January 19, 2010
Cancer and our Life (2)
Improving immunity with vitamins and minerals
Our natural defense system protects us from many enemies including cancer. One of the reasons why our immunity becomes weakened is that we do not get enough vitamins and minerals from foods, as we may not eat enough vegetables.
According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination survey conducted in 2007, the average intake of vegetables is only 290g per person in Japan. This does not reach the national target level of 350g. Some say that the nutrition levels of vegetables might be higher when vegetables are in season. Therefore, we might be short of vitamins and minerals from our food even when we increase the amount of vegetables we eat.
Immune system against cancers
Cancer cells are generated even in the bodies of healthy people, and our natural defense system can usually destroy cancer cells if the system works properly. One of the immune cells is called Natural Killer (NK) cell. It is reported that the risk of getting cancer is higher when NK cells are inactive. It is common that that NK cells become inactive through aging.
Some ways to activate NK cells is to soak in hot spring water or a Jacuzzi, eat a well-balanced diet, and to live life by laughing. Some foods are reported effective to help activate NK cells. Early detection and support for your natural defense system are important factors for cancer prevention. In addition to periodical cancer screening, try to live a relaxed life by laughing, minimize stress and eat well balanced foods like Sun Chlorella.
