and glutamine) are available. It has been used effectively in reducing inflammation in autoimmune conditions. It also increases Growth Hormone (hGH) that benefits the transport of amino acids into cells, and elevates the uptake of blood glucose, and causes greater utilization of fat for energy. It (hGH) also tends to increase muscle mass. Increased production of growth hormone greatly increases the need for EFAs.  

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have been able to demonstrate for the first time that children who face a greater risk for the illness through family history of major depression produce significantly less growth hormone than their normal peers when given growth hormone releasing hormone. This builds on their research from 1994 that discovered children and adolescents with acute episodes of major depression secrete less growth hormone during and after their illness. 

There is a product called “Transfer Factor” (TF) derived from colostrum in which the factor or factors in colostrum that boost the immune system’s ability to recognize antigens (foreign substances or bugs) it has never been exposed to, and destroy them, is concentrated to about 100 to 1. This “messenger molecule” is not destroyed in the stomach as a protein antibody would be. Thus, the immunity of the cow, which contains many of the antibodies of the human, is transferred to the human. It is also said to be an immune modulator, boosting Natural Killer Cell function and activity significantly while either boosting or suppressing T-cell activity as needed. You may learn more about it, and purchase it from 4Life™ at: www.supercolostrum.com/colostrum/Information/information2.htm. There is a general “Transfer Factor”, and there are specific “Transfer Factor” products, (e.g., one where the source is infected with HHV-6 should enable the body to overcome a chronic infection by that virus.). There is a version of “Transfer Factor” from Chisolm Biological Laboratory that first used the chicken, and now the egg, as the source. Dr. Fudenberg’s group did considerable work with this, I understand. While the 4Life™ “Transfer Factor” gives the wide exposure of the cow to the human, the Chisolm ImmunFactor™ gives the free-range exposure of the chicken, plus the chicken is then exposed to specific human antigens to produce eight combinations of “Antigen Specific Transfer Factors”. Thus, several select antigens such as various viruses and candida can be specifically targeted (www.chisolmbio.com or 800-664-1333). The need and benefit of such products is easy to understand when one recognizes most of these children are suffering with one or more low grade, chronic infections, and their immune system either does not recognize it, or does not have the antibodies sufficient to destroy it. Dr. Hugh H. Fudenberg has done the definitive work with TF in autism. An abstract of a study with autistic youngsters follows:  

Fudenberg, H. H. Dialysable lymphocyte extract (DLyE) in infantile onset autism: a pilot study. Biotherapy 1996;9(1-3):143-7. Immuno Therapeutics Research Foundation, Spartanburg, S.C., USA. Abstract: 40 infantile autistic patients were studied. They ranged from 6 years to 15 years of age at entry. Twenty-two were cases of classical infantile autism; whereas 18 lacked one or more clinical defects associated with infantile autism—dubbed “pseudo-autism”. Of the 22 with classic autism, 21 responded to transfer factor (TF) treatment by gaining at least 2 points in symptom severity score average (SSSA); and 10 became normal in that they were mainstreamed in school, and clinical characteristics were fully normalized. Of the 18 remaining, 4 responded to TF, some to other therapies. After cessation of TF therapy, 5 in the autistic group and 3 of the pseudo-autistic group regressed, but they did not drop as low as baseline levels. PMID: 8993773, UI: 97146917.  

I understand that the product should be used for three or more months, and then to prevent regression, it should be pulsed (used for a few days) every three months.

Immunity-enhancing nutritional supplements

Colostrum

  Vitamin C 1-3 g a day.

Vitamin A best taken in the form of beta carotene 10,000 units a day.

Vitamin E 200-44 international units a day.

Vitamin B complex 1 capsule a day.

Calcium pantothenate (B₅ ) 500 mg a day (this is particularly advisable if allergic symptoms are present).

Folic acid 20-50 mcg a day ( this is important for the correct differentiation of T-lymphocytes into suppressive and killer cells).

Selenium 100 mcg a day.

Zinc 20-25 mg a day (this should be taken at night).

Magnesium 250 mg a day.

Evening primrose oil 250 1-3 times a day (this is advisable since candida toxins can interfere with fatty acid production, in turn important for T-cell production).

New Immune Research

Immune System Boosting
by Vicki Koenig, MS, RD, CDN

"This remarkable product will boost your immune system!"

We hear this all the time. What does it mean exactly? I know I have an immune system, but does it really need boosting? It does.

