Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (353 page)

AVOID

Heavy, fatty, and starchy foods. These foods feel comforting but ultimately deplete you of energy and leave you feeling lethargic and literally fed up.

Sugar, refined carbohydrates, alcohol, and caffeine. These suppress the immune system and provide empty calories without supplying the essential nutrients you need for health.

HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Astragalus is a superior immune tonic that maintains our defenses. This super herbal food raises the body’s resistance to external pathogens and strengthens the body’s effectiveness in fighting viruses and infections.

Echinacea has long been used to support the immune system when it has been compromised.

Take a vitamin B complex, too, as you need B vitamins for antibody production and for immune-building white cells.

Ginseng root. Siberian ginseng is a nutritive tonic. It neutralizes the effects of free radicals (destructive molecules) during periods of stress. It also helps the body adapt to stressors. It sends messages through the body’s immune system, acting as a catalyst for the release of certain hormones essential for immune defense.

Oregon grape contains a compound called berberine that supports the fight against nasty bacterias.

Olive leaf. This immune herb contains effective natural antiobiotic support against dozens of bacteria strains.

Ginger root nurtures the regulation of compounds important for immunity. It has a soothing, antiseptic support action on the body’s ability to handle external wind and cold.

Licorice root. This herb and tea helps to counteract the immune suppressive effects of stress. It also moisturizes and soothes immune organ membranes.

Lemon peel tea. Place the peel of a lemon in a cup and squeeze a little of the juice into a cup of warm water.

Pau d’arco tea. This tea contains a strong antifungal, antiparasitic, antimicrobial compound. It also helps to maintain the integrity of red-blood cells and other immune-supporting organs.