A general practitioner spoke about the causes of decreased immunity

The immune system is essential for the normal functioning of the body. It is especially important to talk about it in the cold season, when the risk of infectious diseases increases. Anastasia Stolnaya, a therapist at SberZdorovye medical company, told Izvestia on December 22 what types of immunity exist, why it is declining and how to strengthen it.

"Immunity is a complex and well-coordinated system with the help of which the human body defends itself against bacteria, viruses and foreign agents. It consists of a network of cells, tissues and organs that work together to identify and neutralize dangerous microorganisms. Immunity is innate and acquired. It is also divided into natural and artificial," she explained.

To the causes of reduced immunity can be attributed the presence of diseases such as diabetes, AIDS, as well as oncohematologic diseases, the doctor specified.

"If you suspect the development of an immunodeficiency state, for example, with repeated occurrence of bacterial infections during the year, pneumonias, abscesses, you should consult a doctor. It is important to note that acute respiratory viral infections in adults, as a rule, are not a sign of reduced immunity. Such means as vitamin C and wearing warm socks will not help in strengthening and maintaining immunity. For this purpose it is necessary to follow some rules: balanced diet, physical activity, quality sleep, vaccination", - said the expert.

It is important, she said, to provide the body with the necessary vitamins and trace elements - they are most effectively assimilated when taken with food. It is worth giving preference to the use of proteins, including fish, lean meat and poultry, as well as dairy and whole-grain products, a variety of vegetables, fruits, seeds and nuts. The quality of sleep also affects the general state of health - on average, an adult needs seven to eight hours of nightly rest.

Strengthening the immune system contributes and regular physical activity - an adult is recommended to engage in sports of moderate intensity of at least 150 minutes a week. Abandoning bad habits and minimizing stress factors are also important elements for the formation of protective properties of the body.

"Also a reliable way to form immunity and prevent diseases is vaccination - you should make a plan for the introduction of vaccinations together with a doctor. This can be done not only face-to-face, but also online with the help of telemedicine services. It is worth noting that it is important for patients with chronic diseases to be under the constant supervision of a doctor," summarized Anastasia Stolnaya.

In November, Daria Rusanova, a nutritionist, told about what products strengthen immunity and protect against acute respiratory viral infections. The doctor advised to consume foods with prebiotics - fruits, vegetables, herbs, legumes, mushrooms and whole grain products.