Nutrition and Immunity

We have long known that one cause of secondary immunodeficiency is malnutrition. And we are constantly bombarded by claims that this or that supplement will "boost your immune system," whether they be online, on television or via naturopathic practioners. Many of these 'supplement' claims are overreaching if not downright false. And little scientific evidence seems to validate such assertions.

In contrast, a recent story in the Wall Street Journal has a nice (albeit brief) summary of what we know about nutrition & the immune system. I would always argue that the best way to obtain the proper amount of nutrients is not through a pill, but via a balanced diet.

Does your child have allergies?

Take the Childrens Allergy Quiz

Update: Sakina Bajowala. M.D. asked about the stress reduction therapy mentioned at the end of this posting. I assumed this was an advertisement for the author of the article. I believe that there are neuropsychoimmunologic connections that affect many chronic diseases, including allergies. However, I do not endorse any specific technique unless it's shown to provide efficacy in peer-reviewed, reputable journals. Thanks for the question Sakina.

The Lung Flute

Popular Science has a nice artile on an innovator who created a device that helps those with chronic lungs issues (emphysema, asthma, cystic fibrosis, etc) mobilize their mucus.