What does the body know about the food we consume?
There are three macromolecules essential for all forms of life – DeoxyriboNucleic Acid (DNA), RiboNucleic Acid (RNA) and proteins.
In the nucleus of each cell, the DNA molecule is packaged into thread-like structures called chromosomes. Each chromosome is made up of DNA tightly coiled many times around proteins called histones that support its structure. DNA holds genetic information which makes you uniquely you.
Genes needs to be expressed in the body to determine how a body looks and functions but DNA cannot be read by the body on its own. There is a two step process for gene expression called transcription and translation.
DNA information is carried out of the nucleus into the cellular cytoplasm using a molecule called "messenger RNA" (mRNA). This process is called "transcription."
The mRNA attaches to ribosomal RNA (rRNA) in the cytoplasm. rRNA directs the "translation" of mRNA into proteins. Transfer RNA (tRNA ) is also located in the cytoplasm. tRNA transfers amino acids to the rRNA. Which amino acids depends on the message from the mRNA.
The amino acids then can be joined together and processed to make proteins. Proteins have many jobs, for example, catalysing reactions, transporting oxygen and defending organisms from infection. Protein function depends absolutely on the DNA sequence of its coding gene.
Simply put, the three RNAs together present a readable version of the genes in your DNA which can then be expressed throughout your body. The process is called translation.
RNA is also secreted from dead cells anywhere in the body. It is then evaluated and coded by the thymus (more on the thymus in a later post.) From this your body knows what areas are damaged and need restoring. The RNA is then secreted by the parotid gland into the saliva. The parotid is the largest salivary gland. This process encodes the food that is being chewed. The digestive system can then respond appropriately to the food. It can also select the appropriate nutrition to repair parts of the body that need it.
This is why it is so important to chew our food. Not just because it allows us to properly digest our food but also so that our body can identify which areas of the body need to be repaired due to damaged tissue.
A lot of our immunity is derived from good digestion. The gut needs to be balanced using appropriate gut flora nutrition, hydrochloric acid and enzymes.
Vitamin A in the form of beta carotene is great for the immune system. Vitamin A supports mucous membranes of the lungs, the digestive tract, the spleen and the liver. These are all involved in detoxing the body. It can also restore wet tissue areas of the body such as eyes, lips and throat. Supplements, such as Zambroza and Spirulina contain large amounts of Vitamin A. Vitamin A is found in yellow, red and green (leafy) vegetables, such as spinach, carrots, sweet potatoes and red peppers, yellow fruit, such as mango, papaya and apricots.
Vitamin C is great for the immune system. Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant that can boost your blood antioxidant levels. Vitamin C helps white blood cells function more effectively, strengthening your skin’s defense system, and helping wounds heal faster. Vitamin C is found in many fruits and vegetables, including oranges, strawberries, kiwi fruit, bell peppers, broccoli, kale, and spinach.
Various vitamins, antioxidants and herbs are good to boost the immune system such as Vitamin B3, B5, B6, E, Aloe Vera, Chromium, Selenium, Zinc, Co-Q10 and Grapine.
How can Kinesiology help?
You can find out what your body needs to repair damaged tissue using Kinesiology. Kinesiology can use techniques to find out what supplements or foods will help repair damaged tissue. The suggested nutrition and supplements will help but as we are all unique, our body's can respond differently. What might be good for your best friend might be bad for you and what might be bad for them might not be harmful for your body at all. Your body knows though. Kinesiology uses the basis of muscle testing to find out what your body needs.
What can you do now?
As well as eating the foods already suggested, hot drinks such as lemon and ginger or lemon and honey will strengthen your immune system every day of the year.