How does a poor diet weaken immunity?
Article Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Why you should care
Our immune system is our body's natural defense against infections and diseases. But did you know that the food we eat can either strengthen or weaken it? A poor diet can make you more vulnerable to illness, while a balanced diet boosts your ability to fight off infections. Learning how nutrition affects immunity is crucial for staying healthy and protecting yourself from diseases.
Answering the question… How does a poor diet weaken immunity?
A poor diet can harm your immune system in many ways. When we don’t get enough of key nutrients like vitamins A, C, D, and E, as well as minerals like zinc and selenium, our immune cells don't function properly. Diets high in sugar and processed foods also trigger inflammation, making it harder for the body to fight off infections.
How was the study done?
Researchers analyzed numerous studies to find out how diet impacts the immune system. They focused on how deficiencies in nutrients or a diet rich in processed foods affects the body’s defense system. The studies looked at how specific vitamins and minerals help immune cells work and how an unhealthy diet can weaken immunity.
What was discovered?
- Vitamin D deficiency increases infection risk by 40%, especially in children and older adults.
- Diets high in sugar can reduce white blood cells' ability to destroy pathogens by up to 50%.
- A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains improves immune function by 30%, boosting the body’s ability to fight off viral infections.
- People with higher levels of zinc showed a 40% stronger immune response compared to those with zinc deficiency.
Why does it matter?
Maintaining a healthy diet is essential for strong immunity. By making smarter food choices and including more vitamins and minerals in our meals, we can help our immune system work at its best. This can lead to fewer illnesses and a stronger defense against infections, ultimately leading to better health and quality of life.