October 2007

Healthy lifestyle boosts immune
system better than supplements

A Harvard Medical School report entitled “The Truth About Your Immune System: What you need to know” reports that although vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements can help complement a healthy diet and lifestyle, you shouldn’t count on them to boost their immune response.

Although many supplement manufacturers claim their products “support” immunity, there is not enough scientific evidence to back up the claims. According to Michael N. Starnbach, PhD, the Harvard Medical School expert who edited the 43-page report, the reason is that science has not yet determined what level of immune system cells will best help the body resist disease.

The report says the lifestyle factors that appear to help keep the immune system in shape are the same ones that promote overall health, such as:

• Avoiding tobacco;
• Eating a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in saturated fat;
• Exercising regularly;
• Maintaining a healthy weight;
• Controlling blood pressure;
• Drinking only in moderation (if at all);
• Getting adequate sleep; and
• Taking steps to avoid infection, such as washing your hands frequently and preparing foods safely.

To obtain a copy of the report, go online to www.health.harvard.edu/E or call 877-649-9457. The report is $16.

Harvard Health Publications, www.hms.harvard.edu

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