Immune Health
Paper Suggests Vitamin B6 May Calm Cytokine Storms Linked to COVID-19
Studies have so far explored the benefits of vitamins D and C and minerals like zinc and magnesium in fortifying immune response against COVID-19 (read more on that here). But research on vitamin B6 has been mostly missing. Food scientist Thanutchaporn Kumrungsee hopes a paper published in Frontiers in NutritionRead
DISCOVERY: Immune Defense Guidance System Identified
A new mice experimental study shows that at the kick off of the immune response, the molecule sphingosine 1 phosphate (S1P) mobilizes immune cells into the bloodstream to target infection sites and then rapidly shifts position. Researchers say this indirectly amplifies the attack on foreign microbes or the body’s ownRead
Tissue Stiffness Contributes to Immune Responses & Chronic Aging Diseases
A new study shows that tissue stiffness causes tension in cells, which likely drives immune responses in many chronic diseases. The findings suggest the cellular tension likely sets off an inflammatory loop that contributes to the development of chronic diseases of aging. Research from the Buck Institute, the University HealthRead
Part 2: Melatonin, Respiratory Health, and Infections
In Part 1, we take a look at the mechanisms by which melatonin may impact immune function and inflammation. Herein, we take a look at its impact on respiratory health in general and its anti-infective effects. Melatonin and Respiratory Health Melatonin has been shown to improve various markers of lungRead
From Snakebites to Seasonal Sniffles, the Many Reasons to Turn to Echinacea
The modern data supporting echinacea, the Indigenous American botanical Perhaps you know it for its distinct flower – a pronounced brown central cone, surrounded by delicate purple petals – and its common botanical name, purple coneflower. Or maybe, you know it as a natural remedy to take for protection againstRead
The Berrylicious Benefits of Black Elderberry
Pleasant-Tasting Purple Berries that Provide Powerful Immune Protection Let’s face it, we all have days when the burden of remembering to take our supplements or swallowing another pill just becomes too much to endure. “Just give me something that tastes good!” – the inner 5-year old demands. Compliance is aRead
Hemicellulose as an Immune Enhancing Tool
The Impact of Hemicellulose from Plants and Mushroom-Derived Polysaccharides on Immune Function Hemicellulose isn’t a new thing. In fact, it is as timeless as the plants and fungi that cover the face of our planet. Hemicellulose differs from cellulose in that it is a polysaccharide comprised of various sugars includingRead
Part 1: Melatonin, Immune Function, and Inflammation
A look at the physiological role of melatonin beyond its sleep-supportive and antioxidant effects. Melatonin and Respiratory Health Melatonin has been shown to improve various markers of lung function and/or reduce pulmonary inflammation in numerous settings not having a primary infectious etiology. Although we typically think of melatonin as aRead
The Immune Enhancing Effects of Alpha-Tocopherol and the Tocotrienol Family
We all are familiar with the antioxidant principles of the vitamin E family, their importance as an essential nutrient, and the protection they provide against lipid peroxidation.[1],[2] However, many are less aware of their importance for healthy immune system function, particular with age. Although severe vitamin E deficiency is uncommonRead
Zinc and Selenium: Key Players for Healthy Immunity
Adequate nutrition is essential for the normal functioning of the immune system, although some nutrients are more important than others when it comes to defending the body from infection.[1] Among the essential minerals, deficiencies in either zinc or selenium can greatly increase one’s susceptibility to infection and may worsen theRead
