Do you fall sick often? Here’s why!

A robust immune system binds an individual to good health and longevity.

To understand good health, we must discuss what strengthens the body and fights diseases and infections. This can only be possible if a person has a strong immune system. The immune system is the body’s natural defense system that fights against disease-causing pathogens. It is a complex network of cells, proteins, and organs working together to protect the body from various diseases, infections, or ailments. 

Let’s understand what the four major constituents of the immune system are:

• Skin that prevents germs on the surface from entering the body. 
• The mucous membrane, inner linings of some organs, and body cavity. 
• White Blood Cells or WBCs, and
• Organs and tissues of the lymph system include the spleen, lymph nodes, lymph vessels, tonsils, thymus, and bone marrow.

What is the major function of the immune system?

The primary function of the immune system is that it defends the body against Antigens which are harmful or foreign substances that might enter the human body. They may survive in the human body by germs such as bacteria, viruses, chemicals or toxins, and damaged cells.

When the immune system recognizes any antigen of foreign origin, it creates antibodies. These antibodies are proteins that work and attack antigens. If the immune system notices the antigen in the future, it recognizes it and immediately sends out the antibodies, preventing the body from falling sick. This protection against a certain disease is immunity. 

Immunity is divided into two broad categories namely innate and adaptive immunity. 

Innate immunity is the protection that a person is born with and is the body’s first line of defense. This includes skin, mucous membranes, enzymes, chemicals, stomach acid, etc, that attack any foreign substance entering the body whereas the latter is developed when a person is either vaccinated against or infected with a disease. After its first exposure to the foreign substance, the immune system will recognize the foreign substance and defend against it. This is typically enduring. 

Here are the 7 things disrupting your immune system:

1. Allergies: Allergies cause the human body to overreact to a relatively harmless substance like food, mold, pollen, etc. 
2. Autoimmune Diseases: Such diseases are caused by the immune system accidentally attacking the healthy cells in the body. Some examples of these diseases are Hashimoto disease, Type 1 Diabetes, and Rheumatoid Arthritis. 
3. Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases: These are mostly genetic disorders. They may last longer, are severe, and are harder to treat. 
4. Infections: HIV is an example of a disease affecting the immune system which might lead to AIDS. 
5. Sepsis: Sepsis is a widespread inflammation caused by the immune system’s reaction triggered by the infection. 
6. Cancer: Leukemia and myeloma are cancers affecting the working of the immune system. 
7. Medications: Few medicines like Corticosteroids can weaken the immune system. 

How To Enhance Your Immunity?

By using these accessible foods, you may easily incorporate immunity into your daily meals:

1. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects against the damage caused by oxidative stress. Some foods rich in Vitamin C are oranges, grapefruits, bell peppers, strawberries, spinach, and broccoli. 
2. Vitamin D has a mild protective effect against respiratory tract infections. It is present in salmon, mushrooms, fortified milk, cereals, and bread. 
3. Vitamin E is an effective antioxidant that helps the body fight infections. It is rich in foods like nuts, seeds, and spinach. 
4. Vitamin A helps to regulate the immune system and protects against infections by keeping skin and tissues healthy. It is found in sweet potatoes, carrots, apricots, and spinach.
5. Zinc is an antioxidant that boosts metabolism and recovery of wounds. High-zinc food consists of beans, nuts, and seeds. 
6. Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin which boosts the immunity in the body. 
7. Garlic has strong anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that enhance body immunity.

How to Strengthen Your Immune System?

Little steps go a long way! Here are a few small lifestyle changes that may help:

• Quit smoking
• Consume a healthy diet, rich in fruits and vegetables. 
• Avoid a sedentary lifestyle. This improves cardiovascular health, lowers blood pressure, controls body weight, and protects against various diseases. 
• Avoid liquor or drink in moderation. 
• Get 8 hours of sleep.
• Maintain proper hygiene, such as washing hands regularly.
• Avoid stress. 
• Stay hydrated as it helps in flushing out the toxins from the body. 

By incorporating these tiny changes, you can take better care of your body and boost your immune system to function proactively. For any further queries, contact us so we may find the problems early and provide you with the best healthcare solutions.