Dr. Michael Murray The IMMUNE FA CTOR - Natural MediFAQS

Here are some basic recommendations that I am sure
that you have heard before, but you may not have really
understood why they are important:
Rest
The immune system functions better under the
parasympathetic arm of our autonomic nervous system,
the system that controls unconscious body functions.
The parasympathetic arm assumes control over bodily
functions during periods of rest, relaxation, visualization,
meditation and sleep. During the deepest levels of
sleep, potent immune enhancing compounds are
released and many immune functions are greatly
increased. The value of sleep and rest during a cold
cannot be overemphasized. In contrast, the other arm
of the autonomic nervous system, the sympathetic arm,
takes control when we are under stress and is largely
responsible for the so-called fight or flight response.
Hormones, like adrenaline, released by the flight or
fight response actually impair immune function. After
all, you would not be too concerned about the common
cold if you were being chased by a tiger. So, rest is an
important recommendation to boost immune function.
Consume Liquids
Additional Natural Immune Support
Drink lots of fluids. Increased fluid consumption offers
several benefits. When the membranes that line the
respiratory tract get dehydrated it provides a much
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