What is your immune system?
How your immune system works
• Proteins called antibodies help white blood cells find and attack germs4c
• A series of small proteins found in the blood called the complement system assist white blood cells and antibodies in their defence duties4d
• The lymphatic system, a set of tubes a bit like veins and arteries, acts as battle ground for fighting germs and cancer cells, and managing your fluid levels4e
• The spleen is an organ that filters your blood, removing germs and damaged blood cells4f
• Bone marrow is where your white and red blood cells originate from4g
• The Thymus is another place where blood is filtered, and an additional source of white blood cells4h
What causes immune system problems?
Underactive immune system
Overactive immune system
Ways to strengthen your immune system
• Start with the basics of a good diet and regular exercise3c
• Take care of your gut by cutting back on alcohol and eating immune boosting foods: probiotics such as natural yoghurt, fibrous foods like fruit, grains and vegetables (particularly sprouted vegetables such as alfalfa and mung bean sprouts), fermented and cultured foods such as kimchi and pickles, gut-soothing foods like almonds, coconut oil, figs, parsley and prunes5,6
• Maintain good hygiene, which includes taking care of your teeth – daily flossing and regular visits to the dentist3b,7a,7b
• Get sufficient sleep as this is the time at which your body heals and defends itself – a lack of sleep or irregular sleeping patterns makes you more likely to get sick7c
• Regular daily sun exposure is one of the best ways to get Vitamin D which is important for immune system health, but be sun smart and avoid the midday sun8
• Manage your stress levels considering that while a little stress is normal, too much stress can lower your natural defences – make time to relax7d
• Avoid contact with people who appear sick – look out for runny, red noses9a
• Take a preventative approach and talk to your doctor about making sure your vaccines are up to date9b
• Take a natural supplement to enhance immune system functioning