by Ranel A. Larsen, PharmD, PCCA Clinical Compounding Pharmacist

In today's world, where the threat of diseases and infections looms large, it comes as no surprise that people are increasingly interested in boosting their immune system and strengthening their natural defense mechanisms. The immune system, a complex network of cells, tissues and organs, plays a pivotal role in protecting the body against harmful pathogens and maintaining overall health. Its importance cannot be overstated, as a robust immune system not only helps ward off infections but also promotes faster recovery while supporting long-term well-being. As individuals strive to lead healthier lives and safeguard themselves from illnesses, the quest for enhancing immunity has become a priority, driven by a deep understanding of the crucial role the immune system plays in maintaining vitality and resilience.

One of the key aspects of immunity that has garnered significant attention is its intricate connection with inflammation. Inflammation, typically a natural response to injury or infection, is a crucial component of the immune system's defense mechanism. It involves the release of various immune cells, chemicals and hormones to combat harmful agents and initiate the healing process. However, when inflammation becomes chronic or dysregulated, it can have detrimental effects on the body. Chronic inflammation has been linked to a range of health issues, including autoimmune disorders, cardiovascular diseases and even certain types of cancer. Therefore, individuals are motivated to improve their immune function not only to enhance protection against pathogens but also to maintain a balanced inflammatory response, fostering a state of optimal health and well-being.

Dietary modifications have emerged as a powerful tool in managing inflammation and promoting a healthy immune system. Certain foods possess anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce excessive inflammation in the body. Incorporating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins provides essential nutrients, antioxidants and phytochemicals that support immune function and help combat inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish, flaxseeds and chia seeds have been shown to possess potent anti-inflammatory effects. Similarly, spices like turmeric, ginger and garlic contain compounds that can help reduce inflammation. On the other hand, processed foods, sugary beverages and excessive consumption of saturated fats and trans fats can promote inflammation and weaken the immune system.

In addition to dietary modifications, there are some key supplements that have shown promise in decreasing inflammation and supporting the immune system. One of these is palmitoylethanolamide (PEA). PEA is an endocannabinoid receptor agonist that is found in all tissues, including the brain. It is naturally produced as a direct response to inflammatory markers, promoting healthy function of the body’s endocannabinoid system and maintaining cellular homeostasis. PEA is produced “on demand” in response to actual or potential damage for protective purposes. However, with age or chronic inflammation, endogenous production of PEA is generally insufficient to meet the required needs. Supplementing with PEA may help patients decrease inflammation and enhance their immune system. Interestingly, the use of PEA dates back to the 1960s, when it was first marketed for prophylactic treatment of influenza and the common cold.

Pro-resolving lipid mediators (PRMs) are another key supplement that can help support the immune system. PRMs encourage the production of specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) in the body. SPMs are unique molecules that promote a healthy response to physical stress and play extensive roles in host defense, tissue remodeling and organ support. Recent studies suggest that in disease, SPM production becomes dysregulated, which may hinder the body’s ability to effectively resolve an immune response that can impact overall wellness. SPMs have been shown to signal the immune system to stop actively responding to pro-inflammatory signals and accelerate the return to homeostasis. They have even been shown to facilitate the resolution of prolonged or chronic inflammation. Supplementing with PRMs and the subsequent increase in SPMs can result in an improved resilience in recovery from injury, inflammation and/or disease.

Wellness Works’ Factor Series features PEAk Factor (WW #10422) and Resilience Factor (WW #10415). PEAk Factor contains 300 mg of bioavailable PEA (Levagen®+) and 150 mg alpha lipoic acid (ALA) per capsule. Levagen®+, powered by LipiSperse®, helps to increase absorption by reducing surface tension. It effectively eliminates the usual size absorption problems with standard PEA particles. A pharmacokinetics study revealed that Levagen®+ had 1.8 times more bioavailability compared to standard PEA. Resilience Factor is formulated with 400 mcg of PRMs derived from fractionated marine lipids that are both molecularly distilled and put through a supercritical extraction process for purity. Both PEAk Factor and Resilience Factor can help restore immune balance and resolution of immune responses, which are critical for optimal health.

References

1. Petrosino S., Schiano Moriello A. (2020) Palmitoylethanolamide: A Nutritional Approach to Keep Neuroinflammation within Physiological Boundaries-A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci. 15;21(24):9526. Accessed May 2023 at https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33333772/

2. Rankin L., Fowler C.J. (2020) The Basal Pharmacology of Palmitoylethanolamide. Int J Mol Sci. 26;21(21):7942. Accessed May 2023 at https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33114698/

3. Clayton P., Hill M., Bogoda N., et al. (2021) Palmitoylethanolamide: A Natural Compound for Health Management. Int J Mol Sci. 18;22(10):5305. Accessed May 2023 at https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34069940/

4. Petrosino S., and Di Marzo V. (2017) The pharmacology of palmitoylethanolamide and first data on the therapeutic efficacy of some of its new formulations. British Journal of Pharmacology, 174: 1349– 1365. Accessed May 2023 at https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27539936/

5. Norling L.V., Ly L., Dalli J. (2017) Resolving inflammation by using nutrition therapy: roles for specialized proresolving mediators. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 20(2):145-152. Accessed May 2023 at https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28002074/

6. Silverman, R. (2017) Specialized pro-resolving mediators: A new tool for resolving inflammation. Integrative Practitioner. Accessed May 2023 at https://www.integrativepractitioner.com/about/integrative-healthcare-symposium/specialized-pro-resolving-mediators-new-tool-resolving-inflammation

The complete version of this article originally appeared in PCCA’s members-only magazine, the Apothagram.