2023-10-05 23:35:41
Severe allergic symptoms, asthma and autoimmune diseases are some of the possible consequences of not taking care of the immune system.
(Be sure to read: What are the vitamins that should be consumed to strengthen the immune system?).
As its name indicates, its main function is to take care of health, when facing external factors that may endanger the human body. But when it doesn’t work well, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, the immune system can begin to attack healthy cells and deteriorate their health.
And how can we keep the immune system in good condition? Having a healthy lifestyle – such as good sleep, exercise and an optimal diet – is essential, but are there more specific products or advice that contribute to good immune functioning?
The immune system can cause serious illnesses if it does not function properly.
Robert H. Shmerling – former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and member of the Faculty of Medicine of the renowned Harvard University -, together with the institution of which he is a part, sheds some light on the regarding it in an article of his authorship.
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Are there products or foods that, by themselves, promote the proper functioning of the immune system?
Many products are sold by advertisers in the US and globally as “immune function boosters” or supplements that “support immune health.” The expert assures that these terms are vague and confusing.
Allergies are usually one of the consequences of poor functioning of the immune system.
In his opinion, there are no foods or supplements that a person should avoid or consume too much of to improve their immune system: “It is true that a deficiency of vital nutrients can cause poor immune function. But that doesn’t mean that a person with normal nutrient levels can expect supplements to improve their immune system.”
Regarding cleansing (known as detox) and intravenous treatments at home – marketed as supposed agents that eliminate harmful substances that can enter the body through air, water and food; and that may have harmful effects – are not regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration.
“In fact, the standard disclaimer on supplement claims for immune-boosting properties says: ‘This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease,’” H. Shmerling explains in the article.
(You can also read: Why skipping breakfast can compromise the immune system).
Tips from Harvard University medical expert Robert H. Shmerling to take care of your immune system
Now, what habits or products can promote the proper functioning of the immune system? In principle, vaccines, which train you to fight a specific infectious organism.
The doctor recommends keeping vaccines up to date.
In addition, the expert gives the following recommendations to keep your immune system at its peak performance: follow a heart-healthy diet – such as the Mediterranean diet -, exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight, do not smoke – or vape -, consume alcoholic beverages in moderation , have good sleeping habits and minimize stress.
Finally, it is advisable to have your vaccination card up to date and have a periodic medical check-up. Also, avoid infections through correct hygiene -mainly of your hands-, having as little contact as possible with people who have a contagious disease and wearing face masks when recommended.
(You may be interested in: Probiotics: what foods contain them and how do they help the immune system?).
What is antimicrobial resistance and how does it affect the immune system?
The immune system’s mission is to prevent bacteria from entering the body and causing damage. Precisely, the medications that treat bacterial infections and help combat their negative effects on health are antibiotics.
One of the most worrying phenomena in recent years, which could be the fatal pandemic of the future, is antimicrobial resistance. The World Health Organization (WHO) described this problem as “one of the greatest threats to global health, food security and development.”
Inappropriate use of antibiotics leads to the emergence of increasingly resistant bacteria.
And in recent years, the appearance of multidrug-resistant bacteria – resistant to these drugs – has become a thorn in the side of public health globally, because the drugs used to treat infections become less and less effective.
The scenario is not encouraging at all, according to some forecasts: in the year 2050, bacterial infections would be the main cause of mortality worldwide and the number of deaths from this cause would reach up to 10 million people per year, exceeding by number to traffic accidents, cancer and diabetes.
(You can also read: Are bacteria becoming resistant to antibiotics? Everything indicates yes.)
Some people may need extra help from medications and therapies; an immune booster
According to Dr. María Virginia Villegas, an internist and infectious disease specialist, this resistance can occur more frequently in people over 60 years of age, in whom the immune system is decreasing, as well as in cancer patients.
For this reason, it is important that those who have an underlying disease not only keep their immune system in good condition, but also acquire an immune boost.
“Certain diseases (HIV, some cancers, and autoimmune disorders) or their treatments can affect the functioning of the immune system. Therefore, some people may need additional help from medications and therapies, which could really count as an immune booster,” concludes the article consulted on the official website of Harvard University.
You may also be interested in reading:
– Respiratory diseases: ten tips to keep the immune system strong
– They decode a key part of the human immune system
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