Where is your immune system? It's actually stationed throughout your body, generally found in your lymphoid organs. These organs include the bone marrow and thymus, (located behind the breast bone) and include lymph nodes, the spleen, the appendix, tonsils and adenoids and tissue in the small intestine known as Peyer's patches. The blood and lymphatic system that transports lymphocytes around the body is also considered part of the immune system. The cells of your immune system originate in your bone marrow: the soft tissue in the hollow shafts of long bones. Here, two groups of cells are made: lymphocytes and phagocytes. These both are the first line of defense: these are the leukocytes or white blood cells.

There are two major types of lymphocytes: B cells and T cells. B cells mature completely in the Bone marrow. T cells migrate to the Thymus. (Hence, the "B" and the "T".) T cells are "educated" to become immuno-competent, meaning that they are able to recognize self and non-self cells and can instigate an immune reaction to non-self cells. Upon cell maturation, these lymphocytes, both B cells and T cells, congregate in immune organs and lymph nodes and also will circulate throughout the body via the blood stream and lymphatic system. In this way, the body has important armies of defense located throughout the body. Lymph nodes are clustered in the armpits, neck, groin and abdomen. A lymph node contains all the specialized immune cells needed for an all out affront on an invader. Once the lymphocytes and other assorted immune cells are in the bloodstream, they patrol everywhere looking for foreign antigens to fight off any attacks. When your lymph nodes are swollen, you are usually "fighting" some type of assault on your immune system.

The phagocytes act like the immune system garbage collectors. In this group, there are monocytes, macrophages, neutrophils, eosinophils and basophils: each with distinct functions. They surround or envelop foreign particles, microorganisms, as well as aging or damaged cells and then ingest, digest or destroy them.

The lymphocytes are the stars of the immune system response. They have memory of past invaders encoded in them to keep our immune system functioning properly. B cells are responsible for the production of antibodies: specific to the antigen or invading substance. The antibodies are extremely specific to the chemical structure of the antigen and will remember it if exposed again thereby launching an immediate defense against it. T cells are also programmed to recognize invaders. They don't release antibodies but will attack antigens by secreting specialized proteins called Lymphokines. Lymphokines act as chemical messengers. Perhaps the most well known one produced by T cells and macrophages is interferon, a potent one with antiviral properties.

Our body's defense mechanisms are elegant and very specific. We know we are born with the ability to thwart an attack on our cells and tissues, but we can also enhance it.

Immune Boosting Plant Products
It's difficult to definitively state all the plant products that boost the immune system. Because these are not drugs produced by a drug company interested in doing research to support the use of their product, there are not enough controlled, double blind studies. There is enough information to discuss some of the very well known plant source immune boosters. There are many products that have a reputation of immune boosting based on case studies or testimonials. The following have more reliable data to actually state what the plant product or supplement is thought to be doing to our immune system.

Echinacea is one of the most well known herbal immune boosters. Echinacea's effects are not yet fully understood, but it is known that a number of constituents stimulate the immune system to counter both bacterial and viral infections. The polysaccharides in Echinacea have an apparent ability to inhibit the capability of viruses to enter and take over cells, while the alkamides are antibacterial and antifungal. Echinacea also has a general stimulating effect on the body's immune system and is currently being investigated for a possible increase in production of killer T cells as well as phagocytosis stimulation.

Astragalus root is known for helping with digestive ailments as well as possibly helping to prevent tumor spreading. It is thought to boost resistance to colds and flu by possibly increasing the number of bone marrow stem cells and lymph tissue and then stimulating production of the B cells and T cells. It contains polysaccharides that increase the immunity response by stimulating the phagocytic activity of macrophages in the gastrointestinal tract. It is thought to improve the actions of the B cells and T cells. It promotes the production of interferon, preventing viral reproduction and increasing viral resistance.

Both Echinacea and Astragalus show promise for boosting the immune system but are not recommended to take on an extended basis (over two weeks at a time).

Ginseng has been known to boost energy but ginseng also appears to stimulate immune function. The effects of Korean ginseng on the immune system have been studied. Two trials have shown that in healthy volunteers who take ginseng, certain immune cells are more numerous or more active than in people who take a placebo, or sugar pill.

