The human immune system is an intricate network of organs, cells, and proteins that protects us from harmful pathogens like bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. As we go about our daily lives, our immune system comes into contact with countless microbes, some friendly and some potentially dangerous. Bolstering our natural immunity helps provide an extra layer of defense to keep us healthy.
Active immunity occurs when we are exposed to a pathogen, triggering our immune system to produce antibodies and memory cells that can quickly recognize and destroy the same pathogen if exposed again later. We can bolster active immunity naturally through exposure to diverse microbes and pathogens in our environment starting from childhood. We can also bolster immunity through vaccinations, which safely expose our immune system to weakened or dead pathogens, allowing it to develop memory without getting sick.
Passive immunity involves protection gained externally rather than produced by our own immune system. For example, infants receive passive immunity antibodies from their mother’s milk. As adults, we can bolster passive immunity by taking supplements and medications containing antibodies grown in a lab to target specific diseases.
No matter the source, having robust, flexible immunity primed to handle diverse microbial threats is key to staying healthy in a complex world full of potential dangers both old and new. Paying attention to lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, stress management, and sleep bolsters our natural immunity across the board.
If you feel your immune system needs an extra boost, the caring medical team at Optimized Hormones provides customized care plans utilizing cutting-edge therapies to optimize patients' immunity. With advanced testing, precision balancing of hormones and nutrients, and evidence-based practice, Optimized Hormones helps patients bolster immunity safely and effectively. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your immune health goals!