We all know someone who never seems to get sick. Now scientists are discovering what makes some people’s immune systems stronger than others
Health
31 January 2023
Some people have a stronger immune system due to their sex, genetics and previous exposure to pathogens David Garcia/Shutterstock
WE ALL know that person. The one who rarely gets ill. The covid-19 pandemic highlighted that when it comes to catching circulating viruses and bacteria, we aren’t all equal: some people can resist being infected by a pathogen even after heavy exposure. Finding out why could help keep the rest of us in better health.
A person may resist an illness because they have recently been exposed to the pathogen that causes it and their body knows how to fight it off. This wasn’t the case for covid-19, as no one had encountered the coronavirus behind it before the end of 2019. Some people did seem to have some resistance to it, though, due to past infections with other, similar viruses – there are at least four coronaviruses that cause ordinary colds. In 2021, a few healthcare workers who had never tested positive for covid-19 despite heavy exposure were found to have had “abortive infections”, when the virus briefly replicates inside the nose and airway before being wiped out. Their immune systems were found to react to an enzyme used by the virus that causes covid-19 as well as the cold-causing coronaviruses.
People may have resistance to infections because of their genetic make-up. For covid-19, this has been investigated in relation to people’s risk of dying from or needing respiratory support due to their infection. Earlier this year, Johnathan Cooper-Knock at the University of Sheffield, UK, and his colleagues found more than 1300 genetic variants …
Source link The human body has a complex complex of biological systems that are often taken for granted. From the brain to the heart to the immune system, each of these crucial components works harmoniously with the others for the betterment of an individual’s health. However, some people may have immune systems that are naturally stronger than others. In this article, the reasons why some people may be blessed with a seemingly stronger immunity are discussed.
Our immune systems are made up of several different types of white blood cells and other components. These cells are responsible for recognizing and destroying foreign intruders, such as toxins, bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances. Having a well-functioning immune system is essential for good health as it acts as a defense against disease and illness.
Sometimes, a person may be naturally inclined to have a more robust immune system than others. This is due to a number of factors, including genetic predisposition, lifestyle choices, and environmental exposures.
Genetics play a major role in determining a person’s susceptibility to disease. For example, genetic mutations affecting the production of certain antibodies may lead to a stronger or weaker immune system, making some people more or less prone to developing specific illnesses.
Additionally, lifestyle choices can impact an individual’s immunity. Choosing to engage in healthy habits such as eating nutritious meals, exercising regularly, and managing stress have all been shown to benefit the immune system. On the other hand, smoking, drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, and leading a sedentary lifestyle are known to weaken a person’s immunity.
Lastly, environmental exposures can also increase or decrease an individual’s risk of illness. Excessive exposure to pollutants, toxins, and infectious agents can damage or weaken the effectiveness of immunity. On the other hand, keeping the body adequately nourished through a healthy diet and supplementing with vitamins and minerals can help boost immunity.
In conclusion, some individuals may have a naturally stronger immune system due to genetics, lifestyle choices, and exposures to their environment. However, by adopting healthy habits, an individual can improve the effectiveness of their immunity and reduce the risk of developing illnesses.
