In recent years, words such as antibodies , immune defenses and antigens are on the agenda, they are often confused with each other and used incorrectly.
So what are they really?
The immune system , in a nutshell, includes all those organs and cells whose job is to protect the body from external agents that can damage it. Imagine a large army ready to defend and fight everything that threatens its home, each having a well- defined and highly specialized role .
These external bodies (eg viruses and bacteria) that threaten the organism are called antigens and can come from the external environment or be harmful substances produced by the body. Whenever they threaten the body, the immune system is activated: the antigen is recognized, encircled and attacked.
Antibodies , produced by B lymphocytes in turn produced by the bone marrow, are proteins that circulate in the blood and that bind and destroy antigens.
B lymphocytes produce antibodies specific to the antigen that threatens the body, this is because the antigen-antibody binding is highly specific: that is, an antibody is produced specifically for that particular antigen.
What happens when an antigen comes into contact with the body?
When an antigen comes into contact with the organism , the first phase of antigen recognition is immediately activated, once identified, its identity is communicated to all the cells that are part of the immune system which must be activated to fight the antigen . The last stage involves the aggression and elimination of the agent that threatens the organism.
Low immune defenses
Having low immune defenses means having few white blood cells, which are essential for the immune system . In addition to this there are causes, defined as non-pathological, which reduce the immune defenses such as: stress , Vitamin B12 deficiency , unbalanced diet , antibiotics or seasonal changes .
Symptoms that occur with low immune defenses are frequent colds and sore throats , fatigue, anemia, dry skin and hair loss.
The number 1 ally of the immune system is Vitamin C. A very important antioxidant agent able to counteract free radicals, it also facilitates the absorption of iron .
Echinacea is also very useful for strengthening the immune system, a plant known by the Indians in North America and used for its many benefits, including its immunostimulating action. This flower is found inside Echinocaps which together with Elderberry is recommended as a natural remedy to assist in the treatment of cold symptoms ( stuffy nose, sore throat, cough and cold ).
The synergy of Vitamin C, Echinacea, Elderberry, zinc, copper and vitamins B6 and B12 improves the immune system by preventing infectious and inflammatory processes.