How to Boost Immunity: Need To Know
How to boost immunity refers to the ability of an organism to resist harmful pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses, and the substances they produce. This can be achieved through innate immunity, which is present at birth, or through acquired immunity, which develops over time through exposure to pathogens or through vaccination. Acquired immunity can be further divided into active immunity, which is developed through infection or vaccination, and passive immunity, which is acquired through the transfer of antibodies from another organism.
There are several signs and symptoms that can indicate a low immune system, including:
- Frequent infections (such as colds, ear infections, and pneumonia)
- Slow healing of wounds
- Fatigue and weakness
- Recurrent viral infections (such as cold sores and genital herpes)
- Allergies and asthma
- Autoimmune disorders (such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus)
However, it is important to note that having some of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has a low immune system. A definitive diagnosis can only be made by a qualified healthcare professional through specific tests.
It is also worth noting that there is no one definitive way to measure “high immunity” as the immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to protect the body, and it can also be affected by many factors, including age, genetics, lifestyle and environment.
But in general, a healthy diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, stress management, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can help support a strong immune system.
There are several medications and supplements that can be used to support the immune system, but it is important to note that none of them can directly “increase” immunity. These include:
Vitamin C – How to Boost Immunity :
This antioxidant vitamin plays a role in the formation of collagen, which is important for the skin and blood vessels, as well as the immune system.
Vitamin D – How to Boost Immunity:
This vitamin plays a role in the regulation of the immune system and deficiency has been linked to a higher risk of infections.
Zinc – How to Boost Immunity:
This mineral plays a role in the development and function of the immune system and deficiency has been linked to a higher risk of infections.
Probiotics – How to Boost Immunity:
These are beneficial bacteria that live in the gut and support the immune system.
Echinacea – How to Boost Immunity:
This herb has been traditionally used to support the immune system and may help reduce the severity and duration of colds.
Andrographis – How to Boost Immunity:
This herb has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine to support the immune system and may help reduce the severity and duration of upper respiratory tract infections.
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication or supplement. They can help determine the appropriate dosage and any potential interactions with other medications or health conditions.
Passive immunity is common in certain situations, such as in newborn infants and in some medical treatments.
Newborns receive passive immunity from their mother through the placenta in utero and through breast milk after birth. This provides protection against certain infections during the early months of life before their own immune system is fully developed.
Active immunity refers to a type of acquired immunity where an individual’s immune system produces its own antibodies and immune cells in response to exposure to a pathogen. This process usually takes several days or weeks to occur and the protection can last for a long time, sometimes even for a lifetime.
Active immunity can be acquired naturally through infection, or artificially through vaccination. When a person is infected with a pathogen, their immune system recognizes the pathogen as foreign and launches an immune response to eliminate it. As part of this response, the immune system produces antibodies that specifically target the pathogen. These antibodies remain in the body and provide protection against future infections with the same pathogen.
Vaccination works in a similar way, but instead of exposing the person to the actual pathogen, a harmless version of the pathogen (or a component of it) is introduced. This triggers an immune response, but without the person experiencing the disease. This provides protection against the disease, without the risk of severe illness or death.
It is worth noting that active immunity is longer lasting than passive immunity and it is generally considered to be more effective in providing long-term protection against the pathogen.
Passive immunity can also be artificially induced through the use of immune globulin (IG) or antiserum. This can be given to individuals who have been exposed to certain pathogens, such as tetanus or rabies, to provide immediate protection while the person’s own immune system produces an active immune response. This is also used in post-exposure prophylaxis for certain diseases such as Hepatitis A and B.
Passive immunity is also used to protect people who are unable to produce an immune response due to certain medical conditions, such as a weakened immune system or cancer treatment.
It is worth noting that Passive immunity provides a temporary protection and lasts for a shorter duration compared to active immunity. But it can be helpful in certain situations where rapid protection is needed before active immunity can be established.