Question : I'M 61 years old and have been doing exercises regularly. I do not smoke and abstain from cold drinks and fried food. However, I often suffer from a sore throat and phlegm.
Answer : SORE throat or pharyngitis is a pharynx inflammation resulting from infection, either by a virus or bacteria. A weak immune system and food allergy are the common causes of sore throat. Non-infectious causes are excessive shouting or singing, allergies, environmental irritants and tobacco use.
You may supplement your diet with beta-carotene and vitamins C and E. Beta-carotene is pro-vitamin A that can be converted into vitamin A as and when it is required by the body. Vitamin A serves an important function in the maintenance of mucous membranes and generates antibody responses. Vitamin C strengthens white blood cells that fight against infections and vitamin E is the most effective antioxidant in maintaining membrane cell integrity and immune cell function.
As a weak immune system is one of the common causes, you may boost it by taking a natural antibiotic, Allicin. Allicin is a stardardised garlic extract that works by stimulating cells, killing pathogens and detoxifying carcinogens. Allicin is able to penetrate the cell walls of microorganisms, upset their biochemical balance and impede their activity.
Probiotics (friendly bacteria) contributes to health maintenance in the gastrointestinal tract, inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria. This helps to strengthen the immune system and allay allergy conditions.
You should take less sugar and saturated fat, which makes the body vulnerable to infections and allergies. Eat more green and yellow vegetables, raw fruits, nuts and seeds to help eliminate harmful bacteria, viruses and fungi. Drink plenty of water (at least eight glasses in a day), herbal teas and fruit juices. Gargle half a cup of water with half teaspoon of salt every few hours.
Perhaps you should change to a new toothbrush every month. Chronic mental and emotional stress can suppress immune function. Sufficient sleep (at least eight hours daily) and regular moderate physical activity such as swimming, jogging, gardening and yoga help in relaxation and strengthening the immune system.