The Probiotics: Lactobacillus bulgaricus, L. casei, Bifidobacterium and Streptococcus Thermophilus that are found in yogurt have been found to boost the immune system by increasing phagocytosis or macrophage activity. Macrophages are "friendly" or beneficial bacteria that are part of the phagocytosis immune system. They actually envelop and "eat" invading harmful bacteria. They increase the activity of the cells that ingest dead and invading cells. They also increase the immune response in a positive way to vaccination and infection. They increase antibody production and other immune cells.

Probiotics naturally boost your immune system. They produce natural antibiotics that inhibit the growth and activity of pathogenic microflora (harmful, disease-producing organisms in your gastrointestinal tract). They increase the body's production of gamma interferon, an important antiviral molecule made by T cells.

Reducing Free Radicals and Detoxification
Another way that plant products improve our immune system is how they help with detoxification through our liver. We come in contact with thousands of different chemicals and need to be able to eliminate them. These chemicals can cause anything from asthma to cancer to food allergies and sensitivities if they are not eliminated. Fortunately, our body is capable of fending them off because of good nutrition where we provide plenty of nutrients. When the body comes into contact with a toxic chemical like cigarette smoke or pesticide residue, a Phase I enzyme from a liver cell grabs hold of it and attaches an oxygen molecule to it. In Phase II of this detoxification process, a second enzyme attaches the toxic molecule to a large carrier molecule and carries it away to be excreted in urine or feces. The key is having enough of the Phase II enzymes because a circulating molecule with oxygen can be even more dangerous than before. These can become what are called "free radicals" and left alone, they can damage human cells and tissues. They are implicated as the causes of many diseases including cancer and heart disease. With plenty of phase II enzymes, this can be prevented.

Many foods actually stimulate the body to make more enzymes. Some of these foods are from the cruciferous family like broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, and Brussels sprouts. Soybean products also stimulate your body to make more Phase II enzymes. These are found in tofu, soymilk, edamame(whole soybeans), and tempeh. Green onion is also an enzyme booster and cooking doesn't destroy its ability.

Plant sterols, which are fats that are found in the seeds of pumpkins, yams, soy, rice and some herbs, have been shown to enhance the effectiveness of T cells. Daily intake of these foods might be good for daily immune support.

Nutrients that enhance our immune system are Vitamin C, Vitamin E, the B-vitamins, Zinc and Magnesium. These nutrients are either potent anti-oxidants capable of stopping the free-radical cascade of tissue damage or are involved in the enzymes that help detoxify damaging chemicals.

Four Diet Habits that Weaken the Immune System

• Too much sugar. It has been found that eating or drinking 100 grams or ½ cup sugar can reduce the white blood cells' (WBC) ability to kill germs by 40%. The decrease in immune response starts in less than 30 minutes and can last up to 5 hours. Too much sugar isn't healthy for anyone but especially those with an impaired immune system.
  
• Too much alcohol. To begin with, alcohol uses up nutrients to process it. Secondly, like sugar, it reduces the WBC's ability to kill germs. At high doses, WBC's do not multiply, are less effective at destroying cancer cells and decrease the phagocytosis ability necessary in attacking tumor cells. One drink does not have a significant effect, but three or more do. Perhaps this is why alcohol increases the incidence of certain cancers.
  
• Ingesting food allergens or antigens. With constant exposure to potential food allergens, eating a poor diet and with exposure to other chemicals and some medications, the intestinal wall gets damaged. This allows more allergens into the bloodstream where the body can become sensitized to it and therefore become allergic. This is called the Leaky Gut Syndrome.
  
• Obesity. Too much body fat can lead to a suppressed immune system. The WBC's can't multiply adequately; fewer antibodies are produced, thereby affecting the body's ability to deal with an immune assault.

We can have a positive effect on our immune system. In a time and culture where we are exposed to many chemicals, pollution and poor diet, there are healthy ways to counteract the negatives. A diet rich in plant products, fruits, vegetables, low fat dairy products, whole grains garnished with lean proteins and low in sugar will support a strong immune system.

One more really good way to boost your immune system and it's free. Laugh and feel good! A depressed mind can cause a depressed body. Laughter actually increases production of an antibody that is responsible for our first line of defense against bacterial infections. Laughter, lovemaking and exercise are the best medicine of all!

