Blog — Immune system

Vitamin C and immunity are an iconic duo - and vitamin C is the ultimate ally when it comes to keeping your immune system fighting fit. This essential nutrient plays a key role in protecting your body against illness and keeping you feeling your best year-round. But how does it actually work, and what’s the best way to ensure you’re getting enough? Is diet alone going to cut it when it comes to keeping colds and flu at bay? Let’s explore the answers to these questions and more as we learn how vitamin C works and the best ways to...

Often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin," vitamin D is essential for various bodily functions, particularly for maintaining a robust immune system. However, with limited sunshine, frequent rain, and increased darkness during the winter months, our bodies have fewer opportunities to produce this crucial vitamin. So, how can we ensure we get the necessary amounts of vitamin D in winter? And how do we know if we're getting enough? Read on to discover why vitamin D is vital for immune function, how it's produced in the body, the best sources of vitamin D, the effectiveness of supplements, and more about...

What is vitamin D deficiency? Insufficient levels of vitamin D in your body indicate a deficiency, which primarily affects bone and muscle health. Vitamin D is crucial for normal bone development and maintenance, and also supports the nervous, musculoskeletal, and immune systems. You can get vitamin D in a variety of ways, including: Exposure to sunlight on your skin may not be sufficient for people with darker skin tones or older individuals to obtain adequate vitamin D. Additionally, geographical location can limit sunlight exposure necessary for vitamin D synthesis. Vitamin D can also be obtained through dietary sources and supplements....

What Is Inflammation? Inflammation is a complex biological response triggered by the body's immune system in response to harmful stimuli, such as pathogens, damaged cells, or irritants. It is a crucial defence mechanism aimed at protecting the body and promoting healing. When the body detects an injury or threat, white blood cells, particularly leukocytes, along with various signalling molecules and proteins, are mobilised to the affected area. These immune cells help to neutralise and remove the harmful agents, repair damaged tissue, and initiate the healing process. The inflammatory response typically involves several interconnected processes: Vasodilation and Increased Permeability: Blood vessels...