Unlike fine wines, people don't always get better with age. Some people age gracefully while others unfortunately look much older than their years. How a person ages depends on many factors including genetics and lifestyle choices.
As of yet, no miracle pill has been developed that can stop the effects of aging. And as with most body parts, the effectiveness of the immune system naturally will begin to decline with age. While this may not be avoidable, there may be ways to help boost the immune system as it ages.
How the Immune System Changes with Age
Here are the most notable changes that occur within the immune system as it begins the aging process.
Skin
The skin is actually the immune system's first line of defense. It keeps harmful bacteria from getting inside our bodies. Young skin is very resilient. However as we get older, the connective tissues beneath the skin start to break apart. Skin loses its elasticity and becomes thinner and as a result, it becomes more prone to damage. That's when infections can set in.
Thymus
This organ is very active during youth, producing with alarming speed new T-cells, antibodies and the other chemicals the immune system relies on. Around puberty, the immune system is almost completely developed and ready to protect against infection and disease. As T-cells encounter various sources of infection, they develop immune responses to fight the infection. Those T-cells are also capable of remembering that response.
Since few new T-cells are produced after adulthood, most of those that exist will have already transitioned into a memory cell. If a new type of infection is introduced to the body later in life, there aren't any "native" T-cells available to develop a new immune response. The immune system is therefore slow to react if it's able to react at all.
Lymph Glands
Another change takes place in the lymph glands. As a person ages, the lymph glands do not stop producing lymphocytes, an important component in the body's ability to produce infection-fighting antibodies. However, changes can occur in their configuration which can affect how these important cells react to infection.
Autoimmune disease is another change believed to be age-related. Over time, the makeup of cells can change due to the oxidative damage caused by free radicals and other reasons. When cells change, the immune system no longer recognizes these modified cells as belonging to the body. The immune system then begins to produce autoantibodies which are antibodies to one or more proteins native to the body. Organs to which these proteins are associated begin to become attacked. In other words, the body begins to attack itself, which is what happens with rheumatoid arthritis.
Is help available?
As mentioned above, it's still unclear whether there is any way to keep the effects of aging from impacting the immune system. But there are ways older individuals may be able to give their immune systems a boost.
Shots
The Pheumococcal vaccine can protect the elderly from approximately 23 forms of pneumococcus bacterium. Bacterial pneumonia can cause death in older people which it's why revaccination is recommended, especially for high-risk individuals. An annual flu shot can help protect against new strains of influenza virus. And staying current with tetanus shots can help protect against this potentially deadly bacterial infection which often (unknowingly) penetrates broken skin.
Changing diet/supplementation
Antioxidants help to neutralize free radicals, possibly diminishing the amount of cell damage they do to skin and organs. Adding brightly colored fruits and vegetables, especially those loaded with Vitamin A, E and C, to the diet is the best way to get antioxidants inside so they can go to work. If dietary change is difficult, try taking vitamin and antioxidant supplements.
Eliminating bad habits
It's important to quit smoking because smoking can increase the risks of developing infectious diseases like pneumonia. Cutting back on your consumption of alcoholic beverages is also wise.
Maintaining social schedules
Depression is thought to be linked to a depressed immune system. Unfortunately, because of health reasons, death of a spouse, or immobility, many elderly spend too much time alone which can lead to depression.
Taking herbal supplements
You probably have seen many claims by herbal supplement companies about products that help boost the immune system. One of the better ones we have read about is Immunitril(tm). Immunitril(tm) combines many of the more promising ingredients reputed to help support the immune system. This new herbal supplement may help give your aging immune system a much needed boost during the winter season. You can find it at many of the better online stores and etailers like www.Amazon.com and www.BODeStore.com.
Disclaimer: This article is for information only. It is not medical advice. Always consult with a health care professional before taking health or food supplements.
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About the Author:| Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on a health or fitness program. |
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