Throughout our lives, the immune system protects a person from the widest range of diseases, from the common cold to cancer. Moreover, according to scientists, it can even slow down the aging process. We have investigated the mechanisms of this process and found out how one can truly support their body. According to materials published in the scientific journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the immune system comprises about two trillion cells, whose total weight exceeds a kilogram. These cells not only constantly fight against foreign agents invading our bodies but also monitor the condition of other cells, suppressing their abnormal functioning. In the media, one often encounters diametrically opposed advice: some insist on the need to “strengthen” immunity, while others advise focusing on reducing inflammatory processes. At first glance, this can cause confusion. It is impossible to enhance immunity as a whole because it possesses the property of self-regulation, and inflammation itself signals that the immune system is active. Dietary supplements (DSLs) have no effect on this process. Scientific data suggest that the situation is not so simple. Nevertheless, researchers are delving deeper every day into the principles of how the immune system works, as well as how our lifestyle and modern medical achievements help maintain its effectiveness as we age. The optimal balance for health is when the immune system is activated only in the face of immediate threat. If it is in constant combat readiness, it can harm the body. Problems begin with the development of chronic inflammation, which is the continuous activity of the immune system. A review in the journal Nature Reviews Cardiology emphasizes that with age, inflammatory markers increase, which correlates with the development of cardiac ailments, cancer, dementia, and other diseases. The immune system seeks out damaged cells, aging cells, and those that could potentially become malignant. Chronic inflammation exhausts the immune system, making it less effective at neutralizing cancer cells. Simultaneously, the aging cells themselves can release substances that provoke inflammation, further undermining the body’s defenses. This forms a vicious cycle that accelerates aging. Autoimmune disorders (when the immune system begins to attack its own tissues), often manifesting with age, are a clear example of immune imbalance and excessively high levels of prolonged inflammation. The task of scientists is to achieve the ideal tuning of the immune system so that it is neither overly passive nor overactive. This is why creating a universal remedy to support immunity remains an unattainable goal at this stage. Although it is possible to adjust the immune system’s function to some extent to achieve maximum benefit. For example, adipose tissue can exacerbate chronic inflammation. Scientists have not yet reached a consensus on whether this reaction is related to the fat cells themselves or the immune cells surrounding them, but maintaining a normal weight helps slow down this process and has a positive effect on long-term health. Furthermore, active muscles release substances that help reduce inflammation. This means that physical activity is one of the simplest and most effective ways to maintain immune function. Workouts are beneficial, but equally important is avoiding prolonged static posture throughout the day. It is better to take short breaks for activity every hour than to sit still all day, compensating only with an evening walk. Sitting to Death: Why Staying Seated is Dangerous The Importance of Protection Against Infections According to a publication in the journal Science, adults whose childhood coincided with a period of high risk of infectious diseases (i.e., they were significantly threatened by infection but survived) also experience increased mortality in old age. This suggests that the inflammatory response caused by fighting infections can increase the likelihood of developing diseases over the years. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is one of the infections closely linked to aging. It is widespread and transmitted to most people through bodily fluids. The virus permanently remains in the body and can reactivate during periods of weakened immunity (e.g., with HIV, chemotherapy, or after organ transplantation). There is evidence that persistent CMV accelerates age-related changes in the immune system. Since the virus is not eliminated from the body, the immune system constantly expends resources fighting it, weakening its other functions. A study conducted in California showed that individuals with the highest titer of anti-CMV antibodies in their blood were more likely to die in the next decade compared to those with lower antibody levels. Unfortunately, completely avoiding cytomegalovirus is difficult. However, general preventive measures that help avoid other infections can contribute to slowing down aging. Strive to get vaccinated, wash your hands regularly, and be careful when preparing food. Moreover, a healthy oral cavity helps control harmful bacteria, and research shows that this can reduce the risk of cardiovascular pathologies and even slow down processes associated with cognitive decline. In an article in the publication Science Focus, scientists highlight several areas that may change our perception of immunity in the future: Thymus regeneration—the organ responsible for producing critically important T-cells. It atrophies with age, and researchers are looking for ways to restore it using stem cells, hormonal drugs, and gene therapy. Immune system “reboot”—concepts including, for example, bone marrow transplantation, aim to eliminate old or malfunctioning immune cells to give the system a “second start.” Targeted immunotherapy—the development of antibodies that selectively destroy problematic cells and inflammatory molecules, thereby restoring immune balance. Main Conclusion The state of the immune system is directly related to the aging process. With the passage of time, chronic inflammation accumulates, which weakens immunity and accelerates aging, increasing the risks of heart disease, dementia, and cancer. Immunity can be supported by adhering to principles of a healthy lifestyle: weight control, regular physical activity, proper hygiene, vaccination, and oral care. Scientists are paying close attention to infections such as cytomegalovirus, which causes a constant burden on the immune system and accelerates aging. Current research is also focused on finding ways to restore thymus function, the possibility of “restarting” the immune system, and precisely managing inflammation to maintain health and postpone age-related changes.
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