The immune system comprises multiple organs, cells, organelles, and proteins that fight against infection. A multiplex system works by producing antibodies and raising the temperature. It stops invaders from getting into your body and processes healing when your body system goes through disease or injury. It is composed of two parts: innate and adaptive. The innate immune system is more general while the adaptive immune system is specialized or acquired. If it is a protective barrier then what makes it weaker? The answer is very simple certain human activities make it weaker. Human activities always cost nature which is similar to the weaker immune system. Here are 10 reasons for a weaker immune system
Lack of sleep:
A disrupted circadian rhythm negatively strikes the immune system. Adequate sleep is necessary for immune cell development and its function, as if as T-cells, B-cells, and natural killer cells (NK). These cells play a critical role against pathogens, and contamination and control several tumors. Sleep deprivation impairs their function. Inadequate sleep culminates in reduced antibody production, which helps in identifying and eliminating pathogens. Sleep disruption also triggers chronic inflammation, which makes the body weaker against infections.
Lack of exercise:
A lack of exercise can result in sluggish blood flow, making it difficult for immune cells to reach the target site efficiently. The lymphatic system plays an important role in the immune system. Reduced mobility influences the lymphatic system negatively, and mitigates the body’s ability to filter out invaders and toxins. Exercise increases the production of antioxidants, which helps body cells against oxidative stress. A sluggish lifestyle promotes the damage of oxidative stress. Lack of exercise also causes chronic low-grade inflammation, which weakens your immune system.
Obesity:
Obesity has been correlated to changes in the gut microbiota composition. The gut microbiome is vital to immune function, and an imbalance in this microbial population can have an impact on the immune system. According to research, in older persons, there is a proportional decline in immunological response with increased comorbidity (drop in T cell proliferation and IL-12 production and rise in IL-10 production in response to PHA stimulation). Obesity is again related to chronic low-grade inflammation.
Certain Medications:
Our generation is facing the problem of antibiotic resistance. According to researchers, we are entering. In the 5th generation of antibiotics. Antibiotics are helpful against diseases caused by bacteria. They help the body to fight against future threats but they do not work against viral infections. Antibiotic resistance makes the immune system weaker to fight against bacterial infection in the future. Some medications suppress IgG proteins, as it is the component of the immune system so it gets weaker. Immunosuppressant is a medicine designed to suppress the immune system to fight against some diseases and during organ transplant. Immuno-suppressants make the immune system weaker. Some medications pose side effects and have a deeper effect on the immune system. Sometimes immune system categorizes certain medicines, as they are invaders and cause allergies.
Less intake of Vitamin D:
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in regulating the immune system against autoimmune diseases. Vitamin D works to build our innate immunity. Whenever the body goes low on vitamin D, the risk of infection increases. Low vitamin D increases the risk of autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis etc. Vitamin D reduction increases the susceptibility to various infections. Less vitamin D intake promotes inflammation in the body.
Anxiety:
Anxiety and stress cause the body to release stress chemicals, particularly cortisol. Cortisol levels that are high enough may suppress the immune system. It has the potential to decrease the immunological system, making the body less effective at fighting infections. Anxiety always accompanies sleep disruption that causes certain immune weakening responses. Anxiety also accompanies a poor diet or excess consumption of harmful substances that again risk our immune system. Anxiety and stress reduce the efficacy of vaccines making the immune system weaker.
Increase Alcohol Consumption:
White blood cells or leukocytes are the main components of the immune system. They are generally called the soldiers of the immune system. Increased alcohol consumption damages white blood cells, making the body’s immune system weaker to fight off infections. Increased alcohol consumption can lead to chronic inflammation in the body, which slow down our immune response.
Environmental Factors:
Pollutants in the air may provoke an inflammatory reaction in the respiratory system that can have systemic consequences on the immune system. Chronic exposure to contaminants can cause chronic inflammation throughout the body, weakening the immune system and increasing the risk of chronic diseases. Environmental stressors like chronic stress, for instance, might have detrimental effects on the immune system. Cortisol and other stress hormones can impair immune function and make the body more susceptible to infection.
Poor Diet:
Nutrient deficiencies may originate from a diet low in essential nutrients such as vitamins (e.g., vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin A), minerals (e.g., zinc, selenium), and antioxidants. These nutrients are essential for defense mechanisms and serve the body in resisting infections. The immune response may be impeded if they are not present. Nutrient dearth can decrease the synthesis and function of immune cells such as white blood cells and antibodies. As a result, while exposed to infections, the body may be reluctant to build up an effective immunological response.
Less Macronutrients:
Immune cells possess an elevated metabolic rate and require a consistent supply of macronutrients to operate effectively. A lack of macronutrients can result in weaker immune cells, reduced immune cell activity, and a weaker ability to fight infections. Proteins serve as crucial for the making of enzymes, antibodies, and immune cell elements. Dietary protein deficiency may impede the body’s capacity to mount a successful defense against illness. A lack of protein can lead to a reduction in the quantity and efficiency of immune cells, increasing the body’s tolerance to infections.