References:

http://www.immunecentral.com/ An excellent website providing comprehensive information on the immune system, diseases and tips for boosting.

http://www.stopgettingsick.com/immunity/immunity.cfm An interesting website with numerous up-to -date links on current issues.

http://rex.nci.nih.gov/PATIENTS/INFO_TEACHER/bookshelf/NIH_immune/html/imm08.html Understanding the Immune System: T Cells and Lymphokines

http://my.webmd.com/content/article/1728.58173 Ginseng May Enhance Immune Function. An article on WebMD June 2000.

http://www.mnwelldir.org/docs/immune/immune1.htm A comprehensive article on "Your Immune System". The Wellness Directory of Minnesota.

Boost In Immune Response Fights Common Cold

Nursing facility residents who consumed 200 International Units (IUs) of vitamin E daily for one year were less likely to get the sniffles than those who took a placebo. Scientists funded by the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) found that those who took the moderate supplements were 20 percent less likely to contract upper respiratory infections, such as colds.

In immune system studies on the elderly, participants who received 200 international units of vitamin E daily for 1 year were 20 percent less likely to suffer from upper respiratory infections, such as colds, than those who received placebos. (Photo by Ken Hammond)

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The study was led by Simin Nikbin Meydani, director of the Nutritional Immunology Laboratory at the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University in Boston, Mass. The findings are important because, due to aging, the elderly have lowered immune responses and incur greater health risks from upper respiratory infections.

The scientists studied 617 people over 65 years of age who met the study's eligibility requirements. All 451 participants who completed the study were residents in some type of long-term-care nursing facility located in or around the Boston area.

About half of the participants were given the daily dose of 200 IUs of vitamin E; the remaining participants received a daily placebo capsule containing only four IUs of vitamin E. To help control other dietary factors that affect immune response, all participants received a capsule containing 50 percent of the recommended dietary allowance for essential micronutrients. Each volunteer was examined for health status on a weekly basis.

Good dietary sources of vitamin E include certain cereals, wheat germ, nuts--especially sunflower seeds and almonds--leafy green vegetables and vegetable oils. The National Academy of Sciences has set an upper tolerable limit for vitamin E of 1,500 IUs a day.

The study results were published in The Journal of the American Medical Association.

Boost immuntiy: 3 Immune-Boosters That Help Protect You From Colds and Flu

How many of you get the flu each and every year? Unless, you are one of the lucky few, I�fd bet that most of you answered �eI do�f to my question.

No one likes to get the flu. It makes you feel tired, achy, irritable and basically you just want to stay in bed.

So what can we do to protect ourselves from the flu this year? Well the NHS�fs recommendation is to get a flu jab. But what about the people who don�ft like to get shots or are allergic to hens�f eggs (the vaccine viruses are grown on eggs) or the people who just don�ft like to put chemicals in their bodies?

The good news is that there are herbs available that can help to prevent and treat the flu without having to resort to the flu jab. The even better news is that there are clinical trials supporting their efficacy.

Natural immune-booster you can use all year long
Echinacea is already the bestknown herbal product for colds and flu. But recently it has suffered from well-publicised problems involving poor product quality and ineffective clinical trials. These problems can really be traced back to the fact that the echinacea supplement market has become crowded, generic, and dominated by cheap, poor quality products.

So the key to the successful use of echinacea to prevent winter illnesses is to know which form to use and how to use it. The best form of this herb is the root, which is rich in phytochemicals known as alkylamides.

There is good clinical evidence for echinacea root�fs cold and flu preventative effects. In fact, several years ago, a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, demonstrated that a liquid extract of echinacea root significantly reduced the incidence of winter infections in medical students (MacIntosh A,  et al. �gPrevention of colds by two herbal formulas in a high stress population.�h Paper presented at the American Association of Naturopathic Pysicians Convention, Coeur d�fAlene, ID, 11/99).

Researchers found that med. students tend to be highly stressed and more susceptible to illness during the winter.

The echinacea liquid consisted of a flavoured blend of E. angustifolia and E. purpurea roots (in equal quantities) standardised to contain at least
1 mg/mL of alkylamides.

Over the course of the trial, researchers tested three dosage protocols on the volunteers: high (4 mL twice/day, corresponding to a daily dose of 4g of the echinacea root combination), followed by medium (3 mL twice/day) followed by low (2 mL twice/day).

The control group had about a 10 per cent infection rate, but in the highest dose echinacea groups, only 2 to 3 per cent of the volunteers got sick.

The baseline preventative dose, which must be taken every day, should contain around 2.5g of echinacea root. When you feel a cold coming on, temporarily increase your dose to 7.5g to 10g per day to ward off the infection, then resume your
baseline dose.

