As a male, have you ever wondered about your immune response system? Or is it not something that ever really crosses your mind? Let’s take a look at what exactly the male immune response system is, what does it mean to males, as well as point out some differences between females and males and sex hormones, ways to strengthen the immune system and why you should keep an eye on your immune system.

Healthy Lifestyle

One of your first lines of defence is to lead a healthy lifestyle filled with whole foods, fruits and vegetables, exercising (light or vigorous), regular doctor check-ups and listening to your body. If you drink alcohol, drink in moderation, don’t smoke, hydrate well and aim for seven-to-eight hours of sleep a day.

Here are some foods you can eat to get those powerful immune boosters into your body:
-Citrus fruits: Grapefruit, oranges, lemons and limes
-Kiwi
-Bell peppers
-Garlic
-Ginger
-Spinach
-Almonds
-Turmeric
-Green tea

Vitamins B6, B12, C and E are strong allies nutritional supplements that can boost your immune system.

As men age, it is integral to keep an eye on your health and immune system as the immune response capability becomes reduced. Good hygiene is always at the forefront of a healthy immune system. It only hinders you and your body to make it work harder than it has to by not practising good hygiene. Washing your hands with soap and water, covering your mouth when you sneeze and cough and keep your phone screens and keyboards clean on a daily basis.

Exercise is a pillar and symbol of health and healthy living. It improves cardiovascular health, bones and muscles healthy, lowers blood pressure and helps control and manage body weight.

Differences Between Males and Females

Males have one X chromosome and one Y. Females have two X chromosomes.

It’s no secret males and females are vastly different in energy consumption and nutritional requirements, as both genders, while closely related, are discernably different. Men and women deal with infections much differently and have different immune system responses due to factors like estrogen and hormones.

Estrogen can activate cells involved with antiviral responses while testosterone suppresses inflammation. Immune responses to environmental factors like vaccinations are also sex-biased. Immunity and sex are intricately linked.

Immune response is the body’s response in reaction to its immune system being activated. The immune system is a highly intricate circulating system. Some main parts of our immune system are white blood cells, antibodies and complement system, to name a few.

Our bodies also have other unique ways to defend themselves against microbes and keep us healthy and thriving, such as skin, lungs and digestive tract. Fever is also an immune response system and can act as a trigger for the body’s repair process.

It’s Okay to Speak Out

While we are seeing a shift, it is still a problematic society for men and perceived toughness. It’s seen as men being weak if they don’t go to work when sick, go for regular check-ups with their doctor, or seek more care after diagnoses. It can lead to more than just sickness, as it can be a trickle-down effect and affect mental health and other anxieties about not speak out.

All in all, our immune systems are pretty great at keeping us alive. Men, please keep on top of your health and your immune system.