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What is immunity?

It is common knowledge that having a robust immune system offers protection against viruses and diseases, whereas a weak immune system can make you susceptible to catching a cold, or worse. But what exactly is it, and how does it work? Let’s take a closer look at how to boost your immunity effectively, shall we?

The definition of immunity

To put it simply, immunity is defined as the human body's ability to resist toxins, infections, and other harmful substances or microorganisms through sensitised white blood cells or other antibodies. Think of it as your body’s own personal defense system. If it wasn’t for your immunity, a number of different bacterias, viruses and even fungi could attack or infect your body at will. But thanks to immunity, that’s not the case.

Different types of immunity

There are 4 different types of immunity. These include:

  • Innate immunity – Our innate immunity is what we are born with. It varies in strength for different individuals; some people are born with a strong immune system, while some are born with a weak immune system.
  • Adaptive immunity – (also known as acquired immunity) protects our bodies against harmful infections based on past “experiences”. In other words, adaptive immunity ensures that you will not be susceptible to the same infection - at least, for a short period of time - after recovery.
  • Passive immunity – (also known as borrowed immunity) is a temporary form of immunity, and refers to a type of immunity that is gained from another person. For example, children gaining temporary immunity from their mothers through breast milk.
  • Immunizations – refers to the process in which our bodies can be made immune to specific viruses, infections or diseases - most commonly, through the administration of a vaccine

The purpose and functions of the immune system

The main function of the immune system is to protect you from harmful microorganisms that can cause infections. However, it doesn’t just stop at prevention. If you do get sick, your immune system, by default, becomes your body’s first line of defence, and will fight the infection by working to minimise the amount of damage done to your body. A healthy immune system will be able to fight off most infections. A weakened immune system, on the other hand, can make you prone to illnesses which can last for longer, and symptoms that are more severe.

How to boost your immunity

A healthy lifestyle is the most effective way on how boost your immunity. As such, it’s always a good idea to ensure that you look after your immunity on a daily basis. Below, you will find a few tips on how to keep your body healthy and strong through the performance of everyday activities1. It is also important for you to seek consultation with a doctor if you are worried that your immunity is potentially compromised.

  • Eat a balanced diet which includes lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. A healthy diet will provide your body with an adequate intake of the essential vitamins and minerals it needs to function properly.
  • If you are not sure as to whether or not you are getting a sufficient intake of vitamins and minerals in your diet, consider adding a supplement like Redoxon®, which can help to strengthen your immune system2.
  • Get regular exercise3. This will help you to reduce stress - which weakens your immune system - and improve blood circulation, allowing white blood cells to identify and attack cells that are affected by an infection or disease
Woman playing with her daughter and throwing her into the air
  • Take steps to reduce stress. If you find that you are under persistent pressure, you can try to incorporate the use of meditation techniques, or yoga.
  • Get quality sleep. Rest allows your body to regenerate is one of the way on how to boost immunity.
  • Maintain a healthy weight. People who are overweight suffer from weakened immune function, which can put them at a higher risk of catching illnesses 4.
  • Get proactive to avoid infections. Wash your hands thoroughly and regularly. Avoid sharing personal items if you’re sharing the same space as a sick person.
    Alternatively, make sure that you cook meat properly and thoroughly before eating.
  • Don’t smoke. Tobacco smoking is harmful to your health and can weaken your immune system against diseases.
  • Limit alcohol consumption. Alcohol can damage your immune response.

References:

  1. How to prevent infections. Harvard Medical School, 2016. (Accessed 10/02/2020, at https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/how-to-prevent-infections.)
  2. Gombart AF, Pierre A, Maggini S. A Review of Micronutrients and the Immune System-Working in Harmony to Reduce the Risk of Infection. Nutrients 2020;12.
  3. Nieman DC, Wentz LM, The Compelling Link Between Physical Activity and the Body’s Defense System, Journal of Sport and Health Science, vol 8, issue 3, May 2019, p 201-217
  4. Andersen CJ, Murphy KE, Fernandez ML, Impact of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome on Immunity, ADVANCES IN NUTRITION, Volume 7, Issue 1, January 2016, Pages 66–75, https://doi.org/10.3945/an.115.010207


How Vitamin and Minerals
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Your Immunity

 

 

Living in a fast-paced world that includes on-the-go fast food and pre-cooked meals, it can sometimes be challenging to consume an adequate amount of fruits and vegetables daily to provide our body with the essential vitamins and minerals it needs to fully support the body functions. What’s worse, an inadequate intake of vitamins and minerals can instead negatively affect your overall health. That’s where Redoxon® comes in. Our range of vitamin and mineral products are designed to help support your good health.

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You need to look after your body health. Even though it may not feel like it, your body works 24 hours a day to ensure optimal health. Just as a plant needs water and sunlight, your body needs regular nourishment to support overall well-being.

Combined with a healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical exercise and a healthy diet, supplements like Redoxon® provide the foundation
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Build Your Immunity

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