The traditional Chinese way to fight the flu
In addition to echinacea, the traditional Chinese herb andrographis is emerging as another important immune-enhancing herb.  A recent review of many published studies found that andrographis was more effective than placebo in the treatment of respiratory tract infections (J Clin Pharm Ther 2004;29(1): 37-45). Andrographis helps prevent winter infections too.

In a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, 107 healthy children received either andrographis extract tablets (200 mg per day of extract, standardised to 11.2 mg andrographolide) or placebo for three months during the winter �ecold and flu�f season. This dose corresponds to about 1g of the actual herb.

By the end of the third month, there was a significant decrease in the incidence of colds in the andrographis group compared to the placebo group:  The relative risk of catching a cold was 2.1 times lower for the andrographis group (Phytomedicine 1999 ;6(4): 217-23). This study was done in children, so the dose is smaller than it would be for adults.

Adults need to take the equivalent of around 3g per day as a preventative or about 6g per day when you�fre at risk from infections or when you�fre actually sick.

The Siberian secret to boosting your immune system
The final key flu-preventing herb is eleutherococcus, previously known as Siberian ginseng. In one double-blind study of 1,000 workers in a Siberian factory who received eleutherococcus daily for 30 days, researchers observed a 40 per cent reduction in lost work days and a 50 per cent reduction in general illness over a one year period (Farnsworth NR, et al. �eSiberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus): Current Status as an Adaptogen.�f in Economic and Medicinal Plant Research, Volume 1. London: Academic Press, 1985, p 178).

Another placebo-controlled, double-blind German study demonstrated a strong enhancement of immune function, showing an increase in both natural killer cells and T-helper cells in healthy volunteers (Arzneim-Forsch 1987;37(10): 1,193-6). These studies all confirm that eleutherococcus can be considered a powerful, effective immune booster (Arzneim-Forsch 1987;37(10): 1,193-6).

The optimum flu-prevention dose of eleutherococcus is 3 to 4 g. One key point though, is to stop taking eleutherococcus if you do get sick, because high doses during an acute infection are thought to make the illness worse. Instead, you should up your andrographis or echinacea.

You do have to take these herbs year-round to get their full infection-fighting benefits, but that means they�fll already be active – and you�fll be protected – well before flu season sets in. It also means you�fll be protected from colds at other times of the year – like the ones that always seem to come on just as the weather finally gets nice in early summer.

A Shield of Immunity

by David Wolfson, N.D.

Supplements shore up defenses during cold and flu season

The human body is continually protecting itself from the outside world. To shield itself from harmful environmental stimuli, the body employs its cells, biochemicals, organs and tissues. The complex interaction of these physiological systems produces immunity. Some of these systems have dual roles: The digestive system, for example, not only extracts and absorbs nutrients from foods but also destroys pathogenic organisms that may be present in foods. Other immune system components are more focused: White blood cells are specifically designed to destroy invading organisms.

One of the immune system's more extraordinary features is its ability to respond to the environment. When a threat is encountered, the immune system can mount an attack specifically designed to neutralize it. This is demonstrated most clearly in the antigen-antibody interaction. Antigens are proteinlike substances that identify living matter, much like biochemical name tags. When a white blood cell encounters another living organism—a bacterium, virus or normal human cell—it checks the name tag. When the system is working properly, if the tag says anything other than "self," the white blood cell considers the organism a hostile invader. Other immune cells are alerted and information gleaned from the antigen is used to design antibodies precisely configured to destroy both the antigen and the organism that carried it into the body.

Defects in any of the components of the immune system can impair its ability to recognize and neutralize invading organisms and thus increase susceptibility to infectious disease.

How can immune systems be kept at peak operating efficiency? An important clue is contained in the work of Weston Price, D.D.S., a researcher who, almost 60 years ago, observed a high degree of immunity among native cultures he encountered as he traveled the world. Price described cultures free from tuberculosis (one of the most prevalent infections in his time), dental disease, cancer and arthritis in locations including Africa, the Andes Mountains, Melanesia and New Zealand. These highly resistant peoples invariably ate whole, unprocessed foods and were physically active. Price observed that when individuals from such cultures relocated to areas where refined and processed foods were prevalent, they began to contract infectious and degenerative diseases. Upon returning to their native villages their health and immune status recovered.¹

Modern research supports Price's observations. Many studies show that immune function depends on nutrients found primarily in whole, unprocessed foods.² Researchers have also confirmed that physical activity and a healthy emotional state are essential for proper immune function.^3,4

A healthy diet and lifestyle may be the cornerstones of a strong immune system, but what specific measures can be taken when a person is faced with an immune challenge such as the annual cold and flu season?

