A strong immune system is important to protect your body against infections, cancers, and other diseases.
Your immune system is your first line of defense against foreign invaders trying to damage your cells or organs. The immune system’s army of white blood cells are responsible for identifying threats and eliminating them from the body; neutralizing pathogens (viruses, bacteria etc.) and destroying malfunctioning cells (cancer, etc). There are several different types of immune cells involved in response and they are classified based on their mode of defense.
NK CELL
Plays a critical role in both the innate and adaptive immune response by attacking infected or abnormal cells, such as cancer cells
MACROPHAGE
Part of the innate immune response. Engulfs (phagocytosis) abnormal cells and helps initiate specific first-line defense mechanisms. Also helps shape adaptive response by antigen presentation to T cells.
T CELL
Part of the adaptive immune response. T cell receptor allows interaction with multiple factors of the innate immune response including cross-talk with antigen presenting cells (such as macrophages) and differentiation between healthy and abnormal cells via their T cell receptor. Also plays a role in shaping B cell responses
B CELL
Part of the adaptive immune response. Cells responsible for secreting antibodies
Your natural defense system fights to eliminate pathogens and abnormal cells from your body to keep you healthy. When you have a strong immune system, you are more likely to be better protected against infections, cancers and other diseases. However, when your immune system is weak it does not provide strong enough protection.
You can give your immune system a fighting chance by taking an active role in your health. There are many things that you can do to help your immune function such as following a proper diet, reducing stress, exercising, and resolving vitamin deficiencies. It is also important to know your NK cell activity level so you can keep track of your immune status on a regular basis. If you find your NK cell activity is low, and lifestyle changes are not significantly improving your immune function, please consult your healthcare professional.