Why is there always some lucky soul who doesn’t get sick when the virus is spreading like a fume or when chickenpox is sending all the kids home from school,why are there a few who remain untouched? Why do only some in a family develop allergies or eczema? Is it because of their strong genes or they are fortunate?
To some extent, our genes play an important role in our life, but more to it inside our body there is an amazing protection mechanism called the immune system. It is designed to defend us against millions of bacteria, microbes, viruses, toxins, and parasites. Unlike other systems in the body, the immune system is not confined to a particular group of organs or tissues, but works like a huge army, manned by a great rank, all of which function in tandem to protect us against hostile invasions of bacteria, virus and other villains, which threaten our well-being. Whenever such unfriendly outsiders appear, the immune system springs into action, forming a barrier to prevent invasion by recognizing and trapping foreign bodies and then destroying them.
The immune system has a whole battery of first-line defenses to fend off an attack and prevent microorganisms from entering the bloodstream. This consists of a set of barriers which repel external attack including the mucous membranes in the mouth, nose, vagina, small hairs in the nose and ears that sweep foreign organisms out. It also includes tears in the eyes and the acid pH balance and sebum in the skin.
There are two types of immunity. One is cell-meditate immunity and other is antibody-meditate.
An immune system is a defense system of the body. Whenever the body gets a challenge with an external force the immune system acts to fight that force by producing an immune response which is through white blood cells. White blood cells either can destroy the external agencies by producing antibodies or by cell-meditate.
Lifestyle factors play a major role
Antibodies are special proteins designed to help the body neutralize or destroy invading organisms. When a germ enters our body for the very first time, it takes several days for antibodies to manufacture. During this time the signs and symptoms of the infection develop.
The blueprint of the antibodies is then stored in the immune system’s memory so when the same germ threatens the body again, the immune response goes into immediate action and produces the very same antibodies. This time around you may not even be aware that you got threatened by infection because there are few or no signs and symptoms.
Various lifestyle factors can weaken the immune system. Culprits include antibiotics, contraceptive pills, smoking and junk food diet, binging on alcohol, pollution and stress.
With exercise, balanced diet, and controlling the stress level, one can stay healthy.
Keep a check on your diet: Immune System
A balanced diet is similar to a life-saving drug which includes fresh fruits, green vegetables, nuts, sprouts, etc. Fresh foods not only carry a diverse mixture of vitamins and trace minerals absent from most processed foods, they also have vitality.
Sugar is an immune suppressant. Children often complain of a sore throat that develops after gorging on sweets. They have recurrent ear infections or chronic tonsillitis if they consume a lot of candy and sugared beverages.
Other stimulants such as coffee and sodas seem to have a similar result if they are over used. Foods that are loaded with chemicals leave us burdened, rather than energized.
Fruits form an important part of a low fat diet.
A low-fat diet is very important for a strong immune system.
Excess fat hampers the ability of the body to fight off bacteria and free radicals. Lowering fat in the diet can be accomplished by limiting the intake of fatty foods and making low-fat and low-calorie meal substitutions.
Sources of Vitamin C.
Even the antioxidants help in boosting the immune system. Vitamin C aggressively reacts on cancer cells. Good sources of vitamin C are citrus fruits, green peppers, cantaloupes, and broccoli.
Vitamin E helps to slow down the symptoms of aging and strengthen body cells that fight infection.
Sources of Vitamin E.
Check:How natural foods can boost your immune system
Regular exercise is a must
When we exercise moderately, we actually stimulate our immune function. Regular exercise increases the circulation of white blood cells. Exercise also causes our blood vessels to expand so that circulation increases. More white blood cells circulating in more areas of our body means a greater ability to fight and prevent disease.
Adapt relaxation techniques
Stress has become a part of our life because of the tough competition and a fast-paced life.
In fact, we don’t have the time to relax and enjoy the happiness we achieve with our small efforts. Creating a deep sense of relaxation can have a positive effect on the immune system. Adrenalin triggers the sympathetic nervous system that ‘fight-or-flight’ response. A relaxation technique, like daydreaming, involves allowing images to drift through your mind heightening immune response to disease.
Just relax and let images come to you. Also, poor sleep associates with lower immune system function and numbers of killer cells. Avoid sleep robbers such as eating, drinking alcohol, smoking, or exercising right before bedtime.
Have a positive approach: Immune system
Having a positive outlook when under stress can make you and your immune system feel high.
Negative emotions release stress hormones that suppress immune activity, while positive emotions increase immune function and even help people to recover faster from illnesses.
Make friends. Going out with your friends can boost your spirits and your defenses.
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