On a daily basis, you are constantly exposed to microorganisms that are inhaled, swallowed, absorbed or ingested. The strength of your immune system determines if these organisms will become a cold/disease. When your immune system is working at its optimum capacity – you won’t even notice them. But, when you have an underachieving immune system you are at greater risk for “catching” or developing infections and health conditions.

Given everyone’s recent concern over the Coronavirus (and other things ranging from the common cold to the Flu) here are some ways to bio-hack your immune system to 100% so that you can be fearless (remember – even in the valley of the shadow of illness you should fear no evil for HE is with you!).

#1 Load Up on Immune-Boosting Nutrients

The following are essential nutrients needed for proper immune function:

• Vitamin C. The recommended dosage is between 1,000 – 4,000 mg/day. Best when taken in its raw form or complex with ECGC (Epigallocatechin gallate) found in green tea. We recommend CTV from Systemics as it’s a combination of vitamin C and ECGC.
• Selenium. Selenium helps to stimulate and also balance a healthy immune system. Most Americans are selenium deficient, despite selenium being found in various foods (brazil nuts, eggs, sunflower seeds, mushrooms). The recommendation is 200 mcg/d several times a week. Pure Encapsulations (amazon.com) produces the best Selenium. (Note: Selenium also drastically helps to improve thyroid hormone production which is essential for a healthy immune system.
• Iodine. Iodine also plays an important role in immune health, and many Americans don’t get enough of it. Significant sources of iodine in the diet include sea vegetables, fish, eggs, and grass-fed dairy. If you plan to supplement with iodine, consider 1.0 mg per day of iodine in the form of kelp capsules or kelp salt. Special Note: if you have an autoimmune thyroid condition (Hashimoto’s) you will want to avoid this recommendation.
• Zinc: Yet again another immune nutrient most Americans are deficient in – and the challenge is that most foods classically linked to zinc are often eliminated on the Cellular Healing Diet (Pork and Shellfish). Excellent sources of Zinc include grass-fed red meats, free-range chicken, pumpkin seeds, cashews, almonds, and chickpeas. You can also take 2 tsp (10cc) of Zinc Sulfate Heptahydrate, the most natural form of Zinc supplements which is found in ZNC from Systemic Formulas.

#2 Drink 1 Glass of Fresh Ginger Tea Daily

Ginger is a potent immune booster and anti-viral that prevents the adhesion of inhaled viruses in the upper respiratory mucosa. Simply grate some fresh ginger root (approximately 1/2 tsp worth) and place it in a mug with hot water and steep for 1-2 min before drinking. For an added boost, add a dash or up to 1/8 tsp of cayenne pepper. It’s recommended to have at least 1-2 cups per day for full effect.

#3 Elderberry Syrup

Elderberry is one of the most effective botanicals for strengthening immune function and preventing viral infections. Simply consume 1 tsp 2x a day to fortify your immune system. Be wary of OTC elderberry syrups as most have unwanted sugars. You can make your own very easily using the recipe of the week below.

#4 Maintain Healthy Vitamin D3 Levels 


Unlike other vitamins and minerals, your Vitamin D levels are associated directly with the strength of your immune system. Research shows that vitamin D works to promote protective immunity against infection from all forms of microorganisms (viral, bacterial and fungal). It’s alarming that on average 45-50% of Americans are deficient in vitamin D3. Optimal blood ranges are between 80-100ng/ml which often requires an adult to consume 10-15,000 IU daily. We recommend DV3 by Systemic Formulas as it also contains the immune boosters vitamin E, beta-glucan, turmeric, L-carnitine, calcium, magnesium and vitamin K2 (essential for the absorption of vitamin D3).

#5 Spinal Adjustments / Chiropractic Care

It comes as no surprise that your immune system is controlled by your nerve system. After all, they are one and the same! Regular chiropractic care (2-4x monthly) has been shown to increase white blood cell count, T-Helper Cells, CD4 Cells, NK Cells and various immune signaling modulators (IL-2 and TNF – Tumor Necrosis Factor). Every adjustment you receive is orchestrating and optimizing your immune system to protect you from microorganisms and internal health conditions.