The strength and resilience of the immune system is more important than ever as we continue to navigate the global health situation. Often, only vitamins and herbal products are considered for immune support, when the deepest level of immunity is predicated on metabolic factors and their relationship to these compounds.

Potentially the most important of these factors is the metabolic pathway, AMPK. This ancient pathway is a central regulator of metabolism, growth, and cellular energy production. It is also the driver for autophagy, and the subset of immune-oriented autophagic activity called xenophagy, which is required for proper antibody formation.

While vitamin D and zinc are well known for their immune-promoting activity, it is often missed that many of these actions are AMPK-dependent. Recently, one of the most interesting developments in intracellular zinc bioavailability is the zinc ionophore – a complex of zinc and specific polyphenols that may increase cellular uptake of this essential micronutrient. Studies show quercetin to be a powerful zinc ionophore compound and interestingly also a potent AMPK activator. Thus, working knowledge of AMPK activation, nutraceutical compounds and lifestyle factors needed to maximize AMPK, and their interconnection to immune health is essential education for every clinician.

In this webinar, Dr. Shade will discuss:

• AMPK as a crucial regulator of metabolic health and is also a key stabilizer of the Renin-Angiotensin System
• The role of zinc in immunity, including the surprising fact that many of zinc’s immune-supporting activities are AMPK-dependent
• AMPK activation and resultant autophagy are crucial for pathogen pattern recognition and antibody response
• Discussion of key nutraceutical compounds as zinc ionophores and potent AMPK activators, and how they are maximized when coupled to lifestyle factors