While you can catch the flu year-round, it often peaks between December and March. Curious how you might fight it off this year? A combination of LDN and several vitamin-rich foods may just be what you need to do more with those you love this winter.
What is LDN?
Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) is an oral medication that works with the immune and endorphin systems to create various therapeutic effects. LDn is commonly used to lower markers of inflammation in the body, reducing chronic pain and fatigue.
How does LDN improve immunity?
Research has shown LDN’s ability to reduce inflammation by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines, as well as increasing Met-enkephalins.
LDN & Reducing Multiple Pro-inflammatory Cytokines
As you get older, your immune system weakens and chronic inflammation sets in. It has been shown that LDN reduces inflammation by reducing multiple pro-inflammatory cytokines (a broad and loose category of small proteins important in cell signaling).
In an 8-week single-blinded pilot study using 4.5mg of LDN each night, serum levels of numerous proinflammatory cytokines were significantly reduced. By reducing these levels, inflammation is also reduced; in turn, LDN helps the immune system stay strong.
LDN & Increasing Met-enkephalin
When we experience pain, our body releases chemicals to lower the pain. These same chemicals are also released when we do something pleasant, like exercise or listen to music. These chemicals are called opioids. Met-enkephalins are one of these opioids and are found mainly in the adrenal gland and throughout the Central Nervous System. Numerous studies have indicated that Met-enkephalin displays the capacity to stimulate an immune response, having a positive effect on different types of immune cells.
Clinical evidence supports LDN’s ability to raise Met-enkephalin levels and further modulates the immune system.
For more information on LDN and the Immune System, click here.
What are some immune boosting foods?
Whether or not you elect to pursue an LDN prescription this cold season, there are some quick and easy things you can do to further support your immune system during this time. Your diet or daily food choices is a great place to start.
Below is a quick-start guide to ten easy foods that might help boost your immune system:
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To learn more about LDN, or request a prescription, click here.