GUARD your Immunity (I)

  

IMPORTANCE

In recent times, new communicable diseases surfaced, resulting in widespread illnesses and in the worst scenario - death. Some new strains of pathogens have found their way to a faraway destination with the help of infected travelers. The risk is elevated when the spread occurs in a densely populated city.

The immune system is the body’s first line of defence against infectious agents, such as chemicals, drugs, bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites, as well as engineering the healing process. Coated on them are large molecules or antigens the immune cells should be able to spot and destroy. At the front line are our skin, stomach acid and mucus - assisted by the lymph nodes and other components of the immune system which help to keep the antigens at bay. A well-functioning immune system is capable of distinguishing between normal body cells and foreign bodies/abnormal cells, and thus destroying cancer cells as and when they are spotted.


WEAKENING SIGNS

Decades of over-reliance on antibiotics puts a strain on the immune system whilst the newly transformed super microbes are harder to eradicate and thus spread and infect easily.

Weakening of the immune system results in increased susceptibility to virtually every type of illness. Some common signs of impaired immune function include fatigue, listlessness, repeated infections, inflammation, allergic reactions, slow wound healing, chronic diarrhea and manifestation of an overgrowth of some normally present organism as in oral thrush, systemic candidasis or vaginal yeast infections.

COMPOSITION

The immune system comprises specialized tissues, organs, cells and bio-chemicals with the skin and mucous membrane, of which the prominent ones involved are white blood cells, bone marrow, the lymphatic vessels and organs, specialised cells found in various body tissues and organs, specialised substances called serum factors found in the blood.

In the spongy tissue of the bone lies the red marrow where immature stem cells are produced. They have the capacity of turning into different types of cells - white blood cells, red blood cells, platelets and plasma.

Proper functioning of immune system

At birth, the immune system is not functional yet. The bone plays catch-up in a child's formative years by producing only immune cells in the red marrow, forgoing the yellow marrow (for bone, cartilage and fat tissue which explains why children below 5 years old are vulnerable to leukemia (see next para).

A drop of blood can contain anywhere from 7,000 to 25,000 white blood cells at a time.
Although white blood cells account for only about 1% of our blood, their impact is significant as they are essential for good health and protect us against illness and disease. Produced from stem cells inside the bone marrow, some of them have a short lifespan of 1-3 days. When leukemia strikes, overproduction of white blood cells which are often partially developed, crowd out the space for white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets. Majority of kids with leukemia developed in the lymphatic tissue and can be treated successfully with drugs and radiation. On the other hand, majority of adults with leukemia developed in the bone marrow and can undergo intensive therapy to bring abut remissions averaging 12-18 months if detected early. Chronic infection is not so lucky as treatment has not shown to improve survival significantly. Also, they are prone to hemorrhage and infection to cause fatal death.

Low count of WBCs can happen for a number of reasons eg. when an invader is destroying the cells more quickly than the body can replenish them or when the bone marrow stops making enough white blood cells to keep you healthy and vulnerable to any illness or infection. Under normal circumstances, higher-than-normal white blood cell count usually indicates some type of bacterial/viral infection as more are produced to destroy an enemy. 


The initial response to an antigen is inflammation eg. when cold virus is inhaled, the nasal passage becomes inflamed and releases histamine. The swelling also helps to contain the antigen from spreading to other body tissues. Other immune cells can then response to aid in destroying the antigens or damaged cells. The two types of cells most actively involved are:

1.  Antibody mediated immunity – B-cells originate from bone marrow and residing primarily in outer cortex of lymph nodes. The B-cells produce antibodies which either damage the invasive cells or alert the white blood cells to attack. A blueprint of the invader is stored to initiate the production of antibodies for subsequent exposure. They become plasma cells and stand guard in the lymph nodes awaiting further action.

2.  Cell-mediated immunity – T-cells produced by the thymus gland (located behind the top of the breastbone) and residing primarily in inner area of lymph nodes, blood and immune organs. All T cells are trained to recognise what is “self” to be tolerated and those “non-self” to be destroyed, Also, each T-cell is trained to identify a specific type of antigen that penetrate cells to reproduce and interfere with cell function. Those with faulty programming (like unable to differentiate “self” and “non-self”) are eliminated. With increasing age, the T cells decrease in numbers and potency.

Other active immune cells include:


*The most abundant WBC - neutrophil also known as the "immediate response" cell, accounts for 55-70% of the total white blood cell count. 


*  Natural killer cells patrol the body and mark cancer or viral infected cells. Once identified, the NK cells attack in packs by releasing substances that destroy the invader in minutes. However, as some potent viruses are capable of changing forms, this capability can be rendered useless.


*  Scavenger cells known as monocytes and macrophages which engulf foreign particles as well as expiring blood cells, including the red ones.

Working hand in hand with the blood circulatory system, the lymphatic system operates at the cellular level (inside and outside the cells) by cleansing and draining fluids, removing toxins, waste products and other debris. Fluids collected are drained into the capillaries of the lymphatic system known as lymph before filtering through the lymph nodes. Whilst most of the nymph nodes are smaller in size widely distributed throughout the body, the spleen, thymus and tonsils are the enlarged ones.


OUT OF BALANCE

(1)  Over-activity of immunity leads to allergies and autoimmune diseases -

+  An autoimmune disease is one in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. Some of the most common autoimmune diseases include arthritis, lupus and possibly inflammatory bowel disease. They may be caused by genetic factor, infections and injuries. Stress and emotional factors also seem to contribute to a certain extent.

Supporting the immune system through diet and lifestyle is vitally important in the treatment of autoimmune diseases.

