People often say that health is wealth, this is not just a saying but an important message that we should heed. Humans are born with the inclination to make thoughtful decisions about things that matter the most. What is more important than human health in this regard? The human body consists of many systems, each of which performs a specific function to keep the body healthy. The immune system is one of the most crucial body systems. Just like a guard who protects your property, the immune system shields your body against foreign invaders including bacteria, insects, fungi, toxins, viruses, etc.
Types of the immune system
There are mainly two types of the immune system:
- Innate immune system (the first-line defense)
- Adaptive immune system (learn to identify enemies)
Functions of the immune system
The role of the immune system is as important as the heartbeat, as it impedes the invasion of any alien bodies into human systems. A brief list of roles that the immune system performs in the body is as follows:
- Strategic decisions
- Communication
- Identify and memorize its enemies
- Kill enemies
- Cause inflammation
- Fighting worms
- Produce antibodies etc.
Factors that depress the immune system
There are a few factors that slow down the normal functioning of the immune system. Some of them are listed below:
- Excess weight
- Environmental toxins (smog, smoke, excessive alcohol)
- Poor Diet
- Older age
- Chronic disease
- Lack of rest and sleep.
In such cases boosting the immune system is of critical significance to keep it healthy throughout the year. The best trick is to improve your diet and take sufficient rest. Another crucial factor that strengthens your immunity is top taking immunity vitamins.
Immunity Vitamins
Vitamin deficiencies can pose a serious health risk. It is therefore important to take those vitamins in diet or in pills. Some of them are discussed below:
Vitamin A
A fat-soluble vitamin, vitamin A is essential to our health. It functions for both our adaptive and innate immune systems. It plays a major role in the production of B-cells and T-helper cells. Vitamin A deficiency reduces antibody production and thus directly affects antibody-mediated response.
Source of Vitamin A
- Fish
- Dairy products
- Meat
- Carrots
- Dark green leafy vegetables
- Tuna
- Sweet potatoes
- Pumpkin
- Cantaloupe
- Butternut Squash
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is also a fat-soluble vitamin. It plays its role in immunity by boosting the infection-fighting potential of macrophages and monocytes. A lack of Vit. D causes respiratory infections, including asthma, flu, cough, etc.
Source of Vitamin D
- Salmon
- Sardines
- Tuna
- Mackerel
- Milk
- Orange juice
- Cereals
Getting your vitamins through your diet is a good decision but vit. D can be an exception to that. Better consult with your doctor about supplements.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a well-known immune booster. It performs its function by killing older cells which are replaced by new healthier ones and thus vitamin C makes sure the health of the immune system. Vitamin C is also a strong antioxidant. Consuming more than 2000 mg of vitamin C can lead to diseases.
Sources of Vitamin C
- Kale
- Spinach
- Bell pepper
- Papaya
- Strawberries
Vitamin E
Vitamin E plays its role in the health of the brain, skin, blood, reproduction, vision, etc. Deficiency of vitamin E causes muscle weakness, poor nerve impulse transmission, and can lead to complete blindness and some other serious health issues.
Source of Vitamin E
- Oil
- Vegetables
- Meat
- Eggs
- Sunflower seeds
- Almonds
- Peanuts
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin. It plays a key role in the production of red blood cells and supports immune system health through fighting infection risks and modulating immune function.
Source of vitamin B12
- Meat
- Shellfish
- Fish
- Dairy products
- Fortified cereals etc.
Wrap up:
There is no denial about the role of a balanced diet's significance in maintaining a truly healthy immune system. But based on the seasons and place where you live you don’t always have access to fresh food. For this matter vitamins and minerals serve as faster and stronger immunity providers.