THE ALCHEMIC HEALTH BLOG

All Immune System

November 13, 2020

Longevity: Thymus Health and Regeneration

The thymus is an amazing little gland in the body that does some very important things. It’s part of the lymphatic system along with adenoids, spleen and tonsils and is also part of the endocrine system. It is located in the center of the chest behind the sternum and is responsible for producing progenitor cells which mature into T-cells (thymus-derived cells). The thymus also produces immune regulating compounds, hormones such as thymosin, thymopoietin and thymulin, as well as other peptides and interleukins. It is one organ that reaches maturity in utero and involutes as we age. The involution of the thymus changes it’s architecture, causing it to lose its organized structure and is replaced with adipose tissues as it becomes functionally less active(1). As we age, our thymus regresses and increases our susceptibility to disease and further aging due to the decline in T-cell output(1)(2). Advance aging correlates with a reduced ability of the immune system to generate antigen specific responses to pathogens. This profound change exhibited by the aging immune system is termed immunosenescence, affecting both innate and adaptive immunity(2). We can help slow down this regression or even regenerate the thymus gland through a number of interventions. By doing this we can reestablish a stronger and healthier immune system, helping ward off aging and age-related diseases.

A number of vitamins and minerals can help the health and functionality of the thymus as we age. High vitamin C intake has shown to suppress age-related thymic atrophy whilst promoting maturation of T-cells(3)(4). Vitamin A deficiency has shown to effect the production of thymosin-β4 and CD4 but high vitamin E intake enhances T-cell differentiation via TEC functions in the thymus(5)(6). Exogeneous melatonin leads to a marked reduction in signs of thymic aging, while being zinc deficient causes age related immunological dysfunction, including thymic failure(9)(10). However, when it comes to increasing thymus health and regeneration, one of the best tools for this job are bioregulatory peptides such as Thymalin.

Thymalin is a synthetic version of thymulin (H-Pyr-Ala-Lys-Ser-Gln-Gly-Gly-Ser-Asn-OH). It was first isolated from the thymus gland in 1977 and has been studied for its geroprotective effects, meaning it aims to affect the root cause of aging and age-related diseases. It regulates immune function via increased T-cell activity, lowering inflammation, raising immunoglobulin A and has shown to be neuroprotective. One study researched the effects Thymalin has on the elderly (60yrs+) over a 6-8 year period, receiving the peptide for the first 2-3 years of observation(7). The results showed the ability for bioregulators to normalize functions in cardiovascular, endocrine, immune and nervous systems. This restoration of homeostasis was accompanied by a 2.0-2.4-fold decrease acute respiratory disease, ischemic heart disease, hypertension disease, osteoarthrosis and osteoporosis(7). There was a significant improvement in the overall health state of the peptide treated patients which correlated with a decreased mortality rate during observations by 2.0-2.1 fold, demonstrating prevention in age related pathology and prolonging active longevity(7).

Other studies show it has pronounced antitumor effects, causing tumor growth arrest and also regression, some seeing growth suppression by 78%(8). Thymalin induced a significant increase in lymphoproliferative activity and the content of tissue basophils and plasmocytes in the thymus lobules(8). The results of other studies shows that thymalin significantly enhances immunological resistance to viral infections(11). Research demonstrates thymalin’s ability to regenerate the thymus gland, helping increase immunity whilst warding off age-related diseases.

A healthy lifestyle is the best way to attain a long and healthy life. If we want to help slow the onset of aging and age-related diseases, we need to incorporate lifestyle and nutritional factors into our life, supporting the body’s organs and systems as we get older. A healthy thymus is vital to longevity and if we support it throughout life with the right nutrients and even peptide technology, we can greatly affect and combat this major factor of aging. Living younger and longer without the diseases that primarily come with advanced age.

Written by Luke Pavasovic
Director and Naturopath at Alchemic Health
facebook.com/alchemichealth
www.alchemichealth.com

References:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539748/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3791471/
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25608928/
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3869442/
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6296595/
6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9523031/
7. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14523363/
8. https://www.pubfacts.com/detail/29797130/Effect-of-Thymalin-on-the-Tumor-and-Thymus-under-Conditions-of-Activation-Therapy-In-Vivo
9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5995606/
10. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8582782/
11. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8067076/

October 14, 2020

Two Hacks for Your Home

We all incorporate dietary, lifestyle and supplement factors into our life to sustain and enhance our health, but what about technology that assists with increasing your health as well? I would like to introduce to you two simple and noninvasive technological hacks you can install into your home that will help increase mood, lower inflammation, boost the immune system and help your overall health.