+  An allergy is an inappropriate response or trigger by the immune system to a substance that is usually harmless. There are many causes of allergy - the most common being airborne particles such as mold, dust and pollen, certain foods, chemicals and drugs causing many disorders, including asthma and hay fever.

Supporting the immune system is instrumental in the treatment of allergic disorders.

(2)  Under-activity increases the risk of infections -

Poor diet, medications, pollution, toxic chemicals, stress levels and emotional state are external factors that can work adversely on the immune system.  For instance, overuse of antibiotics is prevalent today and may weaken the immune system in dealing with infectious agents. Often medications like steroids are prescribed for long periods in the treatment of disorders such as arthritis and asthma that can tax on the immunity gradually.


CORRECTIVE ACTIONS

The best way to keep the immune system working well is to stay in good general health. It is important not to allow infections to persist as this puts a strain on the immune system.

+  Improving lymphatic circulation through prolonged exercise, massage and herbal remedies help to boost the immunity. Studies conducted had shown that moderate to intense exercise for 2 hours or more can help to boost circulating phagocytes and lymphocytes, involving the bone marrow, spleen, pulmonary and systemic blood vessels releasing more white blood cells. There are several herbs which have powerful immune-enhancing effects eg. echinacea, astragalus, goldenseal, licorice, ginseng, garlic, cat’s claw and mushrooms such as shiitake, reishi and maitake.

+  Adopting the right diet approach is a pre-requisite to proper health status.  Nutrition plays a pivotal role in the functioning of the immune system and a poor diet increases the susceptibility to infection and exacerbate autoimmune diseases.  Also, infections increase the demand for nutrients to help fight infection and repair the damage to tissues.  Note that a single nutrient deficiency can compromise the immune system. However, any defect can usually be reversed after 2 weeks of correct nutrient therapy.


A healthy diet should comprise:

-  High carbohydrate diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and fiber.

-  Minimal fat derived from polyunsaturated vegetable oils and related products as they readily form free radicals that damage immune cells. One type, the essential fatty acid is helpful in treating cancer and autoimmune disorders.

-  High protein diets are damaging as residues of protein metabolism can cause irritation, especially in people prone to allergy and autoimmunity. Foods of animal origin (including dairy products) frequently contain residues of antibiotics and steroid hormones that irritate and weaken the immunity system.

-  The effectiveness of the immune system declines with age and older people are naturally more susceptible to infection than younger people and are at greater risk of low intake of several vitamins and minerals, which are vital in maintaining optimal immune function as they act to prevent free radical damage to immune cells and to the thymus gland, responsible for ensuring optimal immune function. Supplementing the elderly with single nutrients or mixtures of vitamins and minerals at levels that exceed the RDAs significantly should see good improvement.

1.  Vitamin A is known to stimulate and enhance many immune functions, including antibody response and the activity of various white blood cells such as T helper cells and phagocytes. This immune-enhancing function promotes healing of infected tissues and increases resistance to infection. The body’s store of vitamin A may be depleted from bouts of acute infection eg. respiratory attacks. Severe shortage can result in death and susceptibility to infection and diarrhea for children and HIV-positive patients.

2.  Beta-carotene can assist in increasing the numbers of immune cells, including the natural killer cells.  It protects macrophages, the white blood cells which engulf and destroy foreign substances. It also facilitates communication between immune cells and makes the stimulatory action of interferon on the immune system more powerful.

3.  Vitamin C is critical to immune function as it is involved in antibody production, and function and activity of white blood cells. Other functions include the production of interferon, an antiviral and anticancer substance.  It is commonly used to reduce the duration of the common cold and the severity of symptoms such as sneezing, coughing and sniffling. Severely ill elderly patients admitted to hospital with acute respiratory infections can benefit much from it too.

4.  Vitamin E protects the thymus gland and circulating white blood cells from damage, especially during times of oxidative stress and chronic viral illness. More antibodies are produced when used it against hepatitis B and tetanus infection.

5.  Selenium is part of the antioxidant enzyme, glutathione peroxidase, known to protect white blood cells from free radical damage. It also appears to increase antibody production, and accelerate the production of white blood cells and enhance their effectiveness in attacking and destroying harmful micro-organisms.

6.  B Vitamins can affect the quality and quantity of antibodies and the number of white blood cells. An impaired antibody response causes increased susceptibility to infection, especially amongst the older people. Vitamin B6 plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy immune system by affecting functions such as cell multiplication and antibody production.

7.  Vitamin D is involved in the regulation of the immune system. It has several functions, including effects on white blood cells known as monocytes and lymphocytes, and seems to suppress some immune functions. Many researchers are investigating the possibility of using vitamin D and related compounds to treat autoimmune disorders and to suppress rejection of transplanted organs.

8.  Copper is important in developing resistance to infection. A deficiency can lead to lowered resistance to infection as white blood cell activity and cellular immune responses are reduced. The ratio of zinc to copper may also affect immune system effectiveness. Susceptibility to disease seems to increase when copper intake is high and zinc intake is low.

9.  Iron is involved in the maintenance of a healthy immune system and the immune response can be impaired in iron-deficient people suffering from chronic yeast infections and herpes infections. Certain types of immune cells rely on iron to generate the oxidative reactions to rid bacteria and other pathogens. When iron levels are low, these cells cannot function properly. However, overloading of iron can be bad as well with reduced ability to eliminate bacterial growths and more free radicals generated that damage the immune system.

10.  Zinc deficiency results in activity of the thymus gland, thus a decrease in the numbers of several types of T cells, natural killer cells and other components of the immune response. This leads to increased susceptibility to infection and wound-healing time. Zinc supplements have also been shown to boost levels of interferon vital to fight bacterial and viral infection.


