Your body is constantly exposed to bacteria, viruses, fungi and other substances that could potentially make you sick.
Fortunately, you have a sophisticated defence system working around the clock to identify threats and protect you. This system is known as the immune system.
Mayo Clinic explains that although most people only think about immunity when they become ill, your immune system is active every day. Understanding how it works and the factors that support healthy immune function can be an important part of maintaining overall health.
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What is the immune system?
The National Institutes of Health describe the immune system as a complex network of cells, tissues, organs and proteins that work together to defend the body against harmful organisms and other threats. It includes the skin and mucous membranes, white blood cells, bone marrow, lymph nodes, spleen, thymus and other components.
You need to think of your system as a security system that operates throughout your body. It continually monitors potential threats, identifies harmful substances and coordinates an appropriate response.
But the immune system is not simply an ‘off’ or ‘on’ switch. It has to maintain balance. An inadequate response can leave the body vulnerable to infection, while an inappropriate or excessive immune response can contribute to allergies, autoimmune diseases and other problems.
But how does it work?
The immune system has two closely connected parts: innate immunity and adaptive immunity.
Innate immunity provides an immediate, general defence. Your skin, mucus, stomach acid and certain immune cells form some of the body’s early protective barriers. These defences can respond quickly when harmful organisms attempt to enter or spread through the body.
Adaptive immunity is more specialised. B cells can produce antibodies that recognise particular threats, while T cells perform several important roles in identifying and responding to infected or abnormal cells.
The adaptive immune system can also develop memory, allowing it to respond more efficiently when it encounters a familiar threat again.
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Your immune system needs attention because…
The system does not exist separately from the rest of your body. Its effectiveness is influenced by many aspects of health and lifestyle, such as:
- Proper sleep and immunity
- A more nutritious diet
- Ample physical activity
- Vaccination and immune protection
This is why looking after your immune system should not be reduced to taking a particular supplement or searching for a quick immune booster. Healthy immunity is connected to overall health.
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Featured image: Pexels
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