Many different people can suffer from a compromised immune system. Although we typically think of those who suffer from HIV/AIDS and congenital diseases that affect the immune system first, anyone can run the risk of an improperly functioning immune system. AIDS and other diseases of the immune system very often lead to numerous serious infections. Those whose immune system is compromised for other reasons may only experience numerous colds and viruses.

Vitamin deficiencies, lack of proper rest, cigarette smoking and chronic stress can all lead to a compromised immune system. Proper nutrition is of utmost importance for anyone who wants a well-functioning immune system and for overall good health. Immune system aids or enhancers often include vitamin and mineral supplements, particularly those that may be lacking from the average diet. The vitamins A and C are particularly important, but need to be taken with the right combination of other vitamins and minerals to work effectively. Taking a good daily multi-vitamin is the easiest way to insure proper nutrition.

If one does not get adequate amounts of sleep, then the immune system cannot repair cells that were damaged during the day. When you are busy working or playing, the immune system is busy providing protection from injury. When you are resting the immune system can go about the business of destroying viruses and other sources of infection.

If you have numerous colds or other infections and you smoke, then you have another good reason to quit. Cigarette smoking leeches vitamin C from the body and impairs the body's ability to absorb other important vitamins and minerals. Those who have been diagnosed with a compromised immune system, AIDS or a similar condition should make every effort to quit smoking.

Those who are under chronic stress have been shown to have lower than normal white blood cell counts. It is not always possible to reduce the amount of stress in our lives. For those who cannot, vitamin supplementation and an immune system aids, like the herb Andrographis Paniculata (AP) can be particularly helpful. Although some herbalists still recommend Echinacea, it has been shown to have toxic effects on the liver when used for extended periods of time. Animal studies have shown that AP, even in large amounts is non-toxic.

Many diseases are believed to be linked to dysfunction of the immune system. Rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, allergic rhinitis and other allergies, as well as numerous other diseases are all theoretically caused by improper immune system responses. It appears that the immune system attacks healthy cells and in the case of allergies, substances that would not cause infection, leading to inflammation. Because of this belief, prescribed medications for these and other diseases can lead to a compromised immune system. Corticosteroids and other anti-inflammatories can reduce white blood cell counts.

Immune system aids or enhancers, such as AP, have been shown in laboratory tests to increase white blood cell counts, reduce risks of infection and reduce the number of complications associated with common viruses, such as influenza. Beta glucans, a biologically active plant component, has been shown to stimulate the immune system, protect against colds, flu and infections, as well as AIDS by inhibiting viral replication.