In general, nutrients taken should:


1.  Increase antibody production and improve antibody response (Vitamin A, B, C, selenium, copper, zinc, germanium)
2.  Increase the count of immune cells (Vitamin B, beta-carotene, selenium, copper, zinc)
3.  Improve communication between immune cells (beta-carotene)
4.  Strengthen/produce/adjust interferon (Vitamin C, beta-carotene, germanium)
5.  Protect against free radical damage (Vitamin E, C, beta-carotene,  selenium)


CONCLUSION

The immune system can function well if properly cared for.  Even the aging process may be more closely related to the functioning of the immune system than to the passage of time.

Getting the right nutrients, providing the right environment and avoidance of causative agents that compromise its defensive abilities eg. antibiotics, drugs, pesticides, additives, pollution, stress.


Remember, as with all body systems, immune balance is the key and IMMUNITY is HEALTH.

VIVA corner

+  VIVA Green Barley contains abundant antioxidants, fibers, minerals and protein, essential for proper functioning of the immune system which include higher count of immune cells and improve communication between them. Vivashield, with its winning combination of potent antioxidants can eliminate free radicals effectively. Its Vitamin A and E contents are anti-infection whilst Vitamin C is essential for the formation of adrenal hormones and the production of white blood cells, including antibodies and initiate proper response.

+  VIVA Omega3 to reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation. VIVA Germanium helps to produce the right interferon so the immune system gets the correct signal fast to attack intruders.

AUTO-IMMUNE diseases (II)

 

WHAT IS AUTO-IMMUNE?

A well functioning immune system has adequate amounts of circulating antibodies produced by the white blood cells, being the body’s first line of defence and a major indicator of health. This in-built mechanism enables the body to recognize, identify, remember, attack and destroy harmful substances known as antigens, which include bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites toxins, cancer cells and blood or tissues from another person or specie. Its white blood cells produce antibodies with the slightest threat of damage to the normal cells.

On the contrary, a defective immune system wreaks havoc throughout the host by directing its antibodies against its own healthy tissues as well, causing prolonged inflammation and subsequent tissue destruction. Since the immune system has gone into 'overdrive' so why should we give it more ammunition? Not really, this is an indication of the immune system not functioning properly too.

 

SAME AS ALLERGY?

An allergy is an inappropriate response or trigger by the immune system to a substance that is usually harmless such as mold, dust and pollen, certain foods, chemicals and drugs causing many disorders, including asthma and hay fever.

In allergies, the immune system reacts to an EXTERNAL substance that it normally would ignore. With autoimmune disorders, the immune system is hypersensitive and over-reacts to INTERNAL body tissues that it would normally ignore.

RELATED DISEASES

An autoimmune disorder may affect one or more organ or tissue types, including:

• Blood vessels
• Connective tissues
• Endocrine glands eg. the thyroid or pancreas
• Joints
• Muscles
• Red blood cells
• Skin

There are more than 80 different types of autoimmune disorders. Two common ones are attack on the linings of the joints, where rheumatoid arthritis develops and the insulin-producing islet cells of the pancreas leading to insulin-dependent Diabetes type 1 or pancreatitis. It is believed that B cells erroneously identify the normal cells as being antigens that require an immune response.

Other critical illness such as Crohn’s disease (on small intestine), ulcerative colitis (on large intestine), multiple sclerosis, lupus and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis are tough to diagnose and treat.

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms depend on the disease and location of the abnormal immune response that often include:

• Fatigue
• Fever
• General ill-feeling

CAUSES

+  Lifestyle

It was found that healthy elderly have very low levels of auto-antibodies in their hormonal glands – eg. thyroid, adrenal, pituitary, hypothalamus. The probable reason is environmental exposure to foreign substances associated with unhealthy lifestyle such as intake of alcohol, caffeine, tobacco, drugs, sugar, poor dieting and inadequate sleep. All these resultant toxins introduced into the body tax the immune system heavily leading to a compromised immune system.

For instance, we consume sugar of all forms (glucose, fructose and sucrose) freely without realising how damaging it can be in reducing the potency of the white cells in combating biological agents. In a weak form, a sugar molecule is attached to the protein readily, causing it to glycate. The heavy accumulation of these glycated proteins in the body is unrecognisable by the immune system which sees them as altered proteins having different structure and function. Treating these substances as alien, the immune system therefore develops antibodies against them. Based on this premise, the possibility of becoming allergic to oneself, with the associated autoimmunity and inflammation, increases as one accumulates these damaged glycated proteins.

It is estimated that after 2 hours of ingesting sugar, the immune function drops by about 50%!!

+  Hormonal factors


It is likely that hormones play a vital role as majority of sufferers are women though a few such as Type 1 diabetes, ankylosing spondylitis and autoimmune myocarditis are actually more common in men.  A prime suspect is chemicals involved in personal-care products (eg. lotion, perfume and sunscreen) commonly used by women with most deemed endocrine disrupters.


+  Genetics


Clinical and epidemiologic evidence as well as data from experimental animals demonstrate that a tendency to develop autoimmune disease is inherited. This tendency may be large or small depending on the disease but, in general, close relatives are more likely to develop the same or a related autoimmune disease.

+  Environmental factors

Even if one does not indulge in unhealthy choices, there is no escape from free radicals generated by heavy metals and environmental pollution such as pesticides, herbicides, chemical fertilizers, industrial wastes, cigarette smoke and automobile exhaust present in our air, water and food. There are now more than 80,000 chemicals found in consumer products whereby the toxins can alter the structure of our DNA, which can prompt the immune system to see the mutated tissue as a foreign substance and attack. A well-known metal - mercury can trigger autoimmunity by ramping up the production of lymphocytes.


+  Infections


Infections can be followed by an autoimmune disease in a few instances such as rheumatic fever followed by a streptococcal infection and Guillain-Barre`syndrome caused by chlamydia. A great deal of circumstantial evidence suggests that viruses may play a role in initiating some autoimmune diseases.

