Main Function
The main function of the immune system is to protect the body from infection, harmful substances, germs, allergens, toxins and malignant cells. It's a complex network of organs, cells, and proteins that work together to keep you healthy. Autoimmunity is when a body's immune system mistakenly targets the normal cells.
How it Works
The immune system works closely with the lymphatic system. Lymph nodes and the spleen produce cells enabling the body to respond to foreign invaders by creating antibodies. A unique feature is its ability to recognize what is not consistent with a person's genetic makeup and what is foreign. A person can have natural immunity meaning they are born with immunity to a specific condition. Acquired immunity is when one gets an illness, the body responds with antibodies and recovers.
Cause of Autoimmunity
Food choices, infections, hormone imbalance, toxins, stress and gut health are foundations for autoimmunity. These can be the cause and addressing them can be the solution. Also, leaky gut which is increased intestinal permeability leads to various autoimmune conditions. This allows food particles and bacteria to penetrate the intestinal wall into the bloodstream, causing systemic inflammation, and igniting autoimmune reactions. Additionally, cellular regulation within the immune modulating system can function improperly causing an increased immune response.
Common Problems
Some problems are irritable bowel, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's, rheumatoid arthritis, hypo/hyper- thyroidism, lupus/systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis and psoriasis.