Negative Ion Generators
First of all what are negative ions? Ions are molecules that have gained or lost and electrical charge. They are created in nature as air molecules that break apart due to radiation, sunlight, and moving air and water. We have all experienced the effects of negative ions when walking at a beach or near a waterfall. When we are around these settings, we not only get a sense of euphoria because they are beautiful but also because these environments are abundant in negative ions.

Negative ions are odorless, tasteless and invisible molecules that when inhaled and enter the bloodstream, they are believed to produce an increase in mood chemicals such as serotonin and also increase the immune system through biochemical reactions. Positive ions are considered to be detrimental to health seeing as most forms of pollution, toxic chemicals and other harmful chemicals in the air carry a positive electrical charge.

Negative ions were discovered more than 100 years ago and widely used for air cleaning. There are numerous studies reviewing the effects of negative ions on humans and animals that have demonstrated increased psychological health, productivity and overall well-being(1).

Five studies on negative ionization and depression were evaluated by level of exposure intensity using meta-analysis. Results showed that negative ionization overall was significantly associated with lower depression ratings, with a stronger association observed at higher levels of negative ions exposure(2).

Negative ion devices have also demonstrated to help remove viruses from the air, effectively preventing airborne transmission of viruses such as influenza A. The device enables unique possibilities of rapid and simple removal of virus from the air(3).

So considering the science, implementing negative ion generators in your home is a simple way to increase overall well-being, psychological health, clean the air and also remove harmful pathogens at the same time. It is a cheap and effective technology to improve your health in your household.

Earthing/Grounding devices
Many of us have heard of grounding, the activity of letting your bare feet/skin come into contact with the Earth. Multi-disciplinary research has revealed that electrically conductive contact of the human body with the surface of the Earth produces intriguing effects on physiology and health(4). These effects relate to inflammation, immune responses, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases(4).

Unfortunately, in our day and age, most of us are constantly in shoes and this insulates us from the Earth which inhibits us from grounding. Then when we get home and take off our shoes, our house or apartments are also insulated and even though we are bare foot in these locations we still are not reaping the benefits of properly grounding which balances out our body’s electrical voltage.

Grounding produces measurable differences in concentration of white blood cells, cytokines and other molecules involved in inflammatory responses. It also reduces pain and alters the number of circulating neutrophils and lymphocytes along with various circulating chemical factors related to inflammation(4).

Modern science has discovered that many of the most debilitating diseases, as well as the aging process, are caused by or are associated with chronic inflammation and oxidative stress(5). Research now reveals that direct contact with the surface of the Earth generates a kind of electric nutrition, with surprisingly potent and rapid anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects(5).

One main hypothesis is that connecting the body to the Earth enables free electrons and ions from the Earth’s surface to spread over and into the body, where they can have antioxidant effects(4). Through this the Earth can prevent or resolve so-called “silent” inflammation(4).

Grounding also appears to improve sleep, normalize the day-night cortisol rhythm, reduces pain, reduces stress, shifts the autonomic nervous system from sympathetic toward parasympathetic activation, increase heart rate variability, speeds up wound healing and reduce blood viscosity(4).

Research has suggested that our disconnect from the Earth may be a major contributor to physiological dysfunction and unwellness(6). Considering this, we need to make an effort to physically reconnect our body to the Earth which helps our overall health and well-being. Seeing as this is hard for many people to do with the current modern life and living situations, grounding can be achieved through Earthing sheets or pads. These are devices that are connected to the power supply which is always grounded, allowing ions to flow from the Earth to the sheet or pad. By installing Earthing sheets in our beds, we can assure we gain the benefits of grounding our body’s at night while we sleep which is one of the most beneficial times. This technology may be expensive, but you cannot put a price on your health.

Written by Luke Pavasovic
Director and Naturopath at Alchemic Health
facebook.com/alchemichealth
www.alchemichealth.com

References:
1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30274196/
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23320516/
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4477231/
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4378297/
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28987038/
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3265077/

August 25, 2020

Immune System Optimisation – Part 2

Following up on my last article, I want to continue providing you with ways to increase your immune system to keep you protected and healthy during these current times.

Selenium
Selenium is an essential trace mineral that is important for immune system function, inflammation, cognitive performance and fertility in both males and females. Adequate levels of selenium are important for initiating immunity (through its incorporation into selenoproteins), but it’s also involved in regulating excessive immune responses and chronic inflammation(1). Selenoproteins play a crucial role in regulating reactive oxygen species (ROS) and redox status in nearly all tissues(2). Deficiency in selenium has recognized to negatively impact immune cells during activation, differentiation and proliferation(1).

