What is the immune system?
Within our bodies exists an amazing mechanism called "The Immune System" developed to constantly defend us against the millions of bacteria, microbes, viruses, toxins and parasites that would overtake us without such protection.

The immune system consists of a body-wide network of cells and organs that defends us against attack from these foreign invaders. It provides an amazing constellation of responses that can adapt to optimize the response to unwanted intruders.

What is the immune system's function?
While there is a high degree of interconnectivity between its components, the immune system can be loosely divided into two subsystems, the innate and the adaptive immune systems. Both system work together to provide protection to keep us healthy.

The innate immune system provides a non-specific response to pathogens with immediate but short-live action. The adaptive immune system is much more specific, but takes longer to activate. The adaptive immune also features immunological memory, and can respond more quickly and with greater specificity to similar threats in the future.

What factors affect the immune system?
Effective immune system function is generally recognized as fundamental to the maintenance of good health. When an otherwise healthy immune system is subjected to daily challenges such as stress and poor nutrition, optimal function may be difficult to maintain. Accordingly, a strategy to support immune system function in the context of maintaining good health is important.

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