Good health starts with a healthy immune system, but how
much do you really know about your immune system?
Let’s start with the basics, what is your immune system
and what does it do?
Your immune system is your body's defence against infection
and illness. It recognises the cells that make up your body, and will try to
get rid of anything unfamiliar. It destroys germs (bacteria and viruses) and
parasites. These biological
structures protect against disease, help co-ordinate wound healing process,
cellular/tissue turnover, repair, and (re)building.
How does your immune system work?
There are two different types of immunity – innate and
adaptive (see diagram). Your immune system uses a huge army of “defender cells”
which are different types of immune cells.
The cells are made in your bone borrow and you make about
1000 million of them every day. Some of these cells, called macrophages,
constantly patrol your body, destroying germs as soon as they enter. This is
your innate immunity.
If an infection begins to take hold, your body fights back
with an even more powerful defense of T and B-cells which give you acquired
immunity, so that the same germ can never make you as ill again. This is your
adaptive immunity.
So why is your immune system important?
It should be fairly obvious by now that a healthy immune
system leads to good health. Your immune system helps you to:
• Provide
defense against infection & illness
• Distinguish
between own healthy cells and invading pathogens or agents
• Heal
wounds
• Support
an active lifestyle
• Build
up resilience to stressful environments
• Support
overall health and wellbeing
How do you take care of your immune system?
Common-sense practices such as getting enough sleep, eating
healthy foods, exercising, and reducing stress all appear to play some role in
immune system function. Supplements are also an option, but if have medical
conditions and are on medications, you should consult your doctor before
consuming.
References:
www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/.../yourbody/whatdoesyourimmunesystemdo
http://www.breastcancer.org/tips/immune/boost
Labels: adaptive immunity, cells, immune boost, immune system, immunity, innate immunity, usana, usana Australia
