How to Boost Immune System?

The immune system has a vital role in keeping your body healthy! A well-functioning immune system is a barrier between you and the germs that you are surrounded by every day. It either kills the germs or limits their harm if they do manage to get in.

As long as the immune system is running properly, its presence will go unnoticed. When it does stop working properly, you fall sick! Germs that the immune system has not yet encountered are bound to make you ill. Some germs like chickenpox will have an effect only on the first contact.

Where is the Immune System Located?

Your immune system needs an army to protect you from the germs of the world. It is made up of a larger network of cells and organs. Every soldier comes together to form the army named immune system to fight foreign invaders – bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi). About 70% of the organs and cells of the immune system are located in the gut!

There are two types of Immune Systems:

• Innate Immune System: You are born with this type of immune system. It is the rapid response system that patrols your body and is the first responder to any threat/invader. This is inherited and is active from the moment of birth!
• Acquired Immune System: Joining hands with the innate immune system, the acquired immune system produces antibodies to protect your body from invaders/threats. While it will take days for antibodies to develop, the body is able to identify the threat after the first attack. This immune system keeps changing and evolving according to the stimuli given to it.

The cells for both immune systems are present throughout the body:

• White Blood Cells
• Lymph Nodes
• Spleen
• Tonsils and Adenoids
• Thymus
• Bone Marrow
• Skin, Mucous Membranes
• Stomach and Bowel

What is Immune Response?

The immune response is a common biological reaction of the immune system when attacked. It is the body’s defense mechanism against substances it views as harmful or foreign. This response is helpful in protecting against tissue damage, toxicity, and tumors. During an immune response, the immune system identifies antigens on the surface of microorganisms and attacks and destroys them.

How to Boost Immune System Naturally at Home?

Just like every other part of the body, the immune system also needs proper nourishment, rest and a properly sanitized and hygienic environment to function properly. Lifestyle modifications have shown to have a positive effect on the functioning of the immune system.Wondering how to make immune system strong? Try these immune-boosting foods and drinks at home!

15 Foods to Boost Immune System

• Sunflower Seeds: They are very rich in Phosphorus, Magnesium, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin E.
• Avocados: They are rich in Vitamin E
• Spinach: It is very rich in Vitamin C, antioxidants, and beta-carotene.
• Ginger: It decreases inflammation and also helps with nausea.
• Garlic: Sulfur-containing compounds such as allicin are present in high concentrations.
• Broccoli: It is rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Poultry: Chicken and Turkey are high in Vitamin B6
• Shellfish: They’re packed with zinc, which in moderate amounts is good for immunity
• Kiwis: They’re packed with Folate, Potassium, Vitamin K, and Vitamin C.
• Almonds: They’re packed with Vitamin E.
• Yogurt: It is a natural probiotic and aids in the formation of good bacteria.
• Turmeric: Curcumin in turmeric aids in healing wounds and infections.
• Tulsi Leaves: It is rich in antioxidants.
• Mushrooms: It is rich in Vitamin D.
• Chickpeas: It is rich in Zinc.

5 Drinks to Boost Immune System

• Green tea: It is packed with flavonoids
• Mint Lassi: It is rich in Antioxidants, Minerals, and Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Vitamin A
• Papaya juice: It will be a good dose of Vitamin C
• Bela Pana: Wood Apple Juice is high in Fibre and rich in Vitamin C
• Sandalwood Iced Tea: Sandalwood has antioxidant properties

How to Boost Immune System When Sick?

• Consume a healthy diet
• Get adequate sleep
• Take enough rest
• Maintain a hygienic environment
• Avoid smoking and consumption of alcohol
• Take proper medications or immunity supplements
• Do exercise
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Minimize stress
• Keep up with all recommended vaccines to help your immune system fight off infections before they take hold.

Conditions and Disorders That Weaken the Immune System

• Autoimmune Diseases
• Allergies
• Cancer
• Infectious Diseases
• Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases
• Sepsis

Common Tests to Evaluate Immune System Function

Healthcare providers often use blood tests to evaluate the effectiveness of your immune system. Some of the common tests include:

• Antibody Test: Measures the presence and levels of antibodies, which indicate how well your immune system responds to infections.
• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Evaluates the number and condition of blood cells, including white blood cells, which are essential for immune defense.
• Complement Blood Test: Measures the levels of specific proteins in your blood, like C3 proteins, which are vital for immune response and inflammation regulation are essential for immune response and inflammation control.

Conclusion

A strong immune system is key to protecting your body from infections and diseases. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, eating nutrient-rich foods, staying active, getting enough rest, and keeping up with vaccinations can naturally boost your immunity. Regular health check-ups and immune function tests can help detect any issues early, ensuring your immune system stays resilient and effective.