BROOKINGS, SD--(Marketwire - March 4, 2010) -  Poor diet and lack of sleep can make us feel fatigued and run-down, but what most people don't know is how basic stressors can tax our immune system, making us vulnerable to diseases and conditions we never thought were related.

That's what Dr. Sherrill Sellman, a Naturopathic Doctor, thinks people need to understand in order to safeguard their health.

"We leave our immune systems open to attack every day by doing things we shouldn't," she said. "We eat way too much sugar and refined carbohydrates, we don't get enough sleep, we don't get enough sun and we take antibiotics at the first sniffle. Factors that impair the immune system include nutrient deficiencies, contaminated air, water and food, unhealthful lifestyles and too much exposure to harmful microbes. Sometimes the result is a condition that we don't even realize came about because of our poor habits."

Dr. Sellman knows that all these behaviors could lead to a wide variety of conditions, including:

• The Common Cold -- An overactive immune system is useless against the modern strains of colds, so the best way to avoid it is still keeping your immunities strong.

• Arthritis -- Rheumatory arthritis is an autoimmune disease. Stress on the immune system makes it hyperactive, and it begins to attack the joints.

• Asthma -- The respiratory system is vulnerable to a compromised immune system because infections can reside in the lungs longer when a person's immunities are weakened.

• All Chronic Illness -- A weakened immune system plays a role in all chronic illnesses, including cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. When it is damaged by poor nutrition, lack of sleep and undue stress, it places people in a higher risk group for these conditions.

"A strong immune system is essential for health," she added. "One element I have found helpful with my patients is a colostrum-based ingredient called Immunel, which is found in natural health supplements. Immunel (www.thenaturesgift.com) is a targeted immune product that activates the innate immune system within 3 minutes of consumption. Studies have concluded it is effective in promoting immune system health."

About Dr. Sherrill Sellman

Sherrill Sellman, N.D., Naturopathic Doctor (Board Certified in Integrative Medicine), is the best-selling author of What Women MUST Know to Protect Their Daughters from Breast Cancer.

Contact Information:

Rachel Friedman
Rachel@newsandexperts.com