Vitamin D + Blueberries = Powerful Duo For Immunity

Researchers testing 446 compounds for their immune boosting ability found two that stood out from the pack: Resveratrol, found in red grapes, and pterostilbene, which is highly concentrated in blueberries. Add some vitamin D to the mix and these two compounds can help the body quickly fight off infections.

These Compounds Switch On a Germ-Fighting Gene

In the study published in Molecular Nutrition and Food Research, scientists in the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University discovered that the two compounds, known as stilbenoids, worked in tandem with vitamin D to increase the expression of cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide (CAMP), which is a gene involved in immune function. When expressed, or “switched on,” this gene produces a protein that is effective in killing a broad spectrum of bacteria.

In the course of the research when the compounds were analyzed individually, the benefit was modest. However, when either compound was combined with vitamin D3 that the body makes from sunlight exposure, the rise in this germ-fighting gene expression was significant.

The CAMP gene is of considerable interest to researchers, as it is known to play a key role in the body’s first line of defense involved in fighting bacterial infection. Since many antibiotics are losing their effectiveness, it has become critically important to find ways of boosting the body’s naturalimmune system.

This study was conducted in laboratory cell cultures rather than humans, so it does not prove eating these foods will boost immunity. Further research is needed before this conclusion can be drawn. Nonetheless, it is clear that the fruit is a vital part of a healthy diet.

Resveratrol and Pterostilbene May Have Other Health Benefits

Resveratrol, found in the skins of red grapes, has been featured in dozens of studies exploring its range of possible benefits. These include fighting cancer, enhancing cardiovascular health and reducing inflammation in addition to improving muscle strength and boosting metabolism. The compound may also be helpful for neurodegenerative diseases.

Aside from pterostilbene’s value in fighting infections, research shows it has can also help fight cancer and diabetes as well as reverse cognitive decline. Another impressive benefit of the compound is that it is as effective as the commercial drug ciprofibrate in lowering lipids and triglycerides, especially because it offers this action without side effects.

Sources:

via Blogger http://chiropractic-lane.blogspot.com/2013/11/vitamin-d-blueberries-powerful-duo-for.html