Nutrition and Immune System
The role of nutrition boost your immune system has been well established. For example, a study on the role of vitamin A in the treatment of measles in children found a reduced risk of mortality and pneumonia when vitamin A was administered over two days. The European Journal of Clinical Nutrition concluded that “Without adequate nutrition, the immune system is clearly deprived of the components needed to generate an effective immune response” . Good nutrition is thus important in supporting an optimum immune system which can reduce the risk of viral infections.
It is now recognized that the complex, integrated immune system requires several micronutrients that have essential, often synergistic roles at every phase of the immune response . In fact, even marginal deficiencies in certain nutrients have been shown to impair the immune system . Micronutrients are believed to work collectively to support an optimum immune system. Based on a variety of systematic and clinical data, there are some Vitamins that boost immune system like vitamins A, B6, B12, C, D, E, folate, zinc, iron, copper, and selenium (Read our Vitamin and Mineral: a brief guide).
A well-functioning immune system is critical for survival. The immune system must be constantly alert, monitoring for signs of invasion or danger. Cells of the immune system must be able to distinguish self from non-self and furthermore discriminate between non-self molecules which are harmful (e.g., those from pathogens) and innocuous non-self molecules (e.g., from food). This blog of Nutrients explores the relationship between diet and nutrients, immune defense vitamins and immune function. We will understand the key functions of the immune system, and how it interacts with nutrients across the life course. This includes the role of macronutrients, micronutrients, and the gut microbiome in mediating immunological effects.
Broadly, cells of the immune system may be divided into those of the innate and those of the adaptive immune response. The innate response is the first response to an invading pathogen. Cells of the innate immune response include phagocytes (e.g., macrophages and monocytes). The innate response is rapid, but not specialized and is generally less effective than the adaptive immune response.
The adaptive immune response has the ability to specifically recognise a pathogen and ‘remember’ it if exposed to it again. T cells are critical in antigen recognition and the co-ordination of the immune response.
Role of Nutrition in Immune Function
Adequate and appropriate nutrition is required for all cells to function optimally and this includes the cells in the immune system. An “activated” immune system further increases the demand for energy during periods of infection, with greater basal energy expenditure during fever for example. Thus, optimal nutrition for the best immunological outcomes would be nutrition, which supports the functions of immune cells allowing them to initiate effective responses against pathogens but also to resolve the response rapidly when necessary and to avoid any underlying chronic inflammation. Keeping balanced nutrition in the diet is considered the best ways to boost immunity.
Contribution of Ayurvedic herbs to boost immunity
“Immunity is our body’s T-cells that protect and help us fight against diseases—viral or bacterial. In Ayurvedic terms, it also means your physical, mental and spiritual strength to handle any issue,’’ . Quality sleep, a balanced diet and regular exercise are key.
Turmeric is an Ayurvedic herbs that gives boost to immune system. There are supplements as well that can be considered in routine for healthy immune system
Conclusion
In discussions of immunity, antibodies often end up hogging the spotlight—but they’re not the only weapons the body wields against invaders. The sheer multitude of molecules at work helps explain why “immunity” is such a slippery concept.
When it’s a vitamin or supplement, supplements are regulated as foods and helps the body’s natural immunity to strengthen .
