What lowers immunity?

Although medicine and health sciences are now well developed, humans are still vulnerable to immune system disorders. This can result in an increased incidence of numerous diseases that threaten both physical and mental performance and can even lead to death. In addition to building immunity to certain harmful external factors through exposure to them, diet and lifestyle hygiene play an important role.

1. Nutritional deficiencies and immunity
2. Stress and stimulants versus immunity
3. Intestinal disorders and immunity
4. Sleep and immunity

Nutritional deficiencies and immunity

There are a number of nutrients known to affect the functioning of the immune system. The most important ones include proteins, certain vitamins and minerals. Protein malnutrition impairs the synthesis of substances that help the body not only fight potential infections, but also reduce the associated stress on the body.

Among vitamins, a special role is attributed to vitamins C and D3, while among minerals, zinc and selenium. Although these compounds are not needed by the body in the same quantities as proteins, they play an equally important role in shaping the immune response. Not only deficiencies, but also excessive consumption of highly processed foods rich in pro-inflammatory compounds, such as hydrogenated fats or glucose-fructose syrups, have a weakening effect on the immune system.

Stress and stimulants versus immunity

Stress is a significant factor that increases the body's susceptibility to diseases associated with weakened immunity. In the early stages, stress can mobilise the immune system, but prolonged exposure to a potentially harmful factor leads to an imbalance in the secretion of strengthening substances.

The use of stimulants is an additional factor that exacerbates the negative impact of stress on the body. The main ‘destroyers’ of the immune system are smoking and drinking alcohol, but also the abuse of opioids and illegal stimulants.

Intestinal disorders and immunity

One of the main components of the human immune system is the intestines and the bacteria that inhabit them. They determine the proper absorption of nutrients and protect the body from contact with certain potentially harmful substances or organisms.

In addition, intestinal bacteria secrete numerous compounds necessary for tissue protection and proper immune system function, which manifests itself, among other things, in a reduction in inflammation, susceptibility to certain infections, and even mood modulation.

Sleep and immunity

Just as important as diet and gut health, an equally important aspect of maintaining immunity is adequate length, regularity and quality of sleep. Disturbances in the body's night-time regeneration prevent many adaptive mechanisms from functioning, resulting in greater susceptibility to various types of disease. Too little sleep in uncomfortable conditions is known to exacerbate inflammation, which is often at the root of metabolic or neurodegenerative diseases, as well as infections.