Nutrients for Immune Support
Fortunately, a wide variety of immune-enhancing nutritional and herbal supplements is available.

Co-Q10 is one nutrient that often goes unrecognized as an immune-system supporter. Immune cells divide more rapidly than most cells and are in constant need of repair and maintenance. All of this work requires energy, and Co-Q10 is a critical factor in energy production pathways. In both animal and human studies Co-Q10 has compensated for immune deficiencies caused by aging or disease.^5,6 One study showed Co-Q10 significantly improved immune function and reduced symptoms in a number of HIV-infected individuals.⁷ Daily Co-Q10 doses range from 20 to 200 mg. I recommend 10 mg twice daily for maintenance, increasing to higher doses during an infection.

Vitamin A as retinol or beta-carotene is a recognized immune-supportive nutrient. Almost a dozen studies demonstrate vitamin A's ability to reduce the incidence and severity of infectious illnesses.^8,9 Vitamin A supports immunity by maintaining the integrity of the body's mucosal surfaces. Mucous membranes such as those of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts act as natural barriers to pathogens. Vitamin A also improves antibody responses and increases white blood cell proliferation. Adding 10,000-15,000 IU per day of vitamin A, or 25,000 IU of mixed carotenoids, to a healthy diet can help boost immune response. Up to 100,000 IU per day can usually be taken safely on a short-term basis.¹⁰ Pregnant women and people with liver conditions, however, should always consult a health care provider before supplementing with vitamin A. In its retinol form, vitamin A has the potential to cause birth defects and liver toxicity.

Vitamin C is the most widely known immune-stimulating nutrient. Numerous studies show that vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, works on several levels to support immune function. In addition to enhancing the activity of immune cells, vitamin C acts as a cofactor in the production of collagen, the principal protein found in all connective tissues. By helping maintain the strength and integrity of connective tissue structures, vitamin C keeps infections from spreading throughout the body.¹¹

I recommend 1 g of vitamin C daily as a preventive measure. Customers should increase their dose at the first sign of a cold, flu or other illness but should not exceed 10 g daily unless they are advised to do so by a health care practitioner.^12,13

Vitamin E is present in higher concentrations in immune cells than in any other cells of the body. Interestingly, white blood cells often use free radicals to help destroy pathogenic organisms. The high concentrations of antioxidant nutrients, including vitamin E, allow the white blood cells to use the destructive power of free radicals without being harmed. Studies show that people with lower serum levels of vitamin E are significantly more susceptible to infection than those with higher levels¹³ and that supplemental vitamin E can improve immune responses in both sick and healthy individuals.^14,15 I recommend 200-400 IU daily and up to 800 IU at the first sign of infection.^13-15

Zinc accelerates the growth of immune cells while inhibiting the replication of the cold-causing rhinoviruses.¹⁶ Zinc also helps maintain the health of the thymus gland and improves the function of lymphocytes and phagocytic immune cells, all of which are vital to immune system function.^17,18 Clinical trials confirm zinc's usefulness in combating infectious disease. In one study, zinc gluconate lozenges were tested against placebo in a group of 100 patients with cold symptoms. Each zinc lozenge contained 13.3 mg of elemental zinc. Patients took one lozenge every two hours while awake. Those in the zinc group experienced significantly less coughing, headaches, nasal congestion, hoarseness and sore throats than the placebo group. Side effects were minimal—mostly harmless reactions to the taste of the lozenge.¹⁹ These positive effects of zinc in adults have not been proven in children.

Zinc supplementation can range from 15 mg daily for prevention to 100 mg daily for acute infections. If a cold is accompanied by a sore throat, recommend zinc lozenges. These are usually more effective because they bring the zinc in direct contact with oral mucosa. One cautionary note: Taking high doses of any mineral long-term can cause other mineral imbalances and zinc is no exception. A zinc-copper imbalance can be particularly problematic—several studies suggest that high levels of zinc relative to copper may promote atherosclerosis and increase mortality due to coronary artery disease.²⁰

Probiotic microorganisms, although technically not nutrients, are nonetheless important to immune function. Lactobacillus and bifidobacteria species have been shown to increase numbers of circulating lymphocytes,²¹ stimulate phagocytic activity of white blood cells,²² elevate antibody responses²³ and increase production of immune-modulating chemicals such as gamma interferon.²⁴ I recommend probiotic products that also contain a prebiotic such as fructooligosaccharides (FOS). FOS are carbohydrates that support the growth of probiotic organisms in the gastrointestinal tract. A recent study in Lancet showed that oligosaccharide molecules can bind to pathogenic microbes, thereby preventing their attachment to host cells.²⁵ For immune support, direct your customers to refrigerated probiotic products that contain 3 billion to 4 billion organisms per gram. For maintenance I recommend 1 g either several times a week or daily. For therapeutic purposes, increase the dose to 1 g three times daily.