+  Drug medication

Overuse of antibiotics is prevalent today and may weaken the immune system in dealing with infectious agents. Often medications like steroids are prescribed for long periods in the treatment of disorders such as arthritis and asthma that can tax on the immunity gradually.


As auto-immune diseases continue for the lifetime of the patient, continual or intermittent care is required whilst definitive cures are not available yet. Often the drugs used for treating these diseases are quite expensive and have unfortunate side effects.

PREVENTION/TREATMENT

The purposes should be directed to:

• Reduce symptoms
• Control the autoimmune process
• Maintain the body’s ability to fight disease

*  Guard your immunity

A functioning immune system has adequate amounts of circulating antibodies produced by the white blood cells, being the body’s first line of defence and a major indicator of health.

*  Have a good nutritional foundation

Is essential to provide right nutrients over a prolonged period to alleviate or reverse a compromised immune system and to assist with reducing the impact of fully developed autoimmune diseases. Adopting the right diet approach is a pre-requisite to proper health status. Nutrition plays a pivotal role in the functioning of the immune system and a poor diet increases the susceptibility to infection and exacerbate autoimmune diseases. Also, infections increase the demand for nutrients to help fight infection and repair the damage to tissues. Note that a single nutrient deficiency can compromise the immune system. An example is lack of Vitamin B12 or iodine can cause thyroid disorder.

+  Studies reported that those patients who developed rheumatoid arthritis or lupus showed lower serum concentrations of vitamin E, beta-carotene and vitamin A in their blood.  These antioxidants are a broad group of compounds station outside the cells to protect against oxidative damage caused by the normal aging process or daily exposure to pollutants and toxic substances, and destroy or neutralize free radicals. Another important water-soluble antioxidant - Vitamin C has an ability to scavenge both reactive oxygen and nitrogen radicals.

Many fruits and vegetables contain all the above potent antioxidants as well as green tea extract, grape seed-skin extract, coenzyme Q10 and selenium.

+  Supplementation with omega-3 essential fatty acids from fish can alleviate many symptoms of auto-immune disease through their anti-inflammatory activity.


+  High protein diets are damaging as residues of protein metabolism can cause irritation, especially in people prone to allergy and autoimmunity. Foods of animal origin (including dairy products) frequently contain residues of antibiotics and steroid hormones that irritate and weaken the immunity system.

*  Support the gastrointestinal tract

-  For inflammatory bowel disease, the immune system over-reacts to an offending agent such as bacteria or protein found in food (eg. gluten). The immune cells attack the lining of the intestines, causing inflammation that leads to symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain.

-  Medical experts explained that in the last 20 years as Asian populations switched to diets high in refined sugar, animal protein and fat, such unhealthy diet changes the mix of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, and thus paves he way for developing allergies such as eczema and asthma.


-  Though fibre intake is important in our diet, those suffering from inflammatory bowel disease have to avoid hard-to-digest foods if their inflammation is active. Larger stools formed may have difficulty passing through the intestine.  Exclude dairy products, oily food and caffeine that stimulate the contraction of the intestines.

-  Intestinal permeability is often disrupted by health conditions caused by auto-immune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, pancreatic dysfunction and food allergies. Events such as aging, stress, medications and alcohol consumption also alter permeability. 


-  Poor intestinal absorption of nutrients and peristalsis movement are not conducive for the survival of beneficial bacterial flora.  Instead, it provides an ideal environment for the breeding of abnormal bacteria and the byproducts they produce, leading to the absorption of toxic substances into the bloodstream.

-  To correct the problem, bacterial balance must be restored through the use of supplemental probiotics and prebiotics that feed the under-produced friendly bacteria. Adding fibre, fruit and vegetables to the diet also help.


*  Manage Stress

-  Prolonged stress is a major contributory risk factor in developing all kinds of disease. It can trigger a chain of biological actions that ultimately suppresses the normal function of the white blood cells and stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol, as well as depleting important nutrients from the body. The result is impaired healing ability and lowered defence against infection.

-  In fact, researchers attributed stress to the occurrence of IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) as there is a connection between the brain and the gut. When one is too stressed up, the gut may react by over-contracting, causing diarrhoea or contracting too little, causing constipation.


*  Control the emotions

Lack of proper rest and sleep, depression and emotional disturbance contribute to immune dysfunction.  Balance the mind and emotions is vital and that is why many people are finding relief in activities such as yoga, deep breathing, musical participation, positive affirmations, meditation and religion.

*  Protect the liver

-  The liver plays a vital role in fat metabolism and health proper maintenance. Important functions include the synthesis and secretion of albumin (a blood clotting protein), the storage of glucose and synthesis of vitamins and minerals.  Acting as a detoxifier, it is responsible for the purification and clearance of waste products, drugs, pathogens and toxins.

-  The herb milk thistle and its components silymarin and silibinin have two therapeutic mechanisms: they alter the structure of the outer cell membrane to prevent penetration of liver poison into the interior of the cell, and stimulate the action of increased synthesis of protein, much needed for regeneration of the liver cells.

LAB TEST

Erythrocyte (mean red blood cells) sedimentation rate or ESR is a test conducted to measure how fast the red blood cells with sediment sink when they are put in a column of blood. This is a non-specific marker for inflammation and with more inflammation, the human body produces more proteins which can make these red blood cells stick to each other closely and sink faster. It occurs in other situations like infections, anemia, pregnancy or cancer.

In the case of autoimmune disorder, it is often used as a measure of the severity of the inflammation.  More checks have to be performed on other organs for evidence of the inflammation and prevent their further damage.

