Why strengthen your immune system? The significance of the immune system is underlined by the example of people who have been born with troubles with their immune system (this can mean that it doesn't work at all, or that only parts of it work) a circumstance called 'immunodeficiency'. Such individuals can become infected extremely easily, and the results can be fatal this can mean living in a sterile surrounding, with only partial contact with people.
Thankfully, many individuals can be helped with a bone marrow transplant that allows them to develop a working immune system (the bone marrow is the source for all of our immune cells) however, this still depends on finding a suitable donor. There are other approaches being perfected however, such as replacing 'faulty' genes with working ones to correct the problem.
The immune system is composed of many equally dependent cell types that cooperatively protect the body from bacterial, fungal, parasitic, viral infections and from the growth of tumor cells. Many of these cell types have focused functions. The cells of the immune system can engulf bacteria, kill parasites or tumor cells, or kill viral-infected cells. Often, these cells depend on the T helper subset for activation signals in the form of secretions formally known as cytokines, lymphokines, or more specifically interleukins. Such an accepting may help comprehend the root of immune deficiencies, and perceive potential avenues that the immune system can be modulated in the case of specific diseases.
Stress can also affect the immune function, one example being marathon runners and frequency of respiratory tract infections where there seems a 'window of opportunity' for infections directly after a run, where the immune system is covered up. Depressed individuals have also experience suppressed immunity, as the nervous system can directly interact with immune cells. So-called 'Neuroimmunology' is a new and emerging field of study. Exercise (provided not excessive) is a simple way to beat stress and improve mood.
As the immune system needs a lot of the body's resources to function, any decline in essential nutrients is likely to have an effect. When nutrients are scarce, the body tends to flavor the brain and certain other organs, and this can also affect the immune system. However, this tends to be in cases of severe malnutrition. It is always best to eat a balanced, and healthy, diet.
Most nutrients with antioxidant capacity (ex .Vitamin C, E, selenium, beta-carotene and other carotenoids) are associated with enhancing immune function, particularly in the elderly. In terms of dietary advice, however, care should be taken not to exceed upper levels of normal dietary intakes, as this may in fact have a detrimental effect. For example, citrus fruits are a good natural foundation of Vitamin C.
If you feel that you need to strengthen your immune system try Bee Propolis by Forever living. Forever Bee Propolis is gathered from pollution free regions. Its an excellent natural food form, loaded with nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids, and a rich supply of other elements in trace amounts.
Steven Johnson is interested in maintaining a vital, active, and healthy lifestyle. For more information and products for immune boosting and other life-enhancing nutrients please visit his website Alternative Health Supplements.
|