Herbs for Immune Support
Herbal medicines have been used throughout history to enhance human resistance to disease. Modern herb research and new understanding of the immune system have explained many mechanisms by which these herbs work.

Echinacea (Echinacea spp.), one of the most widely known immune-supporting herbs, exerts some direct antimicrobial action but primarily boosts immune-cell activity and prevents bacterial enzymes from breaking down the body's tissues.^26,27 Clinical trial results are mixed, some showing little or no activity,²⁸ others demonstrating a marked ability to reduce cold symptoms.²⁹ (For more on echinacea, see "Doctor's Insight.")

At the first signs of a cold or flu, several 1-mL droppers of echinacea tincture taken every two to three hours may help abort the illness. During the course of an infection, a similar dose can be taken at less frequent intervals. Standardized echinacea formulations should be taken according to package directions.

Berberine-containing herbs have long been used for their antibiotic action and toning effects on the respiratory tract. Barberry (Berberis vulgaris), goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) and Oregon grape (Berberis aquifolium) all contain the antimicrobial phytochemical berberine.

Studies confirm berberine's antimicrobial activity against a wide variety of bacterial, fungal and parasitic species.²⁷ In one study berberine was shown to block streptococci from adhering to epithelial cells, the type of cell found lining the respiratory passages.³⁰ This suggests berberine-containing herbs may be particularly useful in strep infections. Other studies have shown the compound has a protective effect on thymus gland cells³¹ and supports other immune cells.³² Any of the berberine-containing herbs can be taken on their own, or with echinacea and other immune-supportive herbs. All berberine-containing herbs should be avoided during pregnancy because they may cause premature uterine contractions.

Garlic (Allium sativum) has more lore surrounding its ability to fight illness than any other herb. In vitro and animal testing seem to support garlic's use as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial,^33,34 but there are few human clinical trials. Epidemiological evidence suggests garlic may reduce the incidence of certain types of cancer,³⁵ but whether this is the result of improved immune function is not clear. It seems prudent to include garlic in the diet on a regular basis as a preventive measure and to increase its consumption, either fresh or in extract form, during cold and flu season.

Other herbs are also reported to have either antimicrobial or immune-enhancing effects. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) and Lomatium (Lomatium dissectum) seem particularly suited for treating viral infections. All three have demonstrated virucidal activity in vitro.^36,37 Licorice has also been shown to increase the activity of macrophages and natural killer cells—critical elements of the immune system.³⁸ People with high blood pressure, however, should consult a health care practitioner before using licorice. Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), ginseng (Panax ginseng), and several species of mushroom including shiitake (Lentinus edodes), reishi (Ganoderma ludidum) and maitake (Grifolia frondosa) have been used historically to increase resistance. Astragalus enhances T cell function.³⁹ Panax ginseng has been shown to increase numbers and activity of lymphocytes, neutrophils and T cells.⁴⁰ And shiitake, reishi and maitake mushrooms all contain polysaccharide and protein complexes that stimulate immune cells and their ability to produce antimicrobial substances.⁴¹ All of these medicinal plants can be taken alone or in combination with other immune-supportive supplements.

Immune health is ultimately our last defense against disease-causing organisms. The antibiotics upon which we have grown so dependent do nothing to support our own resistance and in fact have created antibiotic-resistant organisms. If we are to maintain our ability to ward off harmful environmental organisms we must shift our focus from reliance on drugs to enhancing our innate immunity.

Sidebars:
Prescription For Wellness

David Wolfson, N.D., is a naturopathic physician, nutrition educator, and writer as well as a consultant to the natural products industry.

References

1. Price W. Nutrition and Physical Degeneration. La Mesa (CA): Price-Pottenger Nutrition Foundation; 1945.

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Which immune boosters and supplements are anti-neoplastics (used to treat 
cancer), and are any of them effective as anti-neoplastics for more than two 
weeks?

