“An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” We’ve all heard that before. That’s because it’s true. But not just about apples. Eating right is the broader meaning of the saying, and eating well helps to keep your body functioning normally, including your immune system. When you supply your body with the nutrients it needs, you help support a healthy immune system. Being deficient in just one or a few essential nutrients can impair your immune system function, making you more susceptible to disease and illness.
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Immune Support Benefits:
*Support immune system
*Combats harmful antigens
*Promotes cell production
*Maintains overall health and wellbeing
Immune Functions
The body is made up of a complicated network of mechanisms that work together to keep you healthy. The immune system helps maintain your health by fighting off harmful antigens like allergens, bacteria, and viruses. The skin and the membranes on the entry points to the body are the body’s first line of defense against antigens. The entryways include the nasal passages, the eyes, the respiratory tract, and the digestive tract. When antigens do make it through the skin and the entryways, they next have to deal with specialized white blood cells. These white blood cells are known as T-lymphocytes, cells which flow constantly through the body looking for antigens to attack.
Cell Protection
B-lymphocytes, neutrophils, and macrophages are cells that help protect the body from antigens and germs. B-lymphocytes are blood proteins that get rid of germs. Neutrophils and macrophages find antigens in the blood and carry them to the lymphatic system for disposal. In order for these processes to function effectively and protect us from bacterial infections, it is essential that you provide them with the nutrients they need. Providing your immune system with all necessary nutrients helps it fight off germs and strengthens the vascular system. Keeping the vascular system strong in turn helps the immune system be more effective, as the immune system relies on the bloodstream (i.e. vascular system) to move infection-fighting cells around the body.
Fruits, Vegetables & Proteins
Fruits and vegetables are key components of a healthy diet. They tend to have high amounts of vitamins A and C, and are also a good source of antioxidants, which help support your body’s anti-viral and anti-bacterial functions. The nutrients in fruits and vegetables aid in maintaining the lymphocytes’ ability to divide and reproduce in order to combat viruses. To obtain the variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants your immune system needs, you should eat 5 to 9 servings of fruits and vegetables daily. The best way to do this is to eat two different colors of vegetables and fruits with every meal along with a serving of lean protein. Proteins are another key part of a balanced diet. Protein promotes the production of white blood cells that kill antigens. The amino acids found in protein are necessary for building the body’s cells, including those involved in immune system functions. Protein and amino acids are vital for increasing the creation of immune system cells.
Diet & Supplementation
There is not just one particular nutrient or food that destroys germs. Eating a balanced diet is essential, and eating healthy is the best way to maintain a healthy immune system. A healthy diet is a key aspect of keeping your immune system functioning properly and can help you avoid visits to the doctor. Today’s modern diet is often nutrient deficient, making it important to find an appropriate immune support supplement to compliment your needs.