Immune System
Over the past two years there has been so much talk about immunity to SARSCoV- 2 that it might be easy to forget all the other things the immune system does. Second in complexity only to the brain, the immune system comprises the innate system (immunity we are born with) and the adaptive system (the ability to develop as we are exposed to microbes through life). The cells of both parts are made in:
- Bone marrow
- Adenoids
- Spleen
- Lymph nodes
- Lymphatic vessels
- Lymphoid tissue
- Thymus
- Tonsils
Not only is the immune system responsible for fighting viruses, but also bacteria, fungi, toxins, and even cancer cells. Modern medicines like antibiotics and vaccines wouldn’t work without it, so it’s very important to keep it healthy!
Give it a boost
Because the immune system is multi-pronged keeping it healthy also requires a multi-pronged approach, so:
- Get adequate and good quality sleep – meditation, lowering alcohol consumption, and natural sleep remedies
- Eat a healthy diet – try to incorporate nuts, fruit, and food containing antioxidants into your diet
- Engage in moderate exercise – light cardiovascular exercise including walking, cycling and swimming, can help immune system cells regenerate regularly
- Stay hydrated – drink enough fluids to ensure your urine is light yellow. Some hydration drinks may also help
- Reduce stress – this is perhaps easier said than done, but long-term stress can cause an imbalance in immune cell function
- Take supplements – current research indicates that the best supplements for strengthening our immunity are Vitamin C and D, and Zinc