Supplementing with selenium has been proposed to have health benefits for patients suffering from viral diseases, specifically HIV and influenza A infections(3). It’s also been shown to improve several clinical and lifestyle variables in patients with these infections. It affects the functions of both adaptive and innate immunity, promotes proliferation and favors differentiation of naive CD4-positive T lymphocytes toward T helper 1 cells, which supports acute cellular immune response(3).

Studies have shown that in Hubei Province where COVID-19 is said to of originated, that this is one of the most selenium deficient areas in all of China(4). Due to this selenium deficiency, many of the population were affected dramatically due to not having the antiviral properties that selenium supports. Investigations hypothesize that selenium status was associated with COVID-19 disease outcome(4).

Therapeutic doses of selenium are 200mcg-300mcg per day, which can be taken in the form of capsule or drops. Foods that contain selenium include Bazil nuts, walnuts, grains, beef, poultry and fish such as tuna, cod and red snapper.

Andrographis
Andrographis paniculata, generally known as “king of bitters” is a herb that is part of the Acanthaceae family which is predominantly found in China, Thailand and Malaysia(6).
Andrographolide (a major bioactive chemical constituent) known for its anti-inflammatory effects, is isolated from various parts of the Andrographis herb(6). This compound has been tested for its effects in conditions such as arthritis, asthma, stroke, hepatic and neural toxicity, carcinoma, ischemia and oxidative stress(5). Apart from this, andrographolide also has immunomodulatory effects by enhancing cytotoxic T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, phagocytosis and antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC)(5). All these properties form the foundation to restrain virus replication and virus-induced pathogenesis(5).

One study has investigated Andrographis’ antiviral activity against dengue virus (DENV). This virus is the most prevalent arthropod-transmitted viral illness with an estimated 100 million symptomatic infections occurring each year and more than 2.5 billion people living at risk of infection(7). Results showed that andrographolides had significant anti-DENV activity in both HepG2 and HeLa cell lines, which reduced both levels of cellular infection and virus output, demonstrating its potential role as an anti-viral agent(7).

The dosage of andrographolides is 60mg for adults and 30mg for children per day, this is usually consumed with food to avoid any gastrointestinal side effects.

Echinacea
Extracts of the Echinacea species have traditionally been used in North America against colds, influenza and other diseases. Recent studies show that preparations derived from certain species and parts of the plant possess potent antiviral properties working against membrane-containing viruses(8). Avian influenza, herpes simplex virus, respiratory syncytial virus and rhinoviruses were all very sensitive to Echinacea purpurea extracts(8). Some extracts displayed anti-inflammatory activity in virus-infected cells and numerous other effects on the expression of cellular genes(8).

Other experimental studies show that the biological properties of Echinacea purpurea are antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral and larvicidal activities(9). The pharmacologically active metabolites of the plant such as alkamides, caffeic acid derivatives, polysaccharides and glycoproteins are believed to be responsible for the therapeutic actions(9).

Echinacea purpurea extracts inhibit virus replication if consumed prior to infection(10). The studies that demonstrate this were done using human H1N1-type IV, highly pathogenic avian IV (HPAIV) of the H5- and H7- types, as well as swine origin IV (S-OIV, H1N1). This was achieved by inhibiting the receptor binding activity of the virus, which suggests that extracts interfere with viral entry into cells(10).

Recommended dosing is 300 mg of dry powdered extract (standardized to echinacoside 3.5%), 0.25 to 1.25 mL of liquid extract (1:1 in alcohol 45%), 1 to 2 mL of tincture (1:5 in alcohol 45%), 2 to 3 mL of expressed juice of E. purpurea, and 0.5 to 1 g of dried root or tea (all administered 3 times daily). Long-term use of echinacea is not recommended, so please use in an acute manner.

This brings us to the end of Immune System Optimisation – Part 2. I hope both articles (part 1 and 2) help you make the right choices in how to increase your immune systems capabilities. These are just some of the ways you can use vitamins and herbs to protect yourself during these times but there are many other avenues available. If you would like more information or have a program tailored specifically for you, please feel free to book an online appointment for a full assessment and treatment plan.

Written by Luke Pavasovic
Director and Naturopath at Alchemic Health
facebook.com/alchemichealth
www.alchemichealth.com

References:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3277928/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3723386/
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4288282/
4. https://academic.oup.com/ajcn/article/111/6/1297/5826147
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27896563/
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3619690/
7. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28034742/
8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4058675/
9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4441164/
10. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19912623/

August 19, 2020

Immune System Optimisation – Part 1

Isn’t it funny, during this pandemic we are all worried about our health and ways to protect ourselves but no one is actually giving any real health advice? It puzzles me why there has been no mention of proper health or nutrition which is the fundamental basis for a strong immune system and overall well-being. Yet we are told about other interventions that really have nothing to do with health and are more in the classification of medical care. Well today I want to bring forward some information that will help you make the right choices to support your immune system.

