The immune system is your first line of defense. When it becomes compromised you in danger of disease. It pays to make sure it is operating as optimal levels.
The immune system is very complex. It has the primary task of identifying and destroying unwanted agents, such as viruses, pathogenic bacteria, and cancer cells. It is made up of organs, tissues, cells, antibodies and other biochemical components. In order to know if an intervention improves immunity to infection, it is necessary to know if it will have an effect on a part of the immune system. This will then translate into fewer incidents of infection.
The good news is, is that it may be possible to improve a person’s immune system. Many people interested in doing this do not have an immune deficiency. They simply want to avoid catching a cold or other illnesses. Testing of various products that claim to boost a person’s immune system has not yet occurred. This doesn’t mean that they don’t work though.
A person may also want to improve their immune system due to a disease that they have. In the case of an immune deficiency such as Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), the immune deficiency occurs due to an infection caused by Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). A Primary Immune (PI) deficiency is a group of inherited diseases that includes X-linked Agammaglobulinemia, Hyper-IgM Syndrome, and Selective IgA Deficiency. Some types of PI have defects in the function of white blood cells, while others have low levels of antibodies.
There are many factors that can help improve immune function. Researchers have noticed the effects that diet, stress, herbs, and exercise have on the immune system.
Try to maintain a healthy weight by exercising regularly. With a proper diet, exercise can contribute to good health and therefore, a healthy immune system. Be sure not to exercise while sick, as that may have an adverse effect.
Always wash your hands and get enough rest at night. Washing your hands before eating and after using the bathroom, reduces exposure to pathological organisms. If by chance you do not get enough sleep, certain components of an immune system can negatively be affected, such as white cell count.
Take control of your stress level. Researchers have noted a connection between stress and an impaired immune system. Individuals that are depressed have a reduced level of white blood cell activity. Also, survivors of natural disasters have a decreased immune system function.
Lastly, eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Foods that are rich in Vitamin C and E have an “immune enhancing” effect. Carotenoids, Selenium, and Omega-3 Fatty Acids are additional foods to also improve an immune system.
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