Nature knows how to take care of our immune system
The immune system is the defense system that our body has against aggressive agents; it is capable of detecting and attacking them in order to keep us healthy.
How does the immune system work?
When the body detects foreign substances that invade it (Antigens), the immune system sets everything in motion to recognize and eliminate them by manufacturing antibodies.
Antibodies remain in the body, so if the immune system encounters that antigen again later on, the immune system will make those antibodies available to defend it. This explains why many times a certain illness only occurs once in a person. Although antibodies can recognize antigens and immobilize them, they do not have the ability to destroy them on their own. That is the responsibility of "natural killer cells," which destroy the antigens as well as cells that have been infected with a microorganism or have changed for some reason.
Other functions of antibodies in the body include:
- Neutralizing poisonous substances or toxins and thus minimizing their action
- Activating the complement system, which is also part of the immune system and contributes to destroying bacteria, viruses, and infected cells.
All these types of cells work tirelessly to protect the body from contracting different types of diseases. This protection is called Immunity.
How can we contribute to a good immune system and avoid getting sick?
As we already explained, the immune system is a complex world, which is highly influenced by our lifestyle and can benefit from certain healthy habits. Below, we share some of them so you can make them part of your day-to-day life:
- Ensure a good intake of vitamin E, vitamin A (as Beta-carotene), and vitamin C; all of them have an antioxidant effect, stimulate the proper functioning of the immune system, and help prevent different diseases, especially of an infectious nature.
- If you engage in physical activity, make sure to consume an extra dose of vitamin C, because although exercise is healthy and brings great health benefits, it requires more antioxidants compared to sedentary people.
- Iron, zinc, copper, and selenium are minerals necessary for the proper functioning of the immune system and are fundamental for correct protection against infections. Ensure you consume them in adequate amounts.
- Consume at least 5 portions of fresh fruits and vegetables daily. These are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant substances that naturally reinforce your defenses. Try to consume fruits of different colors, as their antioxidants vary according to their pigments; thus, if you consume fruits and vegetables of different colors, you will be consuming a greater variety of nutrients and antioxidants.
- Control your fat consumption; prefer those that come from: sea fish, nuts, avocado, seeds like chia, soy, and flaxseed, as well as oils of: olive, soy, and canola. Make sure you don't miss out on a good dose of omega-3 per week.
- Frequently consume fermented foods like yogurt and/or foods with probiotics; these help your defense system work better.
- Lean on the natural assets that nature gives us.
During rainy seasons or when there are marked weather changes, it is essential to strengthen our defense system, as this helps our body make flu episodes last less time and symptoms be milder.
Do you know the gifts of nature? We invite you to discover them:
- Honey: Sweet and viscous fluid produced by bees. It possesses antimicrobial effects (fights bacteria), and due to its nutritional qualities, it helps increase defenses, improving the body's resistance to infections. It helps control coughing due to its texture and sweetness.
- Cashew: Nut with antimicrobial properties, contains tannins (anti-inflammatory compounds), is rich in vitamin A, C, E, and zinc (powerful antioxidants), which is why it helps in strengthening the immune system
- Propolis: Sweet and viscous fluid produced by bees. It possesses antimicrobial effects (fights bacteria), and due to its nutritional qualities, it helps increase defenses, improving the body's resistance to infections. It helps control coughing due to its texture and sweetness.
- Ganoderma Lucidum (Reishi):Strengthens the immune system by intensifying the function of T-cells (natural killers), which are responsible for protecting the body from infections.
- Pollen: Fine, colored powder found in flowers that intervenes in the fruit formation process. A source of vitamins (A, C, B complex) and minerals. Reinforces the immune system. Revitalizing and restorative
- Probiotic cultures: Beneficial bacteria that live in the intestine and improve the general health of the body, bringing benefits such as facilitating digestion and nutrient absorption, and strengthening the immune system.
- Garlic: The components of garlic make it an excellent antibiotic, antiviral, and an ideal stimulant for the immune system.
- Calabash: The fruit pulp has been used orally for the treatment of respiratory conditions, such as asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, the common cold, and coughs.
- Cinnamon: Helps prevent colds, as it is an expectorant and possesses analgesic properties
- Ginger: The root has antioxidant properties, which helps strengthen the immune system, preventing colds. Useful for reducing throat and respiratory tract infections due to its properties
- Mint: Aromatic herb. Relieves nasal congestion, is an expectorant, and improves throat irritation caused by colds.