Immunity: Make Your Body Strong Inside Out!

We’re sure you have heard a lot about immunity, especially in recent times. Drinking kadha and eating superfoods has become a norm. But do you know how your immune system really works? It is made up of different cells, organs and tissues that work along with each other to provide you with immunity. This way, it protects your body from harmful pathogens. These include bacteria, fungi, viruses and toxins released by these pathogens. To have a better understanding of immunity, read on.

What is immunity?

Immunity is the ability of your body to fight against harmful infections. When germs like bacteria and virus enter your body, they multiply and attack your immune system. This is known as an infection. In response, your immune system defends your body by fighting these harmful germs.

Now that you have an idea of what is immunity, learn about the different parts that constitute an immune system.

• Skin: Prevents the entry of germs in your body
• White blood cells: Fights germs
• Mucous membranes: Traps and attacks germs
• Tissues and organs of the lymph system: Stores and produces white blood cells

What are the different types of immunity?

There are main three types of immunity.

Innate immunity: As the name suggests, it is a natural type of protection present from the time of your birth. It is also the first line of defense. This immunity includes components like mucous membranes and skin. When any harmful substance tries invading your body, this defense mechanism attacks and prevents them from entering it. Mucous membranes refer to the moist lining found on the inner sides of certain body cavities and organs. Both skin and mucous membranes contain chemicals and specific cells that are capable of destroying germs and other toxins.Active immunity: Another name for this type of immunity is adaptive immunity. This happens when you are infected by a pathogen or vaccinated. Antibodies are formed in your body as a reaction. This is a long-lasting immunity that can provide you protection throughout your life.Passive immunity: In this type of immunity, you receive antibodies for a specific disease instead of your body’s immune system producing them on its own. The best example of this immunity is the transfer of antibodies from a mother to her baby. Amongst all the three types of immunity, passive immunity can last only for a few months or weeks. However, it gives you protection instantly.

How immunity works

It is very easy to understand how immunity works. As mentioned earlier, your immune system identifies foreign substances called antigens when they enter your body. The moment your body recognizes it as foreign, it attacks the antigen. So, an immune response is generated. This results in the formation of antibodies that are capable of weakening and destroying antigens. In response to this, your body also produces other cells to fight this antigen. The best part about your immune system is that it remembers the antigen when it attacks your body the second time. This time the body will produce the right antibodies so that you do not fall ill. This is how immunity works and you stay healthy.

What are the types of immunodeficiency diseases that can affect you?

While the immune system strives to protect you from germs, it can become weak due to many reasons. This may result in immune deficiency disorders. Here, your body is prone to different infections. Different types of immunity diseases that can affect your health include:

• Severe combined immune deficiency disorder (SCID)
• Common variable immune deficiency disorder (CVID)
• Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)
• Drug-induced immune deficiency

How to boost immunity?

While there are many immunity boosters that can increase your immunity, you can follow these natural tips to strengthen your immunity:

Sleep well as irregular sleeping patterns can make you fall sick

Have wholesome nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds as these contain antioxidants capable of fighting pathogens

Have healthy fats as these can decrease inflammation in the body

Avoid added sugars as these can cause problems like obesity

Drink at least 2 liters of water daily so that your body remains hydrated

Exercise regularly to help your immune cells to regenerate regularly

There are certain foods that act as immunity boosters, some of which are given below:

• Citrus fruits
• Red bell peppers
• Broccoli
• Ginger
• Garlic
• Spinach
• Turmeric

Now that you know what is immunity, the various types of immunity, and how to boost immunity, you can take proper care of your health. Having a nutritious diet and leading an active lifestyle are a few ways to boost your immune system. The articles under this section will also help you take the right measures to improve your immunity.

With Bajaj Finserv Health, you have all the resources you need to boost your immunity. You can book a safe medical consultation online and speak to doctors about any issues you face. You can also book lab tests with sample collection from home and sign up for Aarogya Care health plans. These plans combine insurance with benefits like preventive check-ups and free doctor consultations to help you put your health first.