Understanding Immunity is Vitally Important to Overall Health
Chris D. Meletis, ND (with permission from cpmedical.net, access pin: 587556)
The immune system is best compared to a well-trained army that utilizes both defensive and offensive mechanisms. Immune system chemicals such as interferon, antibodies, cytokines, etc. represent the marching orders, bullets and other devices the body uses to destroy microbes and tumors. It is the well-orchestrated synergy and function of each component that allows for the proper defense of the body against pathological invaders.
Proper immune function literally allows the human organism to survive in the milieu of pathogens and mutagenic cells that continuously bombard the harmonious existence of the 50 trillion cells that comprise homosapiens.
To ensure proper functioning for the immune system, sufficient and optimal nourishment and stimulation is essential. Sufficient hydration, adequate sleep, consuming a variety of fresh produce are all foundational. Yet in today’s world of excess stress, environmental pollutants and super-bugs, enhancement of immune function is crucial. Nurturing healthy immune systems proactively opposed to reactively is a must for those serious about maintaining wellness and healthy aging.
Understanding the immune system is vitally important to understanding which nutritional supplements can have the greatest effect on its function. In this article, I will address three important aspects of immunity: secretory IgA immunoglobulins, natural killer cells and the CD4/CD8 ratio.