More comments

Proper immune function is an intricate balancing act.  An inadequate immunity opens one to all types of illness whilst a strong immune response can also result in various disorders.

The basic conclusion is that when the immune system is faulty, it can overexpress, resulting in either a hyper-immune response causing autoimmune disease or a hypo-immune response leading to uncontrollable infection. 


Do not take autoimmune diseases lightly and ignore recurring symptoms till too late. Early treatment can help patients to lead a normal life.  Strengthening the immune system with nutritional supplements and by making the necessary healthy lifestyle changes can reduce the impact of autoimmune disorders.

Like in most if not all cases, disease does not have to take over if a patient is able to control his condition and achieve remission if done properly.


VIVA corner

+  VIVA Green Barley contains abundant antioxidants, fibers, minerals and protein, essential for proper functioning of the immune system which include higher count of immune cells and improve communication between them. Vivashield, with its winning combination of potent antioxidants can eliminate free radicals effectively. Its Vitamin A and E contents are anti-infection whilst Vitamin C is essential for the formation of adrenal hormones and the production of white blood cells, including antibodies and initiate proper response.

+  VIVA Omega3 to reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation. VIVA Germanium helps to produce the right interferon so the immune system gets the right signal to attack only when antigens need to be eradicated.

Allergies (III)

For most people, allergies are no more than another frustrating fact of life. An immune response is triggered by a substance that is generally harmless, such as a specific food. However, for those who suffer severe allergic reaction, it can be life-threatening.

What is allergy?

 

An allergy is an inappropriate response by the body’s immune system to a substance non-toxic in nature. As our immune system provides the defence against pathogens, it mobilises our white blood cells to rid them. However, there are instances where it spots a non-toxic substance as an invader and overacts, causing damage to the body as such. Pollen, molds, dusts, certain metals, cosmetics, some food additives and foods, chemicals found in soap, washing powder, cleaning supplies contain substances that provoke allergic responses are some common allergens.

Who can be affected?

Compared to a few decades ago, allergic reaction in children seems to be a common complaint these days especially in developed countries. Strangely, the pattern of allergy is also changing. It used to be more incidence of asthma and allergic rhinitis. However, recent studies showed that skin and food allergies are catching up too.


(A)  FOOD allergies are more common in children than adults, given their underdeveloped immune system. However, most children outgrow their food allergies by 5 years old with maturing immunity, with exception of certain allergies like peanuts, tree nuts or shellfish.

 

 

Unlike children, once adults acquire a food allergy, it tends to persist. This adverse reaction can happen during the first trial or a repeat but previously tolerant of. Though food may be taken for the first time, but it may share a similar protein to another food sensitised or allergic to. An allergy syndrome that affects the mouth and tongue may occur after eating certain fresh fruits and vegetables that contain substances similar to certain pollens. For example, melon contains substances similar to ragweed pollen and apples have allergens similar to tree pollen. The prime suspect is auto-immune disorder especially when a protein in the food acts as an allergic component upon entering the body and being mistaken for a harmful substance.


The food range is wider of which seafood such as shrimps and crabs are frequently cited. Other intolerances are corn products, cow’s milk and dairy products, and wheat and other gluten-containing grains. Contrary to most beliefs, food additives, such as dyes, thickeners and preservatives may rarely cause an allergic or intolerance reaction.  Many people believe they have food allergies, while in reality fewer than 1% have true allergies.


Symptoms usually begin immediately, within 2 hours after eating. Rarely, the symptoms may begin hours after eating the offending food. The immune system responds by creating immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to protect the body. At this point is considered ‘sensitised‘ but not yet allergic.

 

Upon subsequent encounters with the same food invoking the same reaction, it triggers the release of IgE antibodies and chemicals such as histamines. This is confirmed an allergy, with accompanying symptoms like hives, itching, nausea, diarrhoea and vomiting. Other symptoms manifesting include:

 

- Impaired health possibilities like asthma attack, sinusitis or eczema, arthritis, indigestion, abdominal pain, depression, chronic fatigue, fainting.

- Skin rashes, wheezing, nasal congestion, running nose, headache, itching of the mouth, throat, eyes, skin or any area, shortness of breath.

In more severe cases, the throat tightens and the blood pressure drops, loss of consciousness and possibly death. Allergens most frequently associated with this type of drastic reaction are peanuts, nuts, milk, egg and seafood.


(B) SKIN allergies can be broadly categorized into hives with/without swelling and dermatitis (eg. eczema).

- Hives are itchy rashes characterized by localized redness and swelling of the skin with tiny lesions to large itchy welts. About 15% of people develop an episode in their lifetime. The duration can be few days or up to six weeks whilst chronic cases can persist more than six weeks. It can manifest due to swelling in the deeper layers of the skin, most often involves the eyelids, lips, tongue, hands and feet.


-  Dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin and rashes are usually red, scaly and itchy.

Commonly referred to as eczema, it can also result in dryness and hypersensitivity. Owing to hereditary factor and lower immunity, 20% of children end up having this condition by three years old. Thereafter, it should improve as the child gets older. However, some eczema might persist into adulthood. The affected areas are the face, neck, elbow and the back of the knees. The causative agents are food and environmental allergens, stress, weather changes and irritants. As dry skin is the hallmark of eczema, keeping the skin moisturized is necessary to prevent allergens from penetrating it. 

Causes


It is believed to be attributed to industrialization, change in dietary habits and environmental pollutants as the switching on and off of regulatory genes promotes the immune system to be more reactive/allergic. Other possible causes are:


+ Genetic factor

 

The tendency of an individual to produce IgE against something seemingly as innocuous as food appears to be inherited. Generally, people with allergies come from families in which allergies are common - not necessarily to food but perhaps allergies to pollen, fur, feathers or drugs.
 