Answer

Subject: Re: Immune supplements to treat cancer Answered By: gale-ga on 20 Apr 2002 22:00 PDT Rated:

Hi,

If you search the National Library of Medicine's MedLine database for

antineoplastic [mh] AND human [mh] AND dietary supplements [mh]

(where MH stands for 'MedLine Header'), you will find a number of dietary 
supplements that have shown some anti-cancer activity, most notably, vitamins 
A, B12, C, D, E, inositol and folic acid; minerals calcium and selenium; plant 
extracts such as quercetin, lutein and other carotenoids, lycopene (from 
tomatoes), soy isoflavones, and curcumin; fatty acids such as conjugated 
linoleic acid, arachidonic acid, gamma- and alpha-linolenic acid, 
docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and other omega-3 fatty acids, and their sources 
such as black currant seed oil, fish oil, and perilla oil; nucleotides (in raw 
milk and colostrum); whey protein concentrate, L-acidophilus, flavonoids, 
glucans from mushrooms Lentinus edodes, Schizophyllum commune, Grifola 
frondosa, and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum; inulin and oligofructose; and nutrition-
rich foods such as liver paste, tomatoes, seaweed, selenium, beets and garlic.

A much longer list is provided in the American Cancer Society Guide to Herbs, 

Vitamins and Minerals:
http://www.cancer.org/eprise/main/docroot/ETO/ETO_5_2_5?sitearea=ETO

A few more supplements are reviewed in great detail on the Dr. HingHau Tsang's 

Crusade on Nutrition site (http://tsangenterprise.com/news61.htm), namely
MGN-3, green tea (green tea extract), inositol hexaphosphate (IP-6), coenzyme 
Q10, 

N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC), and melatonin. 

The National Cancer Institute's Complementary and Alternative Medicine site 
lists a 

number of dietary supplement therapies and reviews related studies at:
http://www.cancer.gov/cancer_information/list.aspx?viewid=14821490-ee6c-4e7c-
80b5-c4f

b3cbbb07e

The therapies reviewed include 714-X (a type of camphor bark extract), 
Cancell/Entelev (main ingredient inositol), bovine and shark cartilage, 
pancreatic enzymes (Gonzales therapy), hydrazine sulfate, immuno-augmentative 
therapy using human blood products, laetrile/amygdalin, and Newcastle disease 
virus.

Several other therapies are listed on the Canadian Medical Association's site 

(http://www.cma.ca):

for example, an article at http://www.cma.ca/cmaj/vol-158/issue-7/0897.htm 
describes 

the Canadian Breast Cancer Research Institute's initiative on Essiac, green 
tea, and Iscador.

Dr. Ralph Moss's Cancer Therapy report contents at 

http://www.ralphmoss.com/html/CTTOC.shtml 

include a number of other supplements, and also a list of "serious" immune 
boosters, such as Tumor Necrosis Factor, available only at alternative cancer 
clinics.

One of the more popular alternative cancer therapies is intravenous vitamin C.

There is a comprehensive article entitled "Intravenous Vitamin C: first aid for 
cancer" on the Cancer Action site:
http://www.canceraction.org.gg/inext.htm

The Canadian Medical Association Journal mentions it in:
New insights into the physiology and pharmacology of vitamin C 
Sebastian J. Padayatty, Mark Levine 
CMAJ 2001;164(3):353-5 
Canadian Medical Association Journal

Unfortunately, I have not been able to find too many references to short-term 
vs. long-term use of immune system supplements (used against cancer or other 
diseases). 

One exception is echinacea; it has been shown that short-term use of echinacea 
stimulates the immune system, and its long-term use depresses it, see, e.g., 
the ConsumerLab Echinacea Review at:
http://www.consumerlab.com/results/echinacea.asp

For further information, I recommend that you search these sites:

National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine
http://nccam.nih.gov/

Office of Cancer Complementary and Alternative Medicine
http://www3.cancer.gov/occam/

Entrez-PubMed (a MedLine interface at the National Library of Medicine's site)
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi

Suggested search keywords:

cancer immune OR immunity supplement OR supplements

antineoplastics OR antineoplastic OR anti-neoplastic OR anti-neoplastics 
supplement OR supplements

anti-cancer dietary supplements

mar-ga rated this answer: That is exactly what I wanted. Thanks a lot!

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