iThei mdcdaelcinfd o c elllllrllll mmthsl mbThkThhpsexposure to heavy metals and environmental pollutants; tobacco smoke;
and the presence of viral, bacterial, or fungal pathogens.
Lifestyle factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, negative attitudes, chronic
stress, insomnia, and rapid muscle building (with heavy weightlifting or
anabolic steroids) have also been shown to weaken the immune system
and should be modified to ensure healthy immune function.
In contrast, the following immune-strengthening substances have been
identified: garlic extract (also has antimicrobial function), vitamin E (an
antioxidant), ginkgo biloba (through reduction of excess cortisol produc-
tion), colostrum, DHEA (an adrenal hormone), olive oil, coconut oil,
the herb neem, vitamin A, cod liver oil, L-glutamine, probiotics, low-
dose naltrexone (LDN), and omega-3 fatty acids.
Adequate hydration, exercise, meditation, a positive outlook, forgiveness,
letting go of resentments, and long-term goals are also beneficial not just
to our overall well-being but also to immune function.
Low-Dose Naltrexone
Low-dose naltrexone (LDN) has been reported to enhance immune
function by increasing our endogenous adrenaline production, reducing
inflammatory cytokines, promoting DNA synthesis, and slowing down
motility in the GI tract to facilitate healing. LDN increases the num-
ber of T regulatory cytokines IL-1 and TGF-b, leading to a reduction of
Th17, the promoter of autoimmunity.
Naltrexone is an FDA-approved medication used for opioid withdrawal
at a dose of 50 mg daily. Only low doses of 1.5–4.5 mg a day, however,
have been found to tweak the immune system. This treatment has shown
promise in improving cases of autoimmune disease, including Crohn’s,
MS, and Hashimoto’s as well as other immune-system–related condi-
tions such as cancer and HIV/AIDS.
Dedicated to sharing research on LDN, lowdosenaltrexone.org is full
of testimonials about ulcers, tumors, and lesions disappearing within
months of initiating LDN.
The website authors caution users with Hashimoto’s taking supplemen-
tal thyroid hormone to start low (1.5 mg a night) and watch for emerg-
ing signs of hyperthyroidism that may result from rapid improvement
of the condition.