General Health Information

The respiratory system is composed of the nose, sinuses, throat, and lungs. The primary function of the respiratory system is to provide oxygen to the body and to remove carbon dioxide. It also has a critical role in fluid balance and is intricately tied to the cardiovascular system.

Oxygen is critical to our survival and a healthy respiratory system ensures adequate oxygen supply to our body. Our supply of oxygen can be insufficient if the lungs, nose, or sinuses become obstructed or do not function properly. Obstruction can occur when there is excess mucous build-up often due to allergen irritation or infectious microbes. A healthy respiratory system also rids our bodies of toxins and metabolic by-products like carbon dioxide. Both a good intake of oxygen and a good exhalation of waste products are equally important to a healthy respiratory system.

A healthy respiratory system also provides resistance against allergens and infections. Along with a healthy diet, a program of regular exercise that increases oxygen intake, and avoidance of smoke, pollen, and other allergens help to ensure a healthy respiratory system. Tobacco should be avoided entirely.

Numerous dietary supplements can help in various ways when dealing with respiratory problems. A daily intake of high quality vitamins and minerals can help keep the respiratory system functioning at its peak. Herbs such as mullein, slippery elm, and marshmellow act as expectorants and are useful when phlegm and congestion are present. Green tea, eucalyptus, and rosemary help to open up the sinuses and lungs when constriction or wheezing occurs. Quercetin and garlic are useful when combating chronic allergies. Furthermore, antioxidants can help protect the lungs from free radical damage.

Wellness Plan

Regular exercise and weight control Well balanced diet with plenty of fluids Avoid smoking and air pollution Pharmacist’s Supplement Recommendations: Herbs and Phytonutrients - garlic, bioflavonoids, quercetin, carotenoids, lycopene, mullein, stinging nettle, marshmellow, elderberry, slippery elm, ginkgo biloba, turmeric, bilberry, rosemary, green tea, eucalyptus, onion, horseradish Vitamins and Minerals - vitamins A, C, & E, B2, B3, B6, B12, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, PABA, copper, iron, sulphur, selenium, sodium, molybdenum Antioxidants - coenzyme Q10, OPC’s (grade seed & grape skin extracts, Pycnogenol), glutathione, peroxidase, n-acetylcysteine, NADH Essential Fatty Acids - omega-3 (DHA & EPA), omega-6 (GLA)