IMMUNITY: A DEFENSE MECHANISM

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IMMUNITY : A DEFENSE MECHANISM

INTRODUCTION

The immune system is your body’s natural defense system. It’s an intricate network of cells, tissues, and organs that band together to defend your body against invaders. Those invaders can include bacteria, viruses, parasites, even a fungus, all with the potential to make us sick. They are everywhere – in our homes, offices, and backyards

A healthy immune system protects us by first creating a barrier that stops those invaders, or antigens, from entering the body. And if one slips by the barrier, the immune system produces white blood cells, and other chemicals and proteins that attack and destroy these foreign substances. They try to find the antigen and get rid of it before it can reproduce. Failing that, the immune system revs up even more to destroy the invaders as they multiply.

The immune system can recognize millions of different antigens. And it can produce what it needs to eradicate nearly all of them. When it’s working properly, this elaborate defense system can keep health problems ranging from cancer to the common cold

the immune system does an incredible job of protecting us against disease, but sometimes it fails, and we get sick. The idea of boosting your immune health is a very important one as it prepares the body towards incoming diseases or exposure. It aids in the proper management done solely by the body when finally exposed to these infections

Do you know you can have certain infections and recover fully without the use of any drugs? That is the handiwork of the IMMUNE SYSTEM

WAYS OF BOOSTING THE IMMUNE SYSTEM

There’s no single pill or supplement you can take to boost your immune system. Instead, adopting these healthy living habits can help improve your immunity for a lifetime.

mineral supplements are not necessarily for immunity but they build up the whole body which in turn builds up immunity. Vitamins and supplements may interact with one another in your system and with other medications you Take and so its advisable Notify your doctor or pharmacist about all the drugs and supplements you are taking.

Go for a walk: Sitting around not only can leave you feeling sluggish, it also can make your immune system sluggish. Exercise, on the other hand, helps boost immunity.

Eat a healthy diet: Proper nutrition is essential for your immune system to work well.

Food rich in protein is generally required for the synthesis of these blood cells.

Also food rich in vitamin C is highly recommended as vitamin C helps in strengthen the body immune system. It also acts as an antioxidant which mops up free radicals that can damage the immune system

Other practices include :

🔘 Don't smoke as this weakens the immune system

🔘 Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables

🔘 Exercise regularly

🔘 Maintain a healthy weight

🔘 If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation.

🔘 Get adequate sleep/rest.

🔘 Take steps to avoid infection; such as washing your hands frequently (especially now) and cooking meats thoroughly.

🔘 Try to minimize stress.

By Noma-Idahosa Rhema, Igwe Vincent Uche and Onuwabhagbe Joel