How the immune system fights off invaders, from splinters to vaccines
Our immune systems consist of two parts: the innate (or general) immune system and the adaptive (or acquired) immune system. In this video, family physician Dr. Erica Zelfand explains the basics of these two systems, illuminating how they each fight germs (like bacteria, viruses, and fungi) and foreign substances (like chemicals and splinters). Dr. Zelfand also defines: antigens, antibodies, inflammation, phagocytes, natural killer cells, B cells, and T cells, and explains the brilliant cascade by which the innate and adaptive immune systems work together to protect us from illness year-round and life-long. Brief explanations of immunological memory and vaccination are also included herein.
The Power of Echinacea
A natural alternative for sneeze and sniffle prevention Perhaps you know it for its distinct flower – a pronounced brown central cone, surrounded by delicate purple petals – and its common botanical name, purple coneflower. Or maybe, you know it as a natural remedy to take for protection against the sniffles and sneezes of…
How Stress Hurts the Immune System – And What to Do About it (Video)
Stress: it isn’t just in your head. In this video, Dr. Erica Zelfand explains how our bodies respond to stress and how those reactions can wreak havoc on our immunological function, weight, blood sugar, heart health, and overall wellbeing. Topics covered include: the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, the adrenal glands, cortisol, adrenaline, and the effects…
How Gut Health Keeps Kids Healthy
A blend of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli supports pediatric respiratory and skin health Achoo! Sniffle, snort! Scratch, scratch, scratch. Is allergy season here again? Or are we stuck in the dregs of cold and flu season? Wait, is there a season where kiddos aren’t dealing with some kind of infection or allergy? Could probiotics help?…
