The human body is a complex organism with the ability to heal itself - if only we'd listen to it and respond with proper care and nourishment. To do this we need to realize that there are specialized foods, supplements and nutrients for specific areas of our body. Although the body works in total synergy throughout, specific systems within our body require specific nutritional needs.
Let's look briefly at each of these systems as I have gleaned through research, study and reading for my own understanding for nutritional administration.
1. The Immune System. This is not a structure per se, but rather a system of complex interactions involving the organs, hormones, cells, chemicals, including, white cells, antibodies, lymphatic system and glands. The thymus gland which is a major part of this system that is programmed to identify certain types of enemies and deal with various cells and genes that determine chemical structure of proteins in innumerable combination, enzymes, hormones, etc.
Another example of the complex components of the immune system is the lymphatic vessels which involves the spleen, the thymus, the tonsils and the lymph nodes and fluids that circulate through the body. It is the total of the body's defense functions. Because the immune processes are a part of every cell, they affect all the systems of the body. A healthy immune system is critical for good health.
Its purpose is to defend and correctly identify and eliminate metabolic waste, cell mutations and allergens. The body's resistance to viruses, bacteria, allergies, etc. can be enhanced by antioxidant vitamins and mineral supplements. Energy can be boosted with effective herbals and green foods.
2. The Circulatory System includes the heart, the blood and blood vessels. This system also touches the whole of the body since it transports nutrients and oxygen to every parts and carries away harmful agents. This system is a corporate network of some sixty thousand miles of blood vessels.
Proper maintenance of our circulatory system is to give it pure water, regular exercise, good nutritional foods and supplement support. Stress management is also imperative, as it is for all the divisions of the body. Imbalances in this system can affect all other systems, particularly the nervous, respiratory and gastrointestinal systems.
3. The Digestive System includes the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, liver, gall bladder, pancreas and small and large intestines. Here, the food is broken down starting in the mouth by physical and chemical changes in order to be absorbed through the intestinal system into the bloodstream. The digestive chemicals that cause the breakdown of the foods are called "enzymes". Further processing continues to take place in the small and large intestine.
Any imbalances in this system will affect nutrient absorption and other body systems. For example, in the circulatory system this could cause toxins to be absorbed into the bloodstream and harmful stagnation in the elimination area. Nutrient rich foods like vegetables and fruits are most important here.
4. The Intestinal System has been called the body's waste disposal plant. It is part of the digestive system and includes the small and large intestines and the rectum. In the small intestine, vital nutrients are absorbed in the blood. In the large intestine, water is absorbed from the digestive waste which is subsequently eliminated from the body. The efficiency of the system results from good muscle tone, a healthy bacterial environment and sufficient amounts of fibre to give bulk to the stool.
Here too, imbalances will affect all other systems. The result will be a general decline in health caused by the build-up of wastes and toxins. Some of the common concerns might be constipation, diarrhea, colitis, crohn's disease, etc. Herbalists traditionally start a health improvement program with a cleansing of the intestinal system before moving on to other areas, in order to carry away these build-ups of waste and toxin.
5. The Nervous System comprised of the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system includes the spinal cord, the brain, the endocrine and sensory nervous system, including the eyes, ears, nose and tongue. Its prime function is to communicate responses between the internal and external environments through hormones and chemicals that affect metabolism, muscles, heartbeat, etc.
Here too, imbalances can affect all other systems and interfere with our response to the external environment which can cause us to react negatively toward stress factors. An unhealthy nervous system will cause nervousness, anxiety disorders and other acute and chronic stress and damage that will affect the natural fight-or-flight reactions to emergency situations.
6. The Respiratory System is made up of airways, respiratory muscles, the lungs, the trachea, the throat, mouth and sinuses. Its function is to breath oxygen into the blood, and trap and expel airborne toxins. Imbalances of the respiratory system can affect the immune, circulatory and nervous systems. Diseases that interfere with normal breathing can disrupt carbon dioxide levels which in turn can effect other lungs and pulmonary problems. Herbal remedies and vitamins have been traditional in helping to build its function.
7. The Urinary System is made up of the kidneys, bladder, ureter and urethra tubes. Its function is to maintain a proper fluid, water and salt balance in the body. It filters toxins from the blood and eliminate them through urine. Imbalances in the urinary system often affect the glandular and circulatory system, the reproductive organs, adrenal glands and major blood vessels. Here too herbal remedies and vitamins have played a traditional role in enhancing and healing urinary diseases.
8. The Glandular System consists of the hormone producing organs that communicate and regulates basic drives and emotions involving the pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, thymus, adrenal, pancreas, etc. These glands perform a multitude of regulatory functions, including temperature control and metabolic rate. Here, foods rich in minerals and trace minerals along with a well balanced diet provides the best source of support.
9. The Structural System includes the bones, cartilage, fibrous connective tissues like tendons and ligaments, joints and muscles, teeth, Its function is to provide the body with form and frame, and give the ability to move and work. Calcium, one of the most abundant minerals in the body, is used constantly to replace old bone tissue. Imbalances in the structural system often affect the nervous, circulatory and urinary systems.
Also included in this system are the skin, nails and hair which are supported nutritionally from the inside and are cleansed from the outside in order to keep the body clean of toxins and to maintain good health. Skin, the largest organ of the body, protects the body from the outside environment and acts as a cooling system. All foods and supplements rich in energy producing fuel such as proteins, vitamins and minerals strong in bone supports are essential.
The idea is not to know everything about these systems, but to realize that each deals with specialized jobs and functions. As such each system requires certain foods and nutrients that target their specific tasks and purposes. Being aware of this will help you to discuss with your health professional the best combination of nutrients for maximum health and nutrition./dmh
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