Statistics showed a person with two allergic parents is more likely to develop food allergies than someone with one allergic parent. The chance of a child getting allergy is 1/3 if a parent has allergies and risen to 3/4 if both have such problems.

 

+ Other allergies like asthma, eczema, allergic rhinitis (mostly inherited)

 

+ Immune system

 

Two components are involved. As mentioned above, an antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE), which circulates through the blood, and the mast cell, a specialized cell that is found in all tissues of the body, especially the typical sites of allergic reactions such as nose and throat, lungs, skin and gastrointestinal tract.

 

Cells of the immune system are distributed all over our body in organs such as the bone marrow, spleen and lymph nodes. The highest numbers of immune cells surround our gut and thus the gut immune system plays an important role in the development of IgE-mediated food allergy.

 

+ Gut environment

 

- A foetus starts off with a sterile gut and through time, bacteria and other microorganisms from the mother and the surrounding environment colonize the infant’s gut. In a healthy adult, there are no less than 400 different species of beneficial bacteria. Research suggests that these microorganisms are involved in a range of useful functions, such as teaching the gut immune system to recognise foods as harmless.

 

Is likely that changes in the composition of bacteria in the gut (e.g. caused by antibiotics) may result in the development of food allergy. It has been observed by researchers that allergic and non-allergic infants have different mixtures of bacteria in their guts and thus prevention of allergy can be done by changing this mixture. It is found that breastfeeding babies are less likely to develop allergies because infant formula is likely to contain certain allergenic ingredients such as cow’s milk according to a research by the University of Pittsburgh Medical Centre. Hence, pregnant women should avoid cow’s milk and other allergenic foods.

 

- If the food is not broken down properly in the gut, food allergens are given the chance to circulate in the body. This happens in individuals with reduced stomach acidity (e.g. taking too much drugs) who may be predisposed to becoming food allergic or it may worsen the symptoms of a pre-existing food allergy.

 

- Leaky gut syndrome occurs when the lining of the intestinal tract becomes perforated and irritated, with some partially digested food entering the bloodstream and causes an allergic reaction.

 

We can safely conclude from statistics gathered that allergic people tend to have weaker digestive systems due to a lack of friendly bacteria. Low digestive enzymes slow down the breaking process and resultant gas built up that can be re-circulated into the bloodstream, provoking the immune system to produce symptoms.

 

Recommended actions

 

+ Foods to avoid

 

- Common allergic foods to watch out are: chocolate, dairy products, eggs, shellfish, strawberries, wheat, prawns.

- As for eczema sufferers, avoid high-sugar and refined or processed foods as they can stimulate inflammation, along with meats and dairy products containing saturated fats. Coffee may also worsen eczema, so eliminating coffee from the diet may help.

 

+ Foods to include

 

- Counteract with natural products containing flavonoids such as quercitin (found in apples, onions, red wine and black tea) and grape seed extract as they have anti-histamine effect.

- Honey, Omega 3 and primrose oil can help to reduce inflammation.

 

+ Self-test

 

- Finding the specific foods one is allergic to is a challenging task. Many tests have to be carried out with total avoidance of all ‘suspected foods’ and introduce each singly to check for reaction. Elimination and abstinence cannot be practised for an extended time as it affects one’s quality of life and gives undue stress. After long trials it can drain the body of essential nutrients.

 

Before proceeding for elaborate lab test, you may like to conduct a simple allergy test. In a relaxed mode, take count of the number of beats in a minute on your wrist. A normal pulse reading is between 52-70. Take the food you suspect allergic to and wait another 20 mins to do a second reading. If the rate increased more than 10 beats per min, omit this food from your diet for a month and repeat the test. Similar results yield positive correlation. Preferably choose the suspected food in its purest form (not mixing with other ingredients) to determine the culprit responsible.

 

+ Lab test
 

- A better way to detect allergies is to measure the levels of the immune protein IgG (delayed allergy) and IgE (immediate allergy) present on most common foods taken, or known as immune markers of allergy.

 

Source: Straits Times, Mind your Body Jun 2, 2011;

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001820/

Conclusion

For majority of the people, the primary underlying cause for allergies is a weak constitution. A major step to take is to detoxify and strengthen the vital organ - liver.  This is to follow with good supplementation to experience decreased food reactions, and disappearance of accompanying symptoms to enjoy a new lease of life!

VIVA corner

VIVA Omega 3 in triglyceride form is 3 times more absorbable than a non-triglyceride form and has higher content of EPA and DHA available in the market. Both EPA and DHA can inhibit tumor growth and reduce inflammation effectively as explained by the University of Maryland due to its ability to decrease levels of leukotriene B4.

Every scoop of VIVA Floraguard introduces 10.2 billion friendly bacteria into our digestive system. These so-called probiotics help to ease allergic reactions and improve digestion quickly.


VIVA Cellpex has an important ingredient - milk thistle that can help to eliminate toxins and strengthen the liver function. Another key ingredient - grape seed extract has anti-histamine effect.

 

Vivashield with its potent 4 in 1 antioxidant combination has antihistamine actions that can decrease allergy response and support the immune system, rendering help in treating serious skin allergies like psoriasis and eczema symptoms, reducing skin inflammation, itching, redness, scaling and dryness.

PARASITES in our Body

  

Billions of people are harboring parasites in their bodies without any knowledge.  The notion that parasitic infections can only occur in poor, undeveloped or developing countries is a fallacy.  In USA, a random check showed eight out of ten people are unwilling hosts to one or more of the 1000-plus species of parasites.

