The immune system is crucial for our overall health and well being. It helps protect us against unwanted pathogens, viruses, bacteria, and more. Having an immune system is essential for survival. The immune system spreads out throughout the body and is involved with multiple organs, including the kidneys. (1)
The Immune System and Impaired Renal Function
This system has a direct impact on the progression of impaired renal function. Pathogenic immune responses against renal autoantigens often target the kidneys. (2) Antigens are molecules capable of stimulating the immune system response. (3) When kidney function begins to fail, there is an increase in the susceptibility of contracting an infection. On top of this, failing kidney function also leads to an exaggerated inflammatory response, which may have detrimental effects. (2)
Why is this important?
Having a robust immune system is vital for everyone, even people with optimum health. Without this crucial system, we would be susceptible to attacks from viruses, bacteria, parasites, and more. Once the body produces an antibody, a copy of it remains in the body. When the antigen enters the body again, it is ready to fight it off. (1)
What to look out for:
- Frequent infections
- This is one of the most common signs of weakened immunity. Not only can these infections take longer to heal, but the person is also more likely to experience frequent ones. (4)
- Always tired or fatigued
- High-stress level
- Stomach issues
- Always have a cold
How can you naturally balance the immune system?
This can be achieved through several natural remedies. For example, taking certain supplements, like probiotics, prebiotics, and Vitamin C may help balance immunity.
Other ways include getting enough recommended sleep each night and also taking steps to reduce stress. To read more on natural ways to balance the immune system, click here.
Taking care of our immunity is important! Remember to always consult with your healthcare practitioner to find out which natural remedies may be best for you.
By Bridget Bagnell: Bridget Bagnell is a Marketing Associate at Kibow® Biotech Inc, the makers of Renadyl™. Bridget is a writer for The Hope and also for the official Renadyl™ blog. Aside from writing, she also works with Kibow Flora™ & Kibow Fortis® (pre and probiotic dietary supplements). She is a West Chester University graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Marketing. In her free time, Bridget enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends. Bridget can be contacted at bridget@kibowbiotech.com.
Citations
1: Newman, T. (2018, January 11). The immune system: Cells, tissues, function, and disease. Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320101
2: Kurts, C., Panzer, U., Anders, H.-J., & Rees, A. J. (2013, September 16). The immune system and kidney disease: basic concepts and clinical implications. Retrieved from https://www.nature.com/articles/nri3523
3: Technology Networks. (2018, August 30). Antigen vs Antibody – What Are the Differences? Retrieved from https://www.technologynetworks.com/immunology/articles/antigen-vs-antibody-what-are-the-differences-293550
4: Weak immune system: Symptoms and what to do. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324930#takeaway