Acupuncture, Nutrition and Immunity

'Tis the season to be coughing and sneezing, vomiting and… you know what else…

It is winter here in Central Texas and that brings cough, cold and flu season. I know first hand that nothing is more important to your health than a well-functioning immune system. In addition to these common ailments, the immune system protects us from infections, asthma, food allergies, rheumatoid arthritis and even cancer. Preventing disease and maintaining health are deeply rooted in the philosophy of traditional Chinese medicine. It is not unusual in the Chinese culture for people to get regular acupuncture treatments to enhancing their immune systems. In addition to acupuncture, diet, nutrition and exercise are also key to immune health.

Acupuncture is a powerful tool to regulate the immune system. In the United States, acupuncture was initially accepted as a valid treatment for pain-related issues, but it has the potential to treat a wide range of health problems, including the immune system. Research shows that acupuncture can increase the body’s T-cell count, as well as the number of cells that ingest and destroy bacteria, protozoa and cell debris. One study showed that white blood cell counts and mobility have increased by 168 percent within three hours after treatment. ₁ People are beginning to realize that regular acupuncture treatments for their asthma, allergies, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, colds or infections will relieve their symptoms.

As noted earlier, diet also plays a role in immune health. Food sources such as Shiitake mushrooms are recommended by Chinese medicine practitioners for helping protect your health. They contain lentinan, an anti-viral substance which has a strong immuno-stimulating activity. Other foods that are helpful are soy products, certain types of fish and nuts, garlic, sesame seeds, yogurt, and certain fruits and vegetables. The micro-nutrients beta carotene, zinc, and vitamins A, E, and C are also key elements in strengthening our immune system. A diet rich in these foods and nutrients and low in fat is recommended.

Moderate exercise also enhances the immune system but strenuous exercise can deplete the body and decrease overall immunity. Since many of you are athletes that I know love your challenging fitness goals, acupuncture may be a valuable addition to your health maintenance this season.

In conclusion, there is no one food, supplement or treatment that will prevent or cure immune disease or illness but use of prophylactic acupuncture and nutritional sources are recommended.

Here is an article that you might find interesting http://www.acaom.edu/en/cms/1188/
“Acupuncture Research Study Shows Significant Improvement in Baseline Natural Killer Cell Activity in Athletes”

₁ Expert Advice-Treatment of Immune Deficiency in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM):
By Wei Liu, TCMD, MPH, LAC, Changzhen Gong, PhD, MS
The American Academy of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (AAAOM)