Immune System card in hands of Medical Doctor
Our immune system is responsible for protecting the body against infections and illnesses, and it is very sensitive to stress and overload. Weakened immune systems can make us more-susceptible to developing chronic illnesses or serious medical conditions, and they can also rob us of our energy and overall sense of well-being. Unfortunately, a lot of stress that we put on our immune system stems from bad habits that are considered to be perfectly-acceptable by society. Let’s take a look at a few everyday threats that can be quietly taking their toll on our health.
Alcohol
Did you know that alcohol consumption inhibits the production of white blood cells? White blood cells are the first line of defense against harmful microorganisms that invade our bodies and multiply. Consequently, cutting back on drinking can make it easier for the body to fight infections and disease.
Excessive Sugar Consumption
Sugar interferes with how cells in the body absorb water and nutrients, and excessive sugar levels in the blood can actually cause dehydration. Additionally, many pathogens thrive in sugar-rich environments. Consequently, too-much sugar can create the perfect conditions for a variety of diseases to take hold and spread while inhibiting the body’s capacity to respond and eliminate these threats at the same time.
Sleep-Deprivation
Going without sleep is almost a badge of honor that people wear in our busy, modern world. However, chronic sleep deprivation weakens the immune system and inhibits the body’s ability to defend and heal itself. Sleep deprivation is linked to longer recovery times from infections and illnesses, and it also increases the chances of developing cardiovascular disease, obesity and diabetes. This is in addition to all of the emotional and psychological strain that a lack of sleep can cause.
Improper Antibiotic Use
We all know that cases of incurable infections caused by super-bugs are reaching epidemic levels. However, even minor, common infections are taking longer to get under control as the over-use of antibiotics causes bacteria to mutate and become resistant. Unfortunately, we are exposed to antibiotics through foods that we eat and water we drink in addition to medications that we take. All of this places additional strain on our immune systems and creates opportunities for infections to take hold.
Exposure to Germs
Germs represent a double-edged sword. On one hand, we need to be exposed to them in order for the immune system to build up resistance. On the other hand, too-much exposure can lead to immune-system overload and make us more-susceptible to illness and infection. People who go to extreme lengths to avoid germs altogether are actually more-likely to get sick because the body hasn’t developed defenses against the pathogens in question. At the same time, people who don’t take basic precautions such as washing hands frequently or avoiding coming into contact with contaminated people, objects or surfaces, are more-likely to have weakened immune systems and get sick.
Lack of Oxygen
Another major cause of immune-system deficiencies relates to low levels of oxygen in the body. A lack of exercise and physical activity, spending too-much time indoors and ambient air pollution all inhibit the transportation of oxygenated blood to our cells. This forces the immune system to work harder to eliminate contaminants and potential threats, and the chronic strain has an impact on its overall resilience.
Remember that we will all be more-vulnerable to the effects of illness and disease in survival situations. Access to things that usually keep us healthy, such as good medical care, nutrition, rest and a sense of security will be limited, and our bodies will have to fight hard in order to compensate for these deficiencies. Consequently, having a strong immune system now can go a long way to minimize the chances of suffering from deficiencies later.