Parasites live in and upon other organisms, from which they rob the host’s nutrition and secretes toxins into the body causing tissue damage, diseases, infections, pains and a vast number of other symptoms that are commonly blamed on other illnesses even medical experts are unable to explain.  The symptoms can be chronic fatigue, loss of appetite, depression, allergies, anemia, constipation, diarrhea, gas and stomach bloating, teeth grinding, cyst lumps, abnormal weight, joint and muscle pain, vaginal irritation and immune dysfunction.

For health reason, more people are eating raw foods such as vegetables, fish and oysters without realising the danger lurking.  Parasites find their way into the body through food, water, insects such as mosquito, pets and in some cases person-to-person contact.

To avoid contamination, wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly and cook meat and fish before eating.  Purified water should only be taken as small parasites can pass through the filtration process and/or resistant to chemicals used for water treatment.

To avoid exposing to this menace is impossible. Adopt good hygiene practices like washing hands before eating, after going to the bathroom and contact with pets. Note that parasites can survive up to 2 months beneath our fingernails. Animals are known to transmit 240 diseases to humans through these agents. Do not walk with bare feet on soil because a handful of it contains thousands of microscopic parasites.

A parasite is capable of producing up to 200,000 eggs daily.  Some are so tough to live up to 20 years in the body before causing any problem.  Hence, we can also cleanse our body internally for prevention and elimination.

Parasites can be categorised into 4 types:

+  Protozoa (single-cell parasite such as amoebae, cryptosporidum and giardia)

+  Trematoda (roundworm, hookworm, whipworm and pinworm)

+  Cestoda (tapeworm)

+  Nematoda (flukes)

Each parasite has its own characteristics, habitats and life cycle, which may have 3 stages -  eggs, larvae and adults. Drugs administered on different kinds of parasites at different stage is difficult without causing side effects in the human body.

VIVA corner

VIVA Biogarlic has sulfur compounds like Allicin and Ajuene in garlic extracts that are effective in resisting bacteria, fungus and parasitic growth.  It works by strengthening our body’s T cell and Macrophage, thus enhancing the bioactivity of natural killer cells, to combat a wide spectrum of parasites.

VIVA Cleanse Tea helps to remove the waste and toxins accumulated from the breeding of the parasites and

VIVA Floraguard to re-colonise the gastrointestinal tract with friendly bacteria to prevent further attacks.

Adapted from The Worm Crisis by Dr Hazel Cheng, VIVA Life Science.

Dreadful BUGS on the skin

HERPES


Make no mistake about it. The chance of harboring this silent and resilient virus is high for most of us, young and old. Stop wondering where it came from and learn how to cope with it.

Herpes has been known for at least 2,000 years. It is said that Emperor Tiberius banned kissing in Rome for a time due to so many people having cold sores which are blisters around the mouth or on the lips - a common fact of life, related to neurological disorder. They are caused by Herpes Simplex Virus Type I, acquired mainly during childhood. 

Beside mouth lesion, infections also appear on the outer layers of the eye, especially the conjunctiva and cornea. This is transmitted by skin-to-skin contact, such as through infected saliva and direct contact with the sores. There is little risk as up to 80% of people would have antibodies against it by the time they reach adulthood. Anyway, such infections are rarely serious or fatal except when the virus attacks certain areas such as the brain in extremely ill or vulnerable people.

+ Type II is associated with genital herpes. It causes sores, blisters or a rash to form around the genitals 3-6 days after sexual contact. It becomes painful, especially when one is walking or urinating. It may last for 3 weeks or so and the sores heal without treatment. Then at unpredictable intervals, attacks are likely to recur, with each session lasting a few days to two weeks. The frequencies can vary with one's emotional stress, fever, premenstrual changes, sexual intercourse and other factors.

As with almost all sexually transmitted infections, women are more susceptible to acquiring genital herpes than men. They can be silent carrier of the disease with no noticeable symptoms if the infection is on the cervix.

Practicing safe sex and abstaining from skin-to-skin contact with herpes sores can help to prevent the spread of the infection. There is currently no cure for genital herpes. Even after fixing up the problem, attack may recur repeatedly.


Note: Cross-infections could occur from oral-genital contact, so that one can get type II infections of the mouth and Type I of the genitals.


How to keep the bug at bay -

• Triggers include sun exposure (especially ultra-violet B rays), stress and lowered immune system (eg. HIV and cancer-related immune suppression)
• While the virus can never be completely eradicated, anti-viral creams and oral anti-viral medications can shorten the duration of the attacks
•  Grab a cold drink and press it against the sore intermittently for 15 minutes for a quick relief
•  Garlic is proven to be a murder on pathogens including most viruses. It can be applied on both oral and genital herpes
•  Echinacea extract seems to be capable of eradicating oral herpes
• As the virus can survive for a brief time outside the body, beware of risks in sharing personal belongings or using toilet seats.
• For pregnant women with herpes, have regular tissue cultures taken during the final weeks before delivery. She can opt for vaginal delivery if no active sores are present in her vagina or labia. The danger of a baby born with fatal brain infection is high if precautions are not carefully observed.
• Large doses of the amino acid lysine (about 1000 mg per day) appear to promote healing.
  

Other noteworthy points -

1. Not to share items that come into contact with the mouth.
2. Practice good hygiene and hand-washing habits.
3. Avoid contact sports, kissing and touching the sores.
4. Do not consume citrus fruits and juices while the virus is active.
5. Foods with high level of the amino acid arginine should be avoided as it promotes outbreaks eg. chocolate, peanuts and soybeans.
6. Lysine is an amino acid from foods such as yogurt, fish, potatoes and brewer’s yeast which seems to inhibit the virus.
7. To avoid a nasty outbreak, alternative stress relief method such as yoga, taiqi or medication can quell tension and increase immune-system cells.

Fortunately for most people, episodes of active disease should reduce in frequency and severity over time.


As compared to HPV......


Another variation is genital warts generally caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). There are about 100 different strains of HPV out there with more than 40 of them affecting the genitals like type 6 & 11. It has been found that half of all men could be an unwilling carrier for the genital strain without their knowledge. Research finding suggests men likely to catch HPV by having multiple sexual partners, regardless of sexual preference. Men of all age groups are at a high risk for catching new HPV infections throughout their life.


This is a sexually transmitted infection that has been linked to certain cancers like in high strain type 16 & 18 becoming cervical cancer amongst women who are constantly infected and in some instances - cancers of the penis, anus, vulva and vagina. Hence, women who have contracted the viru should have a Pap smear twice a year. This fast, simple and inexpensive test can help detect cervical cancer in its early stages, when it can almost always be cured. Note that this virus is capable of attacking any tissue and organ, including the brain.

Late treatment can be due to HPV being more difficult to diagnose than oral herpes, since most infected persons have no classical symptoms displayed for a prolonged period. Further confusing diagnosis may exhibit other conditions resembling genital herpes, including fungal infection, lichen planus, atopic dermatitis and urethritis.

Visible symptoms are as follows:
-  Itching and burning on the genitals, buttocks and upper thighs.
-  Flu-like symptoms (eg sore throat) and pain during urination.
-  Small growths or bumps that may grow together after 3 months to look like cauliflower and are often painless.


HPV infections can be prevented by practicing safe sex and receiving the HPV vaccine. The FDA-approved Gardasil vaccine could reduce the risk of contracting other sexually transmitted infections as well.


Upon contracting the virus, remedial actions to be taken include:

+ Apply topical creams, or destroy using liquid nitrogen, laser or an electric current.

+ Take raw garlic as it is known to contain both antibacterial and antiviral properties, either orally or crushed to apply on surrounding skin.

+ See a healthcare provider promptly as genital warts have been linked to cervical cancer. For larger warts CO2 laser surgery may be recommended. Do not attempt to cut or burn a wart off yourself.

+ Keep genital warts dry, do not rub or irritate it. Wear only cotton underwear. Avoid sexual intercourse until the warts are completely healed.

A word of caution. Virus remaining on the skin can re-enter the body if there is a cut. As the virus is difficult to be eradicated, always keep your immunity strong.


For most people who can endure the discomfort without treatment, the virus may drop off eventually but the time taken to clear varies. One study showed it took “significantly longer” for infections with any type of HPV to clear in men aged 18 to 30 than in other age groups.


HAND, FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE (HFMD)

This is an infectious disease caused by a family of viruses called Enteroviruses, particularly Coxsackie virus. Though it is moderately contagious, spreading through saliva, throat discharges, fluid from blisters, or stools of infected persons are all possibilities.

Who at risk?

2/3 of sufferers are children under 5 years old as their immunity tend to be lower.  Chance of adult affected is not high as their own immune system provide good defence.

What are the symptoms?

It starts with small ulcers appearing on the throat and tonsils, and rash with small blisters on the hands, (more on palm side), feet (more on the sole side) and diaper area. The rash may also be present on the buttocks, arms and legs. It does not itch and usually heal within a week.  The child may develop fever, lose appetite, have running nose and headache.

Complications?

Severe ulcers in the mouth can be very painful. This makes food and drink intake difficult and may result in dehydration. Persistent vomiting/diarrhea coupled with a reduced fluid intake worsens the condition.

The brain, lung or heart may be infected occasionally if contracted the fatal EV 71 strain with serious complications including:

• Severe headache, giddiness and neck stiffness
• Disorientation, drowsiness and/or irritability
• Fits
• Breathlessness or turning blue

During the 2000 and 2001 outbreak, it claimed seven children’ lives.

Treatable?

There is no specific treatment for the infection other than symptomatic relief of symptoms. No vaccine is available yet to combat the viruses and antibiotics is not effective. If you suspect your child has HFMD, please bring him/her to see the family doctor. Ease your child s discomfort and help your child recover :

• Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids
• Change to a soft diet (e.g. porridge, pureed fruit) if the mouth ulcers are a problem
• Medications may be prescribed by the doctor to relieve fever and pain
• Ensure your child gets plenty of rest by keeping him/her at home
• Good air ventilation is important to prevent virus from easy contamination. 

OTHER PATHOGENS



Other types of pathogens can be critical, resulting in outbreak of chickenpox, shingles, auto-immune disorders, mononucleosis, bone cancer, chronic fatigue syndrome and infection of the lymphatic system. Patients with immature or suppressed immune systems, such as newborns, transplant recipients or AIDS patients are prone to severe complications from such infections.


For most people infections may have come and gone without any visible symptoms, and do not know that the virus is hibernating. In fact, it travels the nerve pathways and nests at the bundle of nerves at the base of the spine. For some people, the virus can lay dormant there until stress, illness or fatigue reactivates it, triggering a nerve response in the coronary artery that may lead to a dangerous clotting followed by a heart attack.


Conclusion


At the moment, the medical world has not found a cure for these bugs and may have to continue to depend on antibiotics. A good immune system can track down foreign particles and destroy it before they get to harm the body. Hence, keeping immunity strong is of paramount importance at all times.


VIVA corner

VIVAshield with its potent 4 in 1 antioxidants helps to prevent sores and inhibit the growth of the virus. VIVA Biogarlic has immune-enhancing properties and is a natural antibiotic against viral infection. VIVA Floraguard to repopulate the friendly bacterial in the guts for a stronger immune system.

VIVA Dailyguard offers a comprehensive nutritional package to cope with the stress the body is undergoing this trying period especially for those with weakening immune system.

VIVA Ageguard contains high content of lysine to aid in recovery.