What causes endometriosis? There are many theories, but no one knows for sure. One of the most plausible theories is that endometriosis is caused by a breakdown in the immune system. Continuing research indicates that dioxin and other pollutants create chemical reactions in our bodies which can alter many of our body systems, especially the immune system function. More toxins mean more free radicals ravaging through our system. Free radicals are atoms that contain at least one unpaired electron. These "free" electrons can bind easily with any other atoms or molecules in the body and can cause dramatic damage throughout our entire system.

Even if a breakdown in the immune system is not responsible for causing endometriosis, immune system function certainly becomes impaired once we have this disease. Many of us with Endo are much more susceptible to catching every virus and infection going around, and many of us seem to have a severe lack of energy most of the time. Fortunately, there are many foods, herbs, and supplements that can help strengthen our weakened body systems and improve our health!

Antioxidant vitamins and minerals are extremely important to proper functioning of the immune system. Vitamins, minerals, foods, and herbs that have antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals by binding to the free electrons, therefore rendering them harmless. Dr. Andrew Weil, a leader in the field of natural healing, often recommends this "Antioxidant Cocktail" to boost the immune system functions: Vitamin C:1000-2000mg 2-3 times daily Beta-carotenes / mixed carotenes: 25,000IU once daily (This is preferable over Vitamin A, as large amounts of Vitamin A in supplement form can be dangerous, whereas carotenes can safely be stored in the body and then be converted by the body into Vitamin A as it is needed.) Vitamin E: 400IU-800IU once daily Selenium: 200-300mcg once daily He suggests that Vitamin E and Selenium be taken together as Selenium helps with the absorption of Vitamin E. He also suggests that Vitamin C be taken at a separate time than the Vitamin E and Selenium as some forms of selenium can inhibit the absorption of Vitamin C. Zinc has also been found to be important in the proper functioning of the immune system and in tissue repair, approximately 30mg per day is suggested.

The strongest antioxidants come from maritime pine bark and grape seed. These are called proanthocyanidins, or OPC's (sometimes called pycnogenol) and have been found to be 50 times more potent than Vitamin E, and 20 times more potent than Vitamin C. It is generally recommended that you take 1mg per pound of body weight daily.

The following herb and food supplements also act as antioxidants and all can safely be taken on a daily basis: Astragalus, Elderberry, Echinacea (Purpurea is the strongest and most effective variety of Echinacea), Chaparral, Bee Pollen, Royal Jelly (do not use bee products if you have severe reactions to bee stings), Parthenium, Morinda (also known as Noni), Garlic, Pau D'Arco, Spirulina, Barley Juice, Wheat Grass Juice (do not use if you have wheat allergies), Cabbage powder, Broccoli powder, and Asparagus powder. Other very helpful supplements for the immune system are Evening Primrose Oil, Black Currant Oil, and Fish Oil lipids, but I will have more information on these supplements in the next column which will talk about essential fatty acids.

Diet is of course the most important factor in the proper functioning of the immune system. Avoid white sugar and flour, red meat, dairy foods, caffeine, tobacco, food additives, and processed foods. Eat as many organic fruits and veggies as you possibly can, whole grains such as buckwheat, brown rice, wheat, cornmeal, oats, rye, and barley, legumes and raw nuts and seeds (flax seeds are extremely beneficial), and unsaturated fats. Try to stick to a low fat, moderate protein diet, occasionally eating protein from free range eggs and poultry, and fish.

The thymus gland has been found to play a large part in immune system function and there is a product available called "Thymic Formula" developed by Dr. Carson Burgsteiner that contains Thymic extract along with a huge amount of immune enhancing herbs, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and amino acids and this product has helped many people with diabetes, arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and many other immune system health problems. Some other brands of herbs and vitamin supplements that you can trust are Nature's Sunshine Products, Solaray, Schiff, KAL, and Frontier.

Of course, getting the rest that your body needs, daily exercise, and positive imagery all play a role in proper immune system function. An excellent and gradual program for changing your lifestyle to a healthier one can be found in Dr. Andrew Weil's book, "Spontaneous Healing", and I strongly urge everyone to look for this book, or any of his other books at the library or bookstore. They are fascinating and full of information about alternative therapies explained in down to earth language. He also has a web site called "Ask Dr. Weil" at www.drweil.com which is also a wonderful informational web site.

Good luck and good health to all!!!

"These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease."