Over the past few years, more people than ever have become interested in strengthening their immune systems—and for good reason. While no protocol can guarantee prevention of illness, we can support the biological systems that allow your immune system to function more effectively.

At Functional Health Unlimited in Woodbury, Minnesota, my approach focuses on strengthening the foundations of immune resilience through nutrition, targeted supplementation, and lifestyle strategies.

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Foundational Dietary Strategies for Immune Health

Most people already know the basics—but consistency is key.

Strong immune systems are supported by:

• Eating a whole-foods diet rich in fruits and vegetables
• Limiting sugar and highly processed foods
• Staying properly hydrated
• Prioritizing protein and healthy fats

Nutrition forms the foundation upon which all other immune-supportive strategies are built.

Harvard overview on diet and immune function:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/how-to-boost-your-immune-system

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Mucosal Membranes: Your First Line of Defense

Your immune system’s first point of contact with the outside world occurs through your mucosal membranes, including:

• Nose and sinuses
• Mouth and throat
• Respiratory tract
• Digestive tract

If these tissues are inflamed or weakened, your vulnerability increases.

Nutrients that help support mucosal integrity include:

• Glutamine
• Licorice root (DGL form)
• Avoiding personal food sensitivities (commonly gluten, dairy, soy, corn)

Your lungs are also part of this mucosal system. When inflammation increases, the barrier becomes weaker.

Two powerful antioxidants shown to support lung tissue and reduce oxidative stress include:

• N-acetyl cysteine (NAC)
• Glutathione

NIH overview on glutathione:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4684116/

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Viral Replication and Nutrient Support

Viruses replicate by entering cells and using cellular machinery to multiply. Certain nutrients have been shown to support the body’s natural antiviral defenses.

Key nutrients involved include:

• Zinc – supports antiviral activity and immune signaling
• Vitamin C – supports immune cell function
• Vitamin A – supports epithelial and immune integrity
• Selenium – antioxidant activity that supports immune regulation

NIH overview on zinc and immunity:
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Zinc-Consumer/

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Natural Killer Cells and Vitamin D

Natural Killer (NK) cells are part of your immune system’s rapid-response team. One of the most important nutrients influencing NK cell activity is Vitamin D.

Unfortunately, Vitamin D deficiency is extremely common in Minnesota, especially in winter.

NIH Vitamin D and immunity:
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminD-Consumer/

Testing your vitamin D level is the best way to determine proper dosing.

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Inflammation and Immune Balance

An over-inflamed system does not function optimally. Chronic inflammation can weaken immune responsiveness over time.

Two of the most researched natural anti-inflammatory compounds include:

• Turmeric (curcumin)
• Resveratrol

Cleveland Clinic overview on turmeric:
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/turmeric-benefits/

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Stress and Immune Suppression

Chronic stress increases cortisol, disrupts sleep, and suppresses immune function. Supporting the nervous system is just as important as supporting the immune system.

Helpful strategies include:

• Meditation
• Gentle movement
• Deep breathing
• Time outdoors
• Meaningful social connection

Certain adaptogenic herbs (used appropriately) may help regulate the stress response.

American Psychological Association on stress and immunity:
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2017/09/stress-immunity

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A Functional Medicine Immune Strategy Focuses On:

• Supporting mucosal barriers
• Providing key nutrients for immune signaling
• Reducing oxidative stress
• Supporting inflammatory balance
• Optimizing sleep and stress response

At Functional Health Unlimited, we take a personalized approach—because no two immune systems are identical.

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Functional Medicine Support in Woodbury, MN

My goal is not only to support patients during times of concern, but to help them build long-term resilience and wellness throughout the year.

Through:

• Targeted lab testing
• Personalized nutrition
• Lifestyle coaching
• High-quality supplementation

…I help patients across Woodbury, Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding Minnesota communities strengthen their health foundations.

👉 Learn more about our functional medicine approach:
https://www.functionalhealthunlimited.com

👉 Schedule a complimentary consultation (telehealth available):

Request Appointment

Your immune system is part of your overall health ecosystem—and with the right support, it can function at a much higher level.

Be well.

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Dr. Lori Jokinen, DC, CACCP, CFMP, BA
Functional Medicine & Chiropractic Care
Functional Health Unlimited – Woodbury, Minnesota