Why is the Immune System Important for Our Health?

March 4, 2025 | Posted at 1:49 am | by Yash Gupta (Follow User)

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If we talk about the superhero of the human body, it is nothing but the immune system. We are saying this based on the findings of leading immunologists such as Dr. Kanury Rao because it is the shield that protects us from foreign substances that can cause infections and diseases. By having a strong immunity, you can keep your body safe from pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi. But it is important for several other reasons. To find out more, keep on reading this post.

How does our immune system work?

The major job of our immune system is to identify the harmful substances that enter the body from outside. In addition to this, it fights pathogens such as parasites, viruses, bacteria, etc., and removes them. You will be surprised to know that a solid immune system fights changing cells that can cause life-threatening diseases such as cancer.

When a harmful or foreign substance enters the body, the immune system locates it and induces the necessary responses. The first time when your body notices a harmful substance, it saves the information about that pathogen and prepares the body to fight against it.

What are the different types of immune systems?

According to Kanury Rao, below are the main types of immunity:

  • Innate: This immunity type has been available in our body since our birth. For instance, our skin can block foreign substances and germs by guarding it. This is specifically important to prevent any danger or damage.
  • Adaptive: You develop adaptive immunity with time when you come in contact with various substances. In many cases, you also build adaptive immunity through vaccines.
  • Passive: This immunity is for a shorter duration only because your body borrows it. For instance, small babies get passive immunity from their mothers’ milk.

What are the different parts of our immune system?

The human immune system is an intricate system made of various cells and organs. Below is the detailed information about the same:

  • White blood cells or WBC: This is one of the most crucial parts of the immune system as they are acknowledged for finding, targeting, and destroying viruses and bacteria in our body. Our body has different cells and each of them has a different mission.
  • Lymph nodes: These are nothing but small glands that are mainly used to destroy pathogens and germs and prevent further spread. Lymph nodes have small immune cells to replicate the WBC and fight the harmful substances.
  • Spleen: When it comes to the role, the spleen is responsible for storing WBC and filtering the blood by separating and removing damaged and old red blood cells or RBC.
  • Adenoids and tonsils: You will find these in your throat and nasal passages. They trap pathogens and other harmful substances as soon as they try to enter your body.
  • Thymus: These are situated in the upper part of the chest. Thymus typically helps WBC to get matured so they can know how to find and target invaders.
  • Bone marrow: According to Dr. Kanury Rao, bone marrow can make countless blood cells including WBC, RBC, and plasma cells. By releasing them into your bloodstream, your immune system can be strengthened.
  • Mucous membranes, skin, and others: Human skin conceals some natural oils and WBCs needed to destroy viruses, pathogens, etc. trying to enter via the skin. Mucous membranes, on the other hand, offer a protective shield in the urinary, digestive, and reproductive tracts. You must have noticed that nose hair captures germs and sweat, tears, and saliva offers a great defense against viruses.
  • Bowel and stomach: You may or may not know but our stomach consists of several acids and good bacteria. They both recognize and kill the harmful bacteria that can affect your bowels and overall health.

What factors affect the immune system?

Several factors are there that suppress the ability of our immune system. Some of them have been mentioned below:

  • Old age is one of the leading reasons for a weak immune system. This is because our body produces reduced levels of immune cells in the bone marrow and thymus when it grows. As a result, the functions of our immune system will be declined.
  • When we are more exposed to pollution, smoke, or consume excessive alcohol, the immune system starts to be affected.
  • Diet is quite an important aspect to strengthen the immune system. When the diet lacks multivitamins, minerals, and other necessary nutrients, immunity becomes weak.
  • If you are overweight, the chances are higher that the fat tissues will encourage the inflammatory process that can result in impaired WBC. Hence, correct body weight is a must.

To sum it up!

Furthermore, mental stress, rest and sleep deficiency, and chronic illnesses can affect your immune system and its responses – Kanury Rao. Thus, you must avoid smoking and alcohol, wash your hands before and after eating, opt for a balanced diet, stay active, and maintain the right weight to boost your immune system. Lastly, get in touch with your immunologist for further information and medical assistance.