How EFT can Boost Immune Function (and why you should care about sIgA)
Let’s face it—stress affects everything, especially our immune system. And with cold and flu season here, it’s important to give our bodies the best support possible.
One surprising way we can do this is through Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT). Not only is EFT an incredible tool for managing stress, but research has shown that it can also boost key immune markers—specifically secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA)—by up to 113%! So if you’ve been feeling run down or like your body just isn’t keeping up, let’s dive into why that matters and how EFT might be exactly what you need.
What is sIgA and why should you care?
I recently had the opportunity to learn about the GI Map which included the opportunity to run one on myself. As an aside, the GI MAP is a comprehensive stool test that analyzes the health of your gut by assessing microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It helps identify the root causes of gastrointestinal and systemic health issues, including pathogens, beneficial bacteria, inflammation, and immune function. The results guide personalized treatment for conditions like IBS, bloating, food sensitivities, chronic fatigue, and autoimmune issues, making it a valuable tool in functional medicine for improving digestive and overall health.
I was feeling physically good honestly outside the emotional and mental stress I had been experiencing in the 8 or so months leading up to this test. The results surprised me—I had low sIgA levels. While I was feeling okay overall, this finding was a bit of a red flag because sIgA is crucial for immune health.
So, what exactly is sIgA? Think of it as your body’s front-line defense system. It’s an antibody found in your gut, respiratory system, and other mucous membranes that helps protect you from viruses, bacteria, and toxins. When your sIgA levels are optimal, your immune system can fight off infections more effectively, keeping you healthy.
But when sIgA levels are low, your immune defenses weaken, making it harder for your body to fend off illness. And here’s the kicker—chronic stress is a big reason why sIgA levels can drop.
How Stress Lowers sIgA (and What You Can Do About It)
We all know that stress can take a toll on our health, but did you know that it directly impacts your immune system? When we’re stressed, our body pumps out cortisol (the “stress hormone”), which can suppress sIgA levels over time. This leaves us more vulnerable to infections, digestive issues, and inflammation.
Here’s where EFT comes in. Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) is a simple but powerful tool that combines tapping on acupressure points with focused thought. It helps calm the nervous system and reduce cortisol levels, which in turn allows your body to produce more sIgA.
And the results? Pretty amazing. A study by Church et al. (2012) found that after just one hour of EFT, participants experienced a 113% increase in sIgA levels. That’s a massive boost to your immune function in just one session!
How EFT Can Help When You Feel Stuck
I’ve worked with many clients who feel stuck in their health journey—whether they’re dealing with stress, burnout, or emotional blocks that seem impossible to shake. EFT has been a game-changer for them, helping to clear not only mental roadblocks but also the physical effects of stress, like low sIgA.
If you’ve tried other therapies or approaches but still feel like something’s missing, EFT could be the missing piece. By calming the nervous system and reducing stress, you give your immune system the chance to recover and strengthen.
Other Ways to Boost sIgA Naturally
In addition to EFT, here are a few other ways you can support your sIgA levels and overall immune health:
Eat Gut-Friendly Foods: Fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut can help balance your gut flora, which plays a key role in immune function.
Prioritize Sleep: Lack of sleep is a big contributor to low sIgA. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality rest each night.
Move Your Body: Gentle movement like yoga or walking helps reduce stress and supports immune health.
Take Probiotics: A good probiotic can help keep your gut bacteria healthy and support your immune system.
Let’s Work Together to Boost Your Immune Function
If you’re feeling stressed, run down, or just want to give your immune system a boost, now is a great time to try EFT. Not only does it help you feel more balanced emotionally, but it can also give your immune system the support it needs to keep you healthy. Use the link below to book a discovery session so I can help answer your questions about getting started with EFT.
