So just how does your immune system work?
Well in order to understand that, we need to first know what the immune system is…
You see…
Our bodies are under continuous attacks from various toxins, germs, and pollutants; 24 hours a day 7 days a week, from the moment of birth to the moment of death, we will face countless biological enemies that want to control us for their gain.
Every time we breathe air that’s saturated with smoke, carbon monoxide, dirt particles, fumes, chemicals; even when we handle waste products, garbage, and object with unknown travel history.
So, by now you’re probably wondering; how am I suppose to live my life… In Fear?
ABSOLUTELY NOT!
Thankfully we’re equipped with a biological security system that fights this lifetime battle for us, provided we equip it with the proper materials to do that job. This life saving bio-form is known as the Immune System, your body’s True HERO!
What is your immune system?
Your immune system is an Amazing function of specialized and non-specialized cells, organs, and structures that work together to identify and destroy harmful biological foreign invaders before they get to your body.
Cool, right?
Well…
What are the components of your immune system?
Think of your immune system as your body’s own defense department with several branches that work together to achieve a common goal; to protect your body against foreign invaders.
Now, without getting too “sciencey” I will briefly breakdown each component of your immune system. Beginning with the most common cell associated with your immune system, the White Blood Cell.
White blood cells are the backbone of the immune system. There are three essential types of white blood cells that perform a variety of key roles in your immune function.
1) Starting with the humoral immunity component; these are specialized B-cells, that produce antibodies to fight off foreign invaders. So, think of these cells as your body’s combat soldiers. But, these B-cell soldiers wouldn’t be able to fight without the help of…
2) Think of these next set of cells as your body’s own communications department known as the cell-mediated immunity. Specialized cells, called T-Cells that coordinate the activities of multiple segments (B-cells) of the immune system in mounting an efficient attack against enemy cells.
3) Now, the third set of white bloods cells are known as nonspecific effector cells; these cells do not have a specialized function and can kill or eat invaders without outside assistance. I would categorize these cells as the ‘Gladiators‘ of your body.
The 2nd component of your body’s immune system is the Reticuloendothelial System, or RES. This system is made up of immune system cells in the spleen, lymph nodes, liver, bone marrow, lungs, and intestinal.
RES along with the lymphatic system is the body’s sanitation department and is responsible for disposing of the “trash” that pollutes our body’s blood. Also, RES serves as the site where immune cells wait until foreign invasion triggers their activation.
…Similar to the gladiator cells mentioned above, the complement system, has the ability to identify and destroy enemies on first sight. This system is substance that can bind to trespassing cells and bacteria to attract other immune cells to eat the invaders, but it can kill invading organisms outright by poking holes in their ‘skin’ allowing water to flow in.
Too ‘sciencey’ for ya..?
Sorry… I can get pretty graphic sometimes when describing this Stuff.
But I promise I’ll control my ‘sciencey’ ways from this point on…
~Just keep reading…
The third component of your body’s immune system are just some simply human functions that we may or may not know are key’s to protect us. These components can be categorized as nonspecific defense mechanisms at your body’s disposal.
For example;
Your stomach produces acid so strong that it can kill most toxins and germs we may swallow. Mucus produced throughout your body can trap and kill alien material. Friendly bacteria live in our intestinal tract and stave off attack from unwelcomed and unwanted visitors.
Hairs in our noses and ears keep particles of dust and dirt out; tears and saliva are similar functions in our eyes and mouth, respectively.
Are you still with me?
Last thing…
Now, there’s a unique structure of mucus and microscopic hairs called the mucociliary blanket or elevator that catches pollutants in the air we breathe before they reach our lungs and carries them upward to where they can be coughed out or swallowed.
The human body’s defense mechanism is Truly AMAZING.
Each branch has different assigned tasks that complement each other. Like poetry in motion – beautifully aligned to help one another.
It’s our job to understand and learn the proper materials to be able build, support, and nurture this mechanism.
Your body is the only body we have; might as well learn how to take care of it.
…And THAT, my friend, is how your immune system works.
Think the human race would be able to survive without this defense mechanism..?
Of Course Not.
Without a fully functioning immune system many of us wouldn’t be able to maximize our lifespans.
If you want maximum immunity – instead of a “react and respond” health plan – arm yourself with the knowledge to seek out natural ways to support your immune system before problems occur.
I hope this blog post helps you along your journey!
Feel free to share away the truth about your immune system, if this information has helped you.
Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know your thoughts on this.
Keep doing Great and stay COOL!
Thanks for reading.
Keep Smiling!
Health Marketer, Ime Ntekpere