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The terms "immunity" and "immune system" are commonly heard. What exactly do they refer to?

From a scientific perspective, the body's defense and protection system is very complex. But not just in humans. Other animals, and to some extent even plants, also have immunity. It is the ability of an individual to defend against cells of pathogenic organisms, viruses, but also against tumor cells. Collectively, these "troublemakers" in biology are called antigens.

The entire system is very complex and multifaceted. The skin and mucous membranes naturally protect us from "harmful" microscopic invaders from the outside. If antigens overcome these external barriers and enter the internal environment of our organism, the human body sends special white blood cells, called leukocytes, and special proteins that bind to these aggressors. This causes inflammation. At the same time, the body responds with a specific reaction to the particular pathogen using other white blood cells, called lymphocytes, and antibodies.

Now, let's put it in simpler terms. Our immune system is constantly working in many different ways. We usually don't even notice it until it fails for some reason. For example, if you cut yourself or otherwise injure yourself, various bacteria and viruses can easily enter your body. The immune system will react and remove the antigens from the area, the skin will heal, and the wound will close. If the immune system misses something, the area may become infected. The immune system will react, causing inflammation and pus, both of which are side effects of the immune system working to correct the problem.

Another example where we can see the immune system in action is when we are stung by an insect. A red spot and a bump appear at the site of the sting, which is also a process triggered by the immune system. Similarly, we ingest large amounts of bacteria and viruses daily through food, drink, and breathing. And we usually don't suffer from it. However, if something is missed, we might get the flu. The immune system will react and begin to fight the disease. Recovery is a sign that the immune system has successfully dealt with the illness; otherwise, we would never be able to recover.

If the immune system does not function properly, it can cause problems. For example, allergies (an exaggerated reaction to an antigen that most people do not react to at all). Errors in the immune system (inflammation that the body cannot control) can also lead to type 2 diabetes, heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or even cancer. On the other hand, sometimes the immune system is detrimental to us, for example, during transplants, where it is often the immune system that causes the rejection of donated organs.

Recipes, tips, and recommendations on how to boost the immune system.

  • Aloe vera has become a popular remedy in recent years for improving overall health. It regulates digestion, which is good because the immune system "resides" in the gut. There are drinks, foods, and capsules containing this succulent available on the market.

  • Beta-glucans are a well-known remedy for boosting immunity. They can be found in mushrooms (and their extracts) such as shiitake, maitake, and oyster mushrooms. They activate not only immune cells (leukocytes) but also support specific immunity. In addition to the raw and dried mushrooms mentioned, there are many dietary supplements on the market (e.g., oyster mushroom capsules, Betaglukan, Viraimun, etc.).

  • Garlic is known to everyone. We know that it is called a natural antibiotic, and it can be recommended to be consumed raw. However, it can lower blood pressure, and people with gallbladder problems should be careful.

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    Echinacea is known for its ability to boost the immune system – many people turn to it when they have respiratory problems. It activates white blood cells and has a number of medicinal properties.

    Oregano is a relatively underrated spice in our country. However, it is a natural antibiotic and has antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

    Sea buckthorn – another plant (in this case, a shrub). Its berries are rich in vitamin C, but also contain other beneficial substances.

    Vitamins and minerals are, of course, essential. Vitamin C is a well-known antioxidant and helps prevent colds and upper respiratory infections. However, other vitamins and minerals are also important for boosting the immune system: vitamins A, B, and E, as well as iron, zinc, selenium, and calcium. All of these can be obtained from food with a varied and well-balanced diet.

    In addition, various enzymes, flavonoids, fish oil, and fresh vegetables (broccoli, tomatoes, cabbage, spinach), fruits (citrus fruits, bananas, dark fruits – blueberries, cherries, blackcurrants, red wine), and spices (ginger, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, horseradish), as well as drinking pure water or green tea or chamomile tea, can also help us.

    What else can we do? Stop smoking, exercise, avoid stress, and don't overexert yourself. Avoid refined sugar in particular. A slightly unconventional piece of advice is to use a small trampoline. But there's a reason for that. Jumping on a trampoline stimulates the lymphatic system, and lymph flows 15-30 times faster than normal. Every movement helps the lymph flow.

    Finally, here are two recipes to boost your immune system

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    Juice three carrots, an apple, an orange, and half a beetroot. Drink regularly in the morning with breakfast.

    Pour 4 grams of a herbal mixture over one cup of boiling water: 15 grams of common plantain, 10 grams of comfrey, 10 grams of St. John's Wort, 7 grams of divizna, 5 grams of fennel, 4 grams of chamomile, 5 grams of thyme. Steep for 20 minutes and drink twice a day before meals.

    This article was published with the kind permission of the Sféra magazine.

    DIOCHI.

    casopis-sfera.cz / gnews.cz-HeK