To understand how your immune system works, you should first know what it is and how it functions. Boosting your immune system is vital in fighting off disease and preventing infections. However, many people don't realize that it is a powerful defense against germs. This article will learn about the different parts of the immune system and the best ways to boost it.
Without immune system, we would be dead - Photo: Houston Methodist
What is Immune System?
You may have heard of the immune system. However, did you know that it has an intricate system of cells, organs, and tissues that recognize and reject foreign substances? These cells are called lymphocytes, and they have two main functions: protecting you from disease and leaving of foreign substances. These cells originate in the bone marrow and thymus glands and mature into T lymphocytes in the thymus gland. They function as the body's military intelligence system, identifying and destroying invaders. In addition to these two functions, the immune system recognizes and eliminates foreign substances.
Our bodies are constantly attacked by viruses, bacteria, spores, and allergens. As a result, our immune system continuously defends us from these harmful invaders. It is a mighty army of cells that continually puts itself in harm's way for our survival. Without it, we would be dead. The immune system is complex, beautiful, and awesome. Here's a look at its workings.
Parts of the immune system
The body's immune system contains several organs and tissues. The spleen, lymphatic system, and bone marrow are the main components of this system. These organs and tissues produce white blood cells, antibodies, and other immune cells. The spleen and lymphatic system trap antigens and germs, while the appendix helps immune system cells grow and mature. When bacteria, viruses, and fungi invade the body, these organs and tissues produce a robust immune response.
There are two types of white blood cells, neutrophils, and macrophages. Neutrophils are the most common type of white blood cell. They fight bacteria and other harmful organisms, converting them into harmless substances. Macrophages are white blood cells derived from monocytes. These white blood cells are present in tissues and are responsible for attacking cancer. The dendritic cell acts as the brain of the immune system. It receives signals from other immune cells, recognizes abnormal cells, and presents them to the immune system's outer layer.
How does it work?
When we encounter germs, our immune system mounts a response. This includes two types of response: immediate innate response and slower adaptive response. HMX faculty member Andrew Lichtman explains each type in detail. The first type, the natural response, attacks pathogens directly and rapidly. Adaptive responses take time to develop and are triggered only after a specific substance has caused damage or illness.
A microbe, toxin, or other foreign substance triggers an immune response to activate the immune system. Antigens are molecules found on bacteria or fungi surfaces, which attach to special receptors on immune cells. These molecules start a series of processes in the body. This system recognizes the antigen, produces antibodies, and then sends signals to other body parts to attack it. Eventually, the body develops immunity against specific diseases.
How to boost your immune system
Boosting your immune system can be tricky because your body is complicated. You need a robust system to fight germs and infections, but you also don't want it to overreact, leading to an autoimmune disorder. Many different inputs control it. While it's possible to increase your immune system's strength, it is not advisable to take supplements.
Avoid refined grains and sugary treats, as these substances convert into sugar and suppress your immune system for hours. Try to consume at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day. They're loaded with immune-boosting vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Ideally, one medium-sized fresh fruit and half a cup of cooked or raw vegetables are considered one serving. Also, make sure to drink more water during the day.
