STOP INVADERS in their tracks BY BRIANNA TRAN "Whenever the immune system deals successfully with an infection, it emerges from the experience stronger and better able to nfront similar threats in the future. Our immune system develops in combat. If, at the first sign of infection, you always jump in with antibiotics, you do not give the immune system a chance to grow stronger." About 70 percent of immune function is found in the gut, so this area has the biggest challenge to defend against invaders that make it through. Taking care of your gut therefore takes care of your immune system, so having probiotics, prebiotics and gut-specific antimicrobial herbs keeps your intestinal tissues and gut flora in good order. HERE'S A WINTER CHECKLIST TO SUPPORT YOUR IMMUNITY: Wash your hands with soap frequently, especially before eating and when arriving home - Andrew Weil Y; our immune system is a complex network that protects your body from harmful influences. In winter 2 Non-specific resistance Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing The second line of defence is a group of cells, tissues and organs that work together to protect your body. If invaders bypass your body's first lines of defence, your body provides a constant surveillance team of white blood cells which seek out and destroy disease-causing invaders. More often than not, these immune cells will defeat microbes before they even particularly, you need a fully functioning immune system to stay healthy, because bacteria and viruses are common in heated and unventilated indoor spaces. Eat well. Choose nourishing stews and soups over processed foods Sweets as sugars suppress your immune system Did you know that your body can tell if an invader has entered it even if you don't realise it? An invader could be anything from a virus, bacteria, parasite or fungi, to harmful environmental substances. Once the Get a restful sleep, because this is when the cause a sniffle! immune system bolsters and revitalises itself Your body needs healthy circulation to quickly deliver immune cells to the site of infection or inflammation Once they reach the infected area, the immune cells overcome invaders and invader gets in, your immune system uses a number of different tactics -its lines of defence to neutralise Keep warm Drink enough water to help your systems to function well destroy them by releasing enzymes and remove it. 1 Specific resistance Physical and chemical barriers The third line of defence is specific resistance, a system that relies on antigens. An antigen is a toxin or other foreign substance which creates an immune response in your body by producing antibodies. Antibodies move through your blood to the invasion site, and attack and dispose of invaders Provide your body with adequate nutrients. Include herbs and immune- The protective outer layer of your skin is one of the first lines of defence to shield your entire body from attack Your skin's surface is naturally acidic to prevent invaders from attaching and causing infections. boosting supplements like vitamin C, zinc, probiotics, olive leaf and echinacea. Your respiratory system provides another easy entry for invasion Fortunately for you, the mucus membranes that line your nose, throat and lungs trap invaders from the air you breathe. Brianna Tran is a natural health and nutrition researcher with a degree in Communication Studies. Your immune system attacks invaders from all angles, but it needs help to stay strong all the time. 24 HEALTH 200O JUNE 2019 Always read the label and take as directed. If symptoms persist, consult your healthcare professional.