Our body is a complex structure composed of cells, tissues, bones, fluids and various organ systems that function in sync to support life. Naturally, this structure requires a robust immune system that fights against foreign bodies that attempt to interfere with its smooth functioning.
The National Cancer Institute defines the immune system as ’A complex network of cells, tissues, organs, and the substances they make, which helps the body fight infections and other diseases. The immune system includes white blood cells as well as the organs and tissues of the lymphatic system, such as the thymus, spleen, tonsils, lymph nodes, lymph vessels, and bone marrow.’
Our immune system has a collection of complex cells and chemicals that defend our bodies against invasive bodies such as pathogens, bacteria, viruses and several other toxins that try to harm our bodies. At all times, we need to prioritise the strength of our immune system that it protects us from diseases, infections and various other ailments that might weaken the fighting bodies in our being.
Eating healthy on a regular basis is great for a start, but we must also consider the mindful addition of supplements to further strengthen our immunity. Some immunity boosting supplements are as follows. But it’s highly recommended to always consult an expert or general physician before opting to consume any of these -
1. B Complex Vitamins - Vitamin B6 and B12 are extremely good for healthy immune response. As per research, several adults are deficient in B complex Vitamins.
2. Vitamin C - This is considered to be the best supplement for protection against infections.
An article on the website ‘Healthline’ states the below ways in which Vitamin C helps immunity:
• Promotes cellular turnover by clearing out old cells and replacing them with new ones
• Functions as an antioxidant and protects against oxidative stress
• Reduces the duration and severity of upper respiratory tract infections, including the common cold
3. Vitamin D - Vitamin D helps in healing inflammation in the respiratory system. It is also important to understand that Vitamin D deficiency may lead to increased risks in ailments such as Type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, some kinds of cancer and even depression. Vitamin D helps in improving the pathogen-fighting effects of monocytes and macrophages — white blood cells that are important parts of your immune defence system.
4. Zinc - One conspicuous ailment caused due to zinc deficiency is ‘pneumonia’. Not enough zinc interrupts the proper functioning of the overall immune system. Other added benefits of adequate zinc intake –include the prevention of foreign pathogens from entering the body, protection of tissue barriers, the development of immune cells and the reduction of inflammation. However, one has to be very careful about overdosing on Zinc.
5. Garlic - Easily accessible and very natural, garlic has innumerable properties to quickly boost the immune system. It has anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulating qualities. The National Library Of Medicine also suggests that garlic may help enhance immune health by stimulating and enhancing certain cytokines.
