Immune Insufficiency
What Does It Mean?
- Immune insufficiency refers to a weakened or underactive immune system, which may lead to frequent infections, slow recovery times, and increased susceptibility to illness.
- This condition can result from chronic stress, malnutrition, gut dysbiosis, or underlying metabolic imbalances.
- Functional medicine focuses on identifying and addressing root causes such as nutrient deficiencies, impaired gut health, and chronic inflammation.
How Did We Get Here?
Root Causes & Contributing Factors:
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Low levels of vitamin C, zinc, and essential fatty acids impair immune response.
- Chronic Stress & Adrenal Dysfunction: Prolonged stress weakens immune resilience and disrupts immune signaling.
- Gut Microbiome Imbalance: Dysbiosis reduces immune modulation and increases systemic inflammation.
- Toxic Exposure: Heavy metals, mold, and environmental toxins may suppress immune function.
- Poor Sleep & Lifestyle Factors: Sleep deprivation and a sedentary lifestyle reduce immune efficiency.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Frequent colds, flu, and other infections.
- Slow wound healing and prolonged illness recovery.
- Fatigue, brain fog, and low energy.
- Chronic inflammation and allergic reactions.
- Gastrointestinal distress related to gut microbiome imbalances.
Lab Test Findings
The following lab tests help evaluate immune insufficiency and its underlying causes:
| Lab Test Name | Expected Changes | Optimal Range |
| Alkaline Phosphatase | Normal or Decreased | 45.00-100.00 U/L |
| Albumin | Decreased | 4.50-5.00 g/dL |
| Antinuclear Antibody (ANA) Screen | Altered | Negative |
| Basophil Abs | Normal or Decreased | 0.00-0.07 Cells/µL |
| DHEA Sulfate | Decreased | 150.00-250.00 µg/dL |
| IgE, Serum | Increased | 90.00-220.00 IU/mL |
| IgG, Serum | Decreased | 800.00-1500.00 mg/dL |
| WBC | Decreased | 5.5-7.5 Cells/µL |
| Globulin | Decreased | 2.40-2.80 g/dL |
How Do We Treat It?
Treatment focuses on enhancing immune resilience, supporting gut health, and addressing nutritional deficiencies.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Advanced Vita-Biotic R | Supports immune modulation and gut health | 1 capsule with food, daily |
| Endura | Aids in electrolyte balance and hydration | 1 packet with or without food, three times daily |
| D-Mannose Powder | Supports urinary tract and immune function | 1 tsp of powder with food, twice daily |
| CoQ-10 300 mg | Provides antioxidant support for cellular health | 2 capsules with food, daily |
| N-Acetyl Cysteine | Supports detoxification and antioxidant activity | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita DIM | Supports estrogen metabolism and immune balance | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Zinc | Essential for immune cell function | 1 capsule with food, daily |
| Vita-Digestyzyme | Enhances digestion and nutrient absorption | 2 capsule 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
| Vita-Glutathione | Antioxidant that supports detoxification and immunity | 1 capsule with or without food, daily |
| Vita-Candid | Helps regulate gut microbiome balance | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
| Vita B Methyl | Supports energy production and immune function | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| V-Pax | Aids in inflammation reduction and immune balance | 2 capsules with or without food, twice daily |
| V-Inflamma | Reduces chronic inflammation | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita Defense | Immune system support | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Magnesium | Supports immune and nervous system function | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| V-Collagen | Promotes tissue repair and immune integrity | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
| SBI Powder | Enhances gut barrier integrity and immune modulation | 1 scoop of powder in cold liquids without food, daily |
| Gluta Protect | Supports liver detoxification and immune function | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
| Vita Microbe | Probiotic blend for gut and immune health | 3 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Vita Buffered C Powder | Provides immune-boosting vitamin C | ¼ scoop of powder with food, twice daily |
| Vita-Biotic | Comprehensive immune support formula | 4 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita-Flux | Supports nitric oxide production and vascular health | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Increase Immune-Supportive Nutrients: Prioritize vitamin C, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Enhance Gut Health: Consume fermented foods, fiber, and prebiotics to maintain microbial balance.
- Optimize Sleep & Stress Management: Practice good sleep hygiene and mindfulness techniques.
- Minimize Toxin Exposure: Reduce exposure to pesticides, heavy metals, and environmental pollutants.