Protect your immune system today and in the future
A robust and properly functioning immune system protects us from disease caused by bacteria, viruses and toxins. Our immune system is complex and works to help remove foreign bodies and malignant cells from our system. Without a healthy immune system, viruses and bacteria would have free reign and therefore we would constantly be getting sick. There are several components that make up our immune system. These include:
- Skin: The skin is the human body’s largest organ and is the first line of defence in our immune system. The skin is a physical barrier that keeps bacteria and germs at bay.
- Mucus: Mucus covers every part of our body that is exposed to air but unprotected by the skin, including your nose, mouth, lungs, and eyes. Mucus is loaded with proteins that kill and disable germs, like bacteria and viruses.
- Gut: Around 70-80% of our immune system cells are found in your gut. It’s often a place where bacteria and viruses attack so it’s important that your gut is in good condition and has plenty of friendly bacteria at its disposal[1]
- Lymph system: The lymphatic system is the system of vessels, cells and organs that carries excess fluids to the bloodstream and filters pathogens from the blood.
As the temperature starts to drop weather-related health problems start to rise. It is important that we take all the necessary steps to ensure that our immune system is strong and that we can battle the cough and sniffles. There are many ways to support your immune system at this time, check out our 5 tips.
1. Good hygiene: As we go about our everyday lives, germs and bacteria accumulate on our hands. If you have come into contact with a surface, object or person that is contaminated, touching your mouth, nose or eyes can lead to you picking up an infection. It is important that you frequently wash and sanitise your hands to avoid getting sick and spreading illnesses. (Hand Sanitizer, Body Bar, Body Cleansing Gel)
2. Vaccinations: Vaccinations are like a training course for the immune system, helping it recognise and fight specific germs. When you get a vaccination, dead or severely weakened viruses are being put into your body to trick you into thinking you have already had the disease. Our bodies respond to the weakened invaders by creating antibodies to protect us from future infection. Once an antibody has been produced, a copy remains in the body so that if the same virus appears again, it can be dealt with more quickly. This is a safe way of producing an immune response in the body without causing illness.
3. Supplementation: Generally, our immune system performs its functions well, however in some cases it needs some additional support. Factors like stress and a poor diet can weaken your immune system, causing there to be a need for nutritional supplements to help boost the immune system. Essential Vitamins like Vitamin A, B6, B12, C, D, E, Zinc and Selenium are important as they all work to improve the immune system in diverse ways. (LifePak, Targeted Solutions)
4. Exercise: Exercise is important as it boosts our immune system by stimulating a recirculation of cells. It is recommended that you engage in 30-60 minutes a day of moderate intensity aerobic exercise, as this will help your body fight off infections and viruses. [2]
5. Healthy diet: Eating a healthy, nutrient rich diet is a great way to boost your immune system. For a healthy immune system, it is recommended that you eat a variety of foods that contain an abundance of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. Adding dietary supplements and superfruit juices to your winter health program can be the perfect combination to cellular rejuvenation and immune support. (g3 Juice)
As we age our immune system weakens and it is harder for us to fight off infections. It is important that we all take the necessary steps to ensure that we have a strong immune system.
[1] Heid, Markham 2018, TIME, ‘Here’s the best way to boost your immune system’, https://time.com/5482827/how-to-boost-your-immune-system/
[2] Nutrica 2020, ‘Allergy, the immune-gut interplay’, https://www.nutriciaresearch.com/allergy/allergy-the-immune-gut-interplay
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