Five Facts About Your Immune System

Five Facts About Your Immune System
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This article is all about strengthening your immune system—your body’s natural defense system against health threats. It works all day, every day to defend against harmful invaders so you can stay healthy and strong!

You don’t have to leave your immune system health up to genetics or chance; you can actively support it! We’ve got some tips and tricks to help you do just that. After all, we are The Immune System Company.

1. MEET THE SUPPORT TEAM

Your immune system is made up of different cells, each with a specific job. Natural Killer (NK) cells detect and destroy harmful invaders. T cells distinguish between friend and foe. B cells assist in antibody production and immune system memory. Macrophages consume microbes, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. These cells are all different, and they’re all important.

2. GIVE YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM A BOOST

You’ve probably heard of antioxidants. But what do they do in your body? Antioxidants help your body fight off free radicals—molecules that can cause damage or illness. Antioxidants are found in many fruits and vegetables, and even in dark chocolate!

3. THINK ZINC

Zinc is a necessary element in your body that helps strengthen your immune system. Your body doesn’t store zinc, so it’s important that you incorporate it into your diet. Zinc aids in the normal production and function of immune system cells. Zinc also empowers the function of specific key immune system cells like T cells.

4. GIVE IT A REST

Getting seven to eight hours of sleep a night is a great way to strengthen and support your immune system. In fact, sleep deprivation can cause your immune system to be less effective. If you don’t get enough sleep at night, a couple 20-minute naps throughout the day can help fight the effects of sleep deprivation.1

5. GO WITH YOUR GUT

Your gut health and immune system health are linked! In fact, 70% of your immune system cells reside in your gut.2 Your gut has a lot of friendly (and beneficial) bacteria that supports a healthy immune system and helps your body function properly. The more varied your gut flora, the more effective your immune system will be. Mix up your diet often to diversify your gut flora.