Before leaving August and entering into my September Blog Post which will include information about how to avoid cancer and more information about options to cancer treatment while tying into it’s all together. Let’s add a little about immune response and the important aspects that keeps it strong to help free it from stress and disease. On the whole your immune system does a remarkable job defending you against disease causing microorganisms.
However, that doesn’t mean the effects of lifestyle on the immune system aren’t intriquing and shouldn’t be studied. Quite the contrary, researchers are exploring the effects of diet, exercise, psychological stress, age and other factors on the immune response. Be skeptical: many products on store shelves claim to boost or support immunity, however, concepts of boosting immunity actually makes little sense.
Scientifically, attempting to boost cells of the immune system is complicated, because there are so many different kinds of cells in the immune system that respond to so many different microbes in so many different ways. So which cells should you boost and to what number? So far, scientists do not know that answer! Researchers are trying to explore the effects of a variety of factors — from the foods we consume to exercise and stress on immunity.
Although what is known is that the aging process somehow leads to a reduction of immune response capability. Thereby, which in turn contribute to infections, inflammatory diseases and cancer. While some people age healthier than others, no one knows for sure ‘why’ this happens. Some scientists believe it correlates with a decrease in T-cells possibly from atrophy producing fewer T – cells to fight off infections.
Yet other researchers are looking at the connection between lack of nutrition and immunity. A elderly person deficient in some of the essential vitamins and trace minerals is considered micro-nutrient mal nutritious and this can be common in the elderly. Older people tend to eat less and often have less variety in their diet…. while a typical Standard American Diet (SAD) is disastrous to their health.
One important question that always arises…. is whether dietary supplements are beneficial to maintain a healthy immune system. The elderly, should always be open to discuss this with a physician well – versed in geriatric nutrition. There is some evidence various micro nutrient deficiencies of zinc, selenium, iron, copper, folic acid and vitamin A, B6, C, E — will alter immune response.
So what can you do? If you suspect your diet doesn’t provide you with all your micro nutrient needs. Consult a Certified Nutritional Expert for further blood test (analyst of your biochemical make up.) Also remember to hydrate: water ~ water at least four pints a day will help your immunity. Stick to the liter – by – lunch rule that will help you reach that limit later by days end. While holding the ice, water at room temperature hydrates the body better than cold water and helps build a healthy lymphatic system!!!