Understand and Protect Your Own Immune System with This Helpful Guide
It would be impossible for our modern world to exist without all the technological advancements that keep it functioning. Personal computers and cell phones, nuclear reactors and electric cars; machines are a necessity to maintain progress and civilization. Machinery will always break down, since (at present) machines cannot fix themselves. In contrast to this, our naturally-produced bodies are machines that have evolved to correct any internal problems that arise, and they do so every minute of every day. For this reason, we do not go out to find a new body when ours is damaged or weakened in some way; we simply wait for the Human Immune System to fulfill its function.
The immune system is a network of bacteria, cells, and organs-from the simple to the complex-which seeks out and destroys any foreign, harmful material that invades the body. In tandem, it eradicates dead cells while eliminating mutated and/or possibly cancerous cells. There are two sub-strata that comprise the human immune system: bone marrow and the thymus. Bone marrow generates leukocytes (white blood cells) which pervade the body , hunting down and eliminating dangerous invaders. The thymus is a small organ, positioned just above the heart, that trains B cells (cells that create antibodies to battle infections), T cells (cells that are able to recognize specialized infections), "killer cells" (capable of locating and killing cancerous cells), and "eating cells" (destroyers of random debris and possibly harmful microorganisms). Overall, the immune system works with the human body's systems to protect it and maintain it, allowing it to function smoothly.
The immune system can be boosted through a number of means, whether scientific or natural.
Some herbs have been utilized in India for millennia to protect the immune system. Hoodia is perhaps the best known of these. Others include tulasi, triphala, amalaki, sahadevi, shatavari, ashwagandha, guduchi, lahsuna, and gokshura. Aromatherapy has become increasingly important and is recognized by most healthcare providers as a legitimate therapy for the immune system.
To reduce stress, which can and does adversely affect our immune systems, try meditating or yoga. Both are capable of lessening stress on your mind and body. Consider the benefits of aromatherapy as well.
Multivitamins are perhaps the easiest way to boost your immune system. They are extremely useful and easy to take on a regular basis. Additionally, there are an almost infinite number of vitamins and minerals available for purchase, although it is important to find out what your system requires before starting your own regimen.
Finally, the importance of sleep in the preservation of the immune system cannot be overstated. The less sleep an individual has, the weaker the immune system becomes as the numbers of T cells drop dramatically according to lessening levels of sleep. Consequently illness, which causes problems sleeping, further damages the immune system. It is therefore extremely important to get, at the very least, six hours of sleep a day.
Create a rhythm for your body to follow by going to sleep at the same time every day. Your immune system will follow this rhythm, increasing its efficiency. Try to do the same activity-read a book, listen to music; whatever works-every night before bed. Ensure that the area where you sleep is quiet, dark, and comfortable. Do not bring items from work or other stress-inducing things from your life to bed. Moreover, do not consume anything other than water for two hours before bed, and do not exercise for three hours before going to bed.