In the age of COVID, health has emerged as a critical topic of discussion and concern. The novel coronavirus has showcased its ability to impact even the healthiest among us. Regardless of the pandemic context, enhancing our immune system is fundamental to our overall health.
Brian Davies, a naturopathic doctor and founder of Westcoast Integrative Health Inc., observes, “Health is currently regarded by many medical institutions as a condition of total physical, mental, and social well-being, rather than just the absence of illness.”
He emphasizes, “Health requires continuous effort and should not be taken for granted. This definition highlights the necessity for equilibrium in our physical, mental, and social-emotional health.”
Understanding the Immune System
To effectively support our immune system, it is important to grasp its functions. Essentially, the immune system safeguards us against harmful microorganisms and comprises two key components.
- Innate immunity: This is the immune defense we are born with, featuring physical barriers like the skin and specialized cells that swiftly attack invading pathogens, often triggering responses such as fever.
- Adaptive immunity: This aspect learns to respond to new threats. Upon encountering a foreign germ, it strives to eliminate it; although illness may occur initially, our immune cells remember the invader, facilitating an expedited defense upon re-exposure.
A robust immune system does not equate to an absence of illness. In fact, it is quite the opposite, particularly highlighted by our experiences with COVID-19 and its different viral consequences.
Symptoms Indicate Immune Activity
“Experiencing symptoms like fever, cough, and muscle aches signals that your immune system is actively combating an infection, rather than indicating the presence of the infection itself,” explains Ashley Stapleton, a naturopathic doctor based in North Vancouver.
“Being healthy doesn’t imply immunity from illness; rather, it means having the ability to efficiently combat pathogens when they arise,” Stapleton adds. “However, regardless of overall health, certain viruses like HIV present a challenge our immune systems still struggle to control.”
Nonetheless, the recent global health crisis has heightened awareness regarding self-care and well-being, serving as a significant alarm for many.
Ways to Support Your Immune System
Regardless of external circumstances, it remains wise to enhance our immune function. This support will vary, based on an individual’s unique biochemistry, genetics, and lifestyle history.
“A healthy lifestyle plays a crucial role in ensuring optimal immune health,” Davies states. Those who may need to rethink their lifestyle choices include individuals who:
- Consume excessive processed foods
- Struggle with sleep disturbances
- Experience prolonged emotional or physical stress
- Drink high amounts of alcohol
- Smoke
These issues contribute to stress on the body, impairing innate immunity and disrupting adaptive immune functions.
“Striking a healthy balance with moderate exercise, nutritious food focused on whole proteins, healthy fats, colorful fruits, and vegetables; consistent sleep routines; along with mindfulness practices, are key components to achieving optimal health,” Davies advises.
The Relationship Between Age and Immunity
As we grow older, our innate immunity diminishes and our body’s biochemical processes may become less efficient. However, it’s vital to assess our biological age rather than simply counting years.
“Biological age can now be objectively measured to evaluate our biochemical aging,” Davies explains. “If we determine that certain aspects, like immune cell activation, are lacking, targeted nutritional and lifestyle interventions can be employed to address these challenges.”
“Ultimately, it all circles back to lifestyle and dietary choices,” Davies concludes. “The more we invest in our health, the greater the returns.”
This article originally appeared in the April 2022 issue of Thewindowsclubs.
