Immune System 

The immune system is responsible for protecting the body against infection. Its major components include lymph nodes, bone marrow, spleen, thymus gland, and tonsils. The immune system creates antibodies, which react to specific infectious agents. In most cases, an antibody is created the first time that the body encounters a germ. The antibody then remains in the body, preventing a second infection by the same germ.

The immune system is an intricate network of specialized tissues, organs, cells, and chemicals. The lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow, thymus gland, and tonsils all play a role, as do lymphocytes (specialized white blood cells), antibodies, and interferon.

Two types of immunity protect the body: innate and adaptive. Innate immunity is present at birth and provides the first barrier against microorganisms. The skin, mucus secretions, and the acidity of the stomach are examples of innate immunity that act as barriers to keep unwanted germs away from more vulnerable tissues.

Some diseases, including HIV and Lupus, weaken the immune system. Antibodies do not form normally, and infections easily overtake the body. In some cases, medications can help counteract weakened immune systems.

Only in the last ten to twenty years has there been any real understanding of the complexity and importance of the immune system. Scientists have come to realize that stress and improper nutrition can lead to a breakdown in the immune system. The best way to form a strong immune system is through maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Controlled weight, healthy diet, and regular exercise can keep the body in the best shape possible to fight infections. Cleanliness, especially regular hand washing, can also help keep germs from invading the system.

Some foods appear to interfere with the body's immune function. Sugars inhibit white blood cells in their attempts to destroy bacteria. Alcohol and high dietary fat also interfere with immune function.

Allergies can also weaken the immune system. Many ear infections are caused by allergic reactions, especially to dairy. In these cases, antibiotics may treat the infection, but it will recur almost immediately. When allergies are affecting immunity, it may be necessary to discover which food or environmental agent is causing the problem, and avoid it as much as possible.

Healthy immune systems are our best hope for preventing, slowing, or surviving pandemics caused by bird flu and other viruses. Healthy immune systems can also help our bodies withstand the ravages of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and can prevent the resurgence of pathogens hiding in our bodies - like the herpes virus that causes cold sores and the mycobacterium that causes tuberculosis.

Creating and maintaining a healthy immune system is an active and multifaceted process. It requires a healthy lifestyle that includes a reasonable diet and at least moderate exercise. The lifestyle part is very important here. For people with otherwise healthy immune systems, eating some vegetables and exercising once a week can give the immune system a little lift, but it probably won't do much for its overall strength.

These recommendations are not comprehensive and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or pharmacist. Continue reading the full immune function article for more in-depth, fully-referenced information on medicines, vitamins, herbs, and dietary and lifestyle changes that may be helpful.