How does the immune system work?

During COVID and also now during a flu wave, there is a lot of talk about your immune system. But what is yourimmune system? And how does the immune system work? And finally, what is the effect ofsupplements, such as vitamin pills, on your immune system? We will explore that and much more here.

What is the immune system?

Your immune system is your body's castle. It keeps out the bacteria and viruses and keeps your cells and organs healthy. The immune system consists of 2 important parts. First, you have the white blood cells. These attack the bacteria and viruses.

The second part ensures that your body remembers bacteria and viruses, so that it can recognize and attack them faster next time. When the immune system has completed these tasks, it is important that it is slowed down and that no tissue damage occurs.

How can you strengthen your immune system?

1. Sleep:

Good sleep is extremely important. You probably recognize that after a few busy days with little sleep and a lot of stress you feel a bit flu-like. Make sure you get at least 8 hours of sleep per night.

2. Food:

Eat sufficient fiber (between 30 and 40 grams daily), proteins (0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight) and nuts (containing many minerals such as pistachios, hazelnuts and walnuts).

3. Drink water:

This is important for the removal of bacteria and viruses. Therefore, drink 2 liters of water per day.

4. Supplement Vitamin C:

The current range of fruit and vegetables has been bred to be sweeter, but contain less and less vitamin C. You can easily supplement this. Vitamin C contributes to your resistance as it helps to form white blood cells.

5. Supplement Vitamin D:

In the Netherlands we have too little sun for many months. That is why it is important to supplement with vitamin D during those months. Vitamin D is converted into white blood cells by your body.

6. Vitamin B6 supplementation:

If you are vegetarian, there is a chance that you have a vitamin B6 deficient. This causes you to produce fewer white blood cells. That is why it is important for vegetarians and vegans to also supplement with vitamin B6.

7. Drink the Cupplement immunity blend

This delicious coffee has been added to the vitamins mentioned above plus a number of minerals that are essential for your immune system. With 1 cup of coffee you get 88% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of these vitamins.