At this time everyone has questions, comments and concerns about their health and appreciate the importance of an optimum immune system. To help, a better understanding of the body and the function of the immune system is needed.
The immune system is made up of organs and processes that enable the body to fight infections and toxins; which are rid from the body through the lymphatic system. Organs in the immune and lymphatic system include the thymus, bone marrow, spleen, and lymph nodes.
The immune system uses white blood cells to fight infections. Certain types of white blood cells are called phagocytes which consume invading organisms and infections to the body. Lymphocytes are another type of white blood cell, which is used to remember the bacteria (pathogen) and how to destroy it.
There are two kinds of lymphocytes – B lymphocytes and T lymphocytes. Lymphocytes originate in the bone marrow. The B lymphocytes stay in the marrow and mature into B cells. The T lymphocytes move to the thymus gland from the marrow and mature into T cells. B lymphocytes are used to identify destructive organisms which the T cells will then be used to kill destroy.
B lymphocytes are triggered to make antibodies which latch onto specific bacteria. The antibodies stay in a person’s body and remain there so if the same infection were to reoccur the antibodies would be able to recognise it and act accordingly.
The lymphatic system produces and transports the white blood cells which contain the antibodies that protect the body. Any cancerous, dead and damaged cells are removed from the blood stream by the lymphatic system.
As a result, any immune and lymphatic system weaknesses will lead to numerous diseases some of which could be fatal.
Give your immune system a helping hand
Minerals and vitamins are very important to ensure we care for immune system; for this we can seek natural foods such as fresh fruit and vegetables that contain these much needed nutrients.
Vitamins: A, C, D, and E.
Minerals: Iron, Selenium, Magnesium and Zinc
Good foods
Berries – Elderberries, used to help unclog mucus membranes and it’s antiviral, and anti-carcinogenic properties.
Leafy Greens – Both kale and spinach are full of antioxidants and promote the production of white blood cells. They’re rich in vitamin C, and a great source of folate, vitamin A, fiber, magnesium, and iron. Eaten as close to raw helps keep the nutrients live and most effective.
Green Tea – Used for centuries has been used for antiviral properties. Rich in antioxidants that fight infections. Antioxidant EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate) is a powerful compounds in green tea which helps prevent cell damage and provide other benefits.
Another component of green tea, L-theanine, which aids the production of T lymphocyte white cells, known to improve immune responses to infections.
The Spice – Cayenne pepper is packed with antioxidants including beta carotene, Vitamin A and C, which help to remove free radicals that can cause harm to the body. Used by many to kick start the circulatory system as we suffer from colds and flu throughout the year.
The Mineral Boost – Sea Moss is an algae that contains 92 of the 102 minerals needed by our bodies. It also provides amino acids, vitamin C, antioxidants, as well as antiviral and antimicrobial compounds to fight infections. It is rich in iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and potassium iodide which is used to clear airways from phlegm. Because of it’s consistency it is known to smoothly line the respiratory and gut lining.
Once prepared Sea Moss can be easily added to juices and smoothies.
Exercise
To exercise and train the body is essential for everyday health. Physical activity can help people exercise the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Lungs and airways expel toxins which could if left to linger, increase the chances of colds and flu like symptoms.
The effects of exercise on the immune system would also include the increase of white blood cells circulating, which could aid in the body’s effectiveness to cleans itself of toxins.
Exercise can help control body weight and reduce stress levels by regulating hormones secretion throughout the body. In addition, the sweating caused by exercise will ensure toxins are eliminated by the body through the skin.
Completing 30-45mins exercise most days in the week is recommended. This could include brisk walks, jogs and/or sporting activities.
**This page will be updated regularly with additional information.**