2025.01.20
[Doctor Supervised] The Relationship Between Oxidative Stress and Immune Function: A Comprehensive Guide to Immune Cells and Prevention Strategies
The human body is equipped with mechanisms to eliminate foreign substances that enter it. This function is known as immune function, carried out by various immune cells to protect the body. However, abnormalities in immune function can lead to attacks on healthy cells or misdirected responses.
Oxidative stress is one factor contributing to a decline in immune function. Therefore, reducing oxidative stress can help prevent a decrease in immune functionality.
This article explores the relationship between immune function and oxidative stress and provides actionable strategies to mitigate oxidative stress and maintain immune health.
Immune function refers to the body’s ability to recognize, attack, and eliminate foreign substances like viruses and bacteria.
When lifestyle habits are disrupted or stress takes a toll, the autonomic nervous system can become imbalanced, leading to a decline in immune function. Abnormalities in immune function can result in the body attacking harmless cells or tissues, causing diseases in organs or skin.
For example, inhaling dust triggers coughing—a normal immune response to expel the foreign substance. However, when the immune system overreacts, it can produce antibodies against harmless substances like pollen, causing symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes, commonly known as hay fever.
Immune cells are the components of the immune system responsible for its functions. They are primarily found within white blood cells and circulate in the bloodstream alongside platelets and other blood cells. Most immune cells originate in the bone marrow, while some develop in the thymus located above the heart.
Immune cells are broadly categorized into innate immunity (white blood cell-based) and acquired immunity (lymphocyte-based). Innate immunity is the body’s natural defense mechanism, present from birth, which recognizes and eliminates foreign invaders like viruses and bacteria. Acquired immunity develops after exposure to foreign substances, enabling the body to respond more effectively to previously encountered threats.
Innate immune cells, such as dendritic cells and macrophages, are part of the white blood cell group. These cells identify and engulf invading bacteria or viruses, breaking them down and transmitting information about the foreign substance to lymphocyte-based immune cells.
Lymphocyte-based immune cells include T cells and B cells. T cells are further divided into helper T cells, killer T cells, and regulatory T cells, each playing a specific role in identifying, attacking, or regulating immune responses. B cells produce antibodies to neutralize invaders and prepare for future threats.
Oxidative stress refers to a state where reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced in excess. ROS can damage white blood cells and disrupt immune balance, impairing the immune system’s functionality.
ROS, naturally produced during oxygen metabolism, play essential roles in immune signaling and defense. However, excessive ROS production overwhelms the body’s antioxidant defenses, leading to oxidative stress. This condition weakens immune cells, making the body more susceptible to infections, cancer, and allergies.
Related Article: Immune Function and Oxidative Stress: How Oxidative Stress Becomes an Enemy of Immunity (Louis Pasteur Medical Research Center)
Reducing oxidative stress is essential for maintaining a robust immune system. This involves minimizing habits that contribute to excessive ROS production and increasing antioxidant intake to support the body’s natural defenses.
Avoid habits like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and UV exposure, which are major sources of ROS. Smoking introduces free radicals into the body, while alcohol metabolism generates ROS. UV rays produce ROS upon skin exposure, contributing to photoaging and oxidative stress. Moderate exercise can also enhance the body’s antioxidant defenses, provided it is not overly strenuous.
Consuming foods rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, polyphenols, and carotenoids, supports the body’s ability to combat oxidative stress. Vitamin C is found in strawberries, kiwis, and bell peppers, while vitamin E is abundant in almonds and avocado. Polyphenols, like catechins in green tea and anthocyanins in blueberries, and carotenoids in colorful vegetables, are also effective antioxidants. Supplements can help fill dietary gaps but should be chosen based on reliable scientific evidence.
Related Article: Dietary Recommendations for Reducing Oxidative Stress (Louis Pasteur Medical Research Center)
Oxidative stress weakens immune cells, leading to a decline in immune function. Preventive measures, such as avoiding ROS-producing habits and consuming antioxidant-rich foods, are essential for maintaining health and a strong immune system. Review your daily habits and make changes to support immune function and overall well-being.
