The forest as an immunbooster: the power of IGA, negative ions and the forest microbioma
Winter is there - and with it the Cold period.
The cold season not only brings cozy evenings with a cup of tea by candlelight, but also an increased load for your immune system. Cunculus, cough and flu infections seem to be lurking everywhere.
But did you know that nature can be your biggest ally now? A walk in the forest can naturally strengthen your immune system. In this article you will learn how immunoglobulin A (IGA) works in your nasal mucosa, what effect negative ions have and how the microbiome of the forest helps you to get strengthened by the cold period.
Your nasal mucosa and IGA: The first line of defense
your immune system
Your nasal mucosa is a real miracle of nature - it is equipped with immunoglobulin A (IGA), an antibody that protects your mucous membranes. IGA binds pathogens such as viruses and bacteria and prevents you from penetrating your body.
Why is IGA so important for you?
- Neutralization of pathogens: IGA prevents viruses such as flu or
Calculation viruses in your mucous membranes multiply. - Important protection through mucus: It holds the mucus in your nose and yours
Intacts intact, what an effective barrier against pathogens
represent.
Danger! Stress, lack of sleep and pollution can affect IGA production.
The good news: nature offers opportunities to strengthen it again. How does that happen? We are now coming.
Negative ions: The power of the forest air
In the forest you not only surround you fresh air - you also breathe in a high concentration of negative ions. These electrically charged molecules are particularly available in large quantities after rain or near waterfalls.
How do negative ions help your immune system?
- IGA increase: Negative ions promote the production of IGA in your mucous membranes.
- Stress reduction: They lower your cortisol level (stress hormone), which in turn improves your immune function.
- Cleaning the air: Negative ions bind fine dust, pollen and other pollutants so that your airways are relieved.
Tip: Go to the forest regularly - already 2 hours a week can have a noticeable effect.
Natural immunbooster
"A walk in the forest is not only good for the immune system, but also gives relaxation and new energy".
The microbiome of the forest: a treasure for your health
The forest floor is full of microbes that can be extremely valuable for your health. These tiny organisms get through your skin, respiratory tract or by touching your body and enrich your own microbiome there.
Why is your microbiome so important?
Your microbioma, which consists of billions of microorganisms, plays a key role for your immune system.
It helps ...
- Reduce inflammation: A diverse microbiome helps to protect you from chronic inflammation and autoimmune diseases.
- To stimulate IGA production: The variety of microbes stimulates your mucous membranes to produce more IGA.
According to a study by Hanski et al. (2012) A larger microbial variety in your body - and thus a stronger immune system.
Practical tips for you: This is how you strengthen your immune system with the help of nature
- Spend time in the forest regularly: Already two hours a week in nature can
Help to strengthen your immune system and reduce stress. - Breathe deeply: Use the fresh, ion -rich air to support your mucous membranes.
- Touch nature: No matter whether earth, trees or plants - contact with nature brings you closer to the valuable microbes of the forest.
- Promote your microbiome: Fiber and fermented foods such as fresh sauerkraut or yogurt promote the health of your microbioma and its interaction with the microbes from nature.
Conclusion: The forest looks like a natural immunbooster
The connection between Iga, negative ions and that Forest microbioma shows how important nature is for you and your immune system. Your nasal mucosa is the first line of defense against
Press pathogens, and she benefits enormously from a simple walk in the forest.
The combination of fresh air, negative ions and the microbial variety of the forest is a gift for your health - and it is right in front of your door.
So consciously plan time in nature every week.
All the best and have fun in nature wishes you
Your Millivital team
PS: A walk in the park of course also has a positive effect on your immune system, because often enough the forest is not around the corner.
Sources
- Hanski I. et al. (2012): “Environmental Biodiversity, Human Microbiota, and Allergy are interrelated.” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), 109 (21), 8334–8339.
- Sulman F.G. et al. (1980): “The effect of air ionization on the immune system.” International Journal of
Biometeorology, 24 (4), 281–289. - Mora J.R. et al. (2008): "The Role of Iga in Mucosal Immunity." Nature Reviews Immunology, 8 (9), 708–720.
