The Immune System: Operation & Care

The immune system's main function is to protect the body from ailments such as sickness and infection. It breaks down into two main branches to do this. One branch being the innate immunity and the other being adaptive immunity. But, the immune system is capable of other miraculous things aside from protecting the body. Our immune systems have the capability to recognize and remember a threat that invades the body to then store that information in case that sickness, bacteria or disease is ever contracted again. Not only do we have protection and recognition but our immune systems also provide regulation when they detect that there is no longer a threat to the body and heals what damage has been done by that ailment. In order for the immune system to fulfill these roles, you carry the responsibility of taking care of your body through a healthy diet, consistent activity and knowing how your body works and functions.

Avoid the night owl life.

• Lack of sleep can decrease the number of white blood cells responsible for fighting off germs, viruses and more.

• Aiming for the recommended 8-10 hours of sleep will positively affect the immune system and other bodily functions

  Cutting out excessive sugar intake.

• Excessive sugar intake has proven to be detrimental to the body in many different ways and prevents vitamin c from finding its way to white blood cells, keeping them from carrying out their job of killing invasive germs.

• Replace your sweet tooth cravings with naturally sweet whole foods such as fruits and others containing natural sugars.

  Staying active

• The American Red cross association website claims that adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of blood pumping, moderate physical activity a week to maintain a healthy body.

• 2.5 hours may not seem like a lot for a whole week but can be hard to stay consistent with and fit into a busy schedule. Anchoring your activity session to something like work or school can help you establish a time frame for it by getting ready

Ex. 30 minutes a day during the work week before or after work/school.

Water intake

• The human body is made up primarily of water and it is required to maintain a healthy body. Most people determine how much water to drink a day by dividing their body weight in pounds and drinking that number in fluid oz

Ex. 150 lbs = 75 oz water

• Over hydrating can cause water toxicity and cause an electrolyte imbalance leading to nausea, vomiting and even confusion or brain fog.

Find your healthy balance by listening to your body and taking action towards a healthier life.