Immune system- What is your immune system? protects your body from outside invaders, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and toxins (chemicals produced by microbes).
There are two main parts of the immune system:
- The innate immune system, which you are born with. The innate immune system is inherited and is active from the moment you are born. When this system recognizes an invader, it goes into action immediately. The cells of this immune system surround and engulf the invader. The invader is killed inside the immune system cells.
- The adaptive immune system, which you develop when your body is exposed to microbes or chemicals released by microbes. The acquired immune system, with help from the innate system, produces cells (antibodies) to protect your body from a specific invader. These antibodies are developed by cells called B lymphocytes after the body has been exposed to the invader. The antibodies stay in your body. It can take several days for antibodies to develop. But after the first exposure, the immune system will recognize the invader and defend against it. The acquired immune system changes throughout your life.
***These two immune systems work together.
Organs-
Spleen- largest lymphatic organ, like a large lymph node, filters the blood
Thymus gland- large gland that produces T-lymphocytes which provide immunity
Tonsils- large lymph nodes in throat protecting oral cavity
Adenoids- lymph nodes protecting the nasal cavity
Lymph nodes- chains throughout body except nervous system. Filter particles,
bacteria. Produce lymphocytes (attack bacteria, viruses and other parasitic cells)
Lymphatic vessels- filters filters the blood from bacteria and foreign particles
Healthy functioning Immune System-
Normal body temp 98.6
No signs of illness (fever, infection etc.)
Normal energy levels
You have good gut health
You recover well from colds and flus
Your wounds are fast to heal
You never catch a cold
One example is when you get a mosquito bite. The red, bumpy itch is a sign of your immune system at work. You catch the flu or a cold is a typical example of your body failing to stop the germs/bacteria before they get in.
Weakened Immune System-
Chronic infections-get sick frequently
Allergies- chemicals, pollen, pet dander, molds
Auto-immune disorders-Lupus, Rheumatoid, Hashimoto’s etc.
Low energy- Tired all the time,
Other health issues (cardiovascular, diabetes)
Frequent use antibiotics
Wounds slow to heal
Poor Gut Health
Challenges to Immune System-
Environmental- Chemicals, Toxins, Pollution, Poor Diet
Obesity
Health Conditions- Diabetes, Cardiovascular Conditions
Stress- Nervous system, adrenal stress, cardiovascular stress
Stress is the root of many major diseases (HBP, Diabetes, CVD)
Infections- bacterial, viral
Alcohol, cigarettes, drugs, sugar- Weakens vitality. Challenges organ
Poor Sleep- Lack recuperative properties of sleep, lowers energy levels
Ways to Test affects on Immune system-
Laboratory Blood tests- CBC or specific tests
Body Symptom Survey- monitors organ systems for stress and dysfunction
Toxin Exposure questionnaire- symptoms based on toxic overload to body and liver
- Immune System Test – 12 question Quiz – https://www.healthshots.com/quiz/answer-these-12-questions-and-well-reveal-just-how-strong-your-immune-system-is/
6 Strategies to STRENGTHEN Your Immune function-
*Most important thing you can focus on for your health right now!
1 Chiropractic adj- Reduces stress to NS and improves NS function. Increases IL-2 (protective), Decreases IL-6 and other cell mediators (TNF, CRP etc.)
2 Exercise- allows immune cells to perform effectively — it increases blood flow, reduces stress and inflammation, and can strengthen antibodies.
3 Healthy Food-Citrus fruits. Red bell peppers, Broccoli, Garlic, Ginger, Spinach, Yogurt, Almonds, Kiwi, Papaya, Green tea, Turmeric
4 Rest/Sleep- Researchers have found that during nightly sleep, certain components of the immune system rev up. In fact, sleep contributes to both innate and adaptive immunity.
5 Meditation- calms the nervous system and the stress system
6 Supplements-
Turmeric (Curcumin) – Anti-viral, anti-inflammatory
Echinacea- Decreases inflammation, Increases NK cells
Andrographis- Improves respiratory infections
Tulsi (Holy Basil)- Increased NK cells, T helper cells
Licorice- Anti-viral activity, Anti-inflammatory
St. John’s Wort- Anti-viral
Ashwaganda- Anti-inflammatory, NS calming, good for insomnia
