Super Immunity is the bodys immune system working to its fullest potential You rarely become ill, and when you do, you bounce back quickly Building defenses against cancer
Copyright 2011 Joel Fuhrman, M.D.
Why do we need Super Immunity?
American adults average 2-4 colds per year, and children 6-10 colds Global travel and trade Antibiotic resistance Flu can be serious and prolonged The immune system protects us from cancer
Copyright 2011 Joel Fuhrman, M.D.
Cancer rates increased from 1935-2005
Lifetime probability of being diagnosed with invasive cancer:
44% (men), 37% (women) Copyright 2011 Joel Fuhrman, M.D.
The standard American diet (SAD):
promotes chronic disease and suppresses immune function
Virulence (how powerful) Immune response (virus removed quickly?) Nutritional status (immune system effective?)
Copyright 2011 Joel Fuhrman, M.D.
Superior nutrition: the secret to Super Immunity Macronutrients have calories: Carbohydrate, protein, fat
Micronutrients do not contain calories:
Vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals Micronutrients with immune-modulating functions
H = N/C (Health = Nutrients / Calories) Copyright 2011 Joel Fuhrman, M.D.
Superior nutrition can suppress the diseasecausing potential of pathogens
Transmission of HIV is significantly reduced with excellent nutrition Influenza virus is more virulent in nutritionallydeficient host Complications of viral illness (e.g. nerve damage) more likely in nutrient-deficient host. Plus, symptoms improve upon supplementation
Copyright 2011 Joel Fuhrman, M.D.
What do Phytochemicals do?
Induce detoxification enzymes
Control oxidative stress (antioxidants) Detoxify carcinogens Protect cell structures from damage by toxins Fuel DNA repair mechanisms Impede replication of cells with damaged DNA Antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral effects Improve immune cells cytotoxic power
Copyright 2011 Joel Fuhrman, M.D.
Phytochemicals, health and longevity
Relative risk of death
0.75
0.5
0.25 0
10
15
Serum -carotene (g/dl)
Copyright 2011 Joel Fuhrman, M.D.
Which foods are richest in
phytochemicals, antioxidants, and other micronutrients?