Vitamin D3
Currently during this pandemic, many people are being isolated with minimal chances to get out and into the sun as much as we are used to. This will inevitably lead to people suffering from lower vitamin D levels. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble nutrient (technically a steroid-like hormone), it helps decrease inflammation and enhances the pathogen fighting effects of macrophages and monocytes(1)

Being deficient in vitamin D can have a negative effect on the immune system, specifically increasing the risk of upper respiratory tract infections, including allergic asthma and influenza(2). A 2019 study demonstrated that supplementing with vitamin D decreases the risk of respiratory infection in those who are deficient and lowers infection risk for those with adequate levels(3).

More recently a study from this year demonstrates that vitamin D could lower infection rates for influenza and COVID-19. It does this through inducing cathelicidins and defensins that lower viral replication rates, decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines that cause inflammatory injuries in the lining of the lungs and increased anti-inflammatory cytokines(4). If you are deficient or worried you are, consider supplementing vitamin D at 10,000iu per day for a few weeks, followed by 5000iu per day as a maintenance dose. The goal is to raise concentrations above 40-60ng/mL(100-150nmol/L)(4).

Please note, to metabolise vitamin D you must also have adequate magnesium levels to support this process(5). I consider it mandatory to supplement both together, for more information on magnesium and dosage please refer to prior posts.

Zinc
Zinc is an essential trace mineral that has numerous benefits, having antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions along with being essential for immune system function(6). Being deficient in zinc decreases the immune system’s ability to function properly, leading to increased risk of disease, including pneumonia(7). Low levels also cause growth retardation and cognitive impairment, so by this we can see it is a vital mineral for numerous aspects in the body(8). Studies show that deficiency greatly inhibits the activation of many zinc-dependent enzymes and transcription factors, which is the culprit for decreased immune function(8).

Zinc status is a critical factor that influences antiviral properties, it stimulates the antiviral processes of the immune system which help ward off viral infections, via numerous mechanisms. Over 50 years of evidence demonstrates zincs therapeutic use against viral infections such as herpes simplex and the common cold(9).

Interestingly, most people at risk of COVID-19 have been shown to be associated with zinc deficiency, this is because zinc is essential to preserve natural tissue barriers in respiratory epithelium which prevents pathogen entry(10).

We can see zinc is highly beneficial for anyone wanting to boost their immune system, especially those with sub-optimal zinc status. Therapeutic doses are between 20-40mg being the upper limit per day, anything over this may lead to toxicity side effects.

Vitamin C
Vitamin C is one of the most popular micronutrients for humans due to its protective role against infection and vital importance in immune function. It is a potent antioxidant and cofactor for a family of biosynthetic and gene regulatory enzymes(11). It supports epithelial barrier function against pathogens and promotes oxidant scavenging of the skin which protects against environment oxidative stress. It accumulates in immune cells and enhances functions through microbial killing mechanisms(11).

Deficiency in vitamin C results in impaired immunity leading to a higher susceptibility to infections. In turn, infections significantly impact vitamin C levels due to enhanced inflammation and metabolic requirements. Supplementation appears to both prevent and treat respiratory and systemic infections(11).

Vitamin C is a well-known antiviral agent, especially against the influenza virus. It increases antiviral immune responses at the early stages of infection due to the increased production of interferon (IFN)-α/β(12).

Additionally, high dose vitamin C administered intravenously has shown to significantly improve symptoms in people with viral infections, including sepsis and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)(13).

All in all, we can see that supplementing with vitamin C plays a significant role in immune function and people who do not get enough in their diet can greatly benefit from increasing consumption. It is advised to supplement between 1000mg-2000mg per day, anything over this may induce gastrointestinal side effects.

This brings us to the end of Immune System Optimisation – Part 1, please keep an eye out for Part 2 with more information on vitamins and herbs that can further help protect you and increase your immune system naturally.

Written by Luke Pavasovic
Director and Naturopath at Alchemic Health
facebook.com/alchemichealth
www.alchemichealth.com

References:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6164750/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3738984/
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30675873/
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7231123/
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28471760/
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2820120/
7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2854541/
8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2277319/
9. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31305906/
10. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32754164/
11. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29099763/
12. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3659258/
13. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7070236/

THE ALCHEMIC HEALTH BLOG

Longevity: Thymus Health and Regeneration

Two Hacks for Your Home

Immune System Optimisation – Part 2

Immune System Optimisation – Part 1

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