Sick happens, but what actually defines "always sick?" Sorry, but not even immunologists have a hard-and-fast answer to that. It's highly personal to what your life demands.
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"It is important because the human immune system is geared to essentially protect us from infection, and so if a person is constantly sick, it may suggest that the immune system is being challenged by something," Dr. Viswanathan says.
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Your microbiome is your tiny internal world. It's made up of trillions of microscopic organisms, including bacteria. Some bacteria are beneficial, while others are harmful, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
However, you may wonder, "What does the bacteria in my gut have to do with my immune system, especially when it comes to sicknesses that affect my upper respiratory system?" In fact, you may have expected Dr. Viswanathan to ask about whether you have any lung conditions. That's important, too, of course, but your gut microbiome plays a big role in your immune system and overall health.
Dr. Viswanathan compares the gut to a teacher, and the immune system to the student.
Indeed, a 2021 review in Nutrients found an intricate link between gut bacteria and immune system health, supporting a growing body of evidence that the two are related. Of course, Dr. Viswanathan points out that sometimes he looks at his patients' gut health, and things check out. There can be several reasons why you're "always sick."
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How To Improve Gut Health So You’re Sick Less Often
"Three habits that may be important are quality sleep, a supportive food lifestyle and regularity of bowel movements," Dr. Viswanathan says.
He notes that even medications prescribed for good reasons by a doctor could affect your gut bacteria, and not always in a positive way. Speak to your doctor about your concerns, and they can help you navigate them, either by prescribing something else or by recommending other supportive measures for your personal microbiome.
Related: The Best Breakfast Add-In for Your Immune System, According to Doctors (It's Not Orange Juice!)
Sources:
Dr. Dushyant Viswanathan, MD, a double board-certified Integrative Internist specializing in enteroimmunology (gut microbiome) and the Chief Medical Officer of the Columbia Center for Integrative Medicine (CCIMHealth)Gut Microbiome. Cleveland Clinic.The Interplay between the Gut Microbiome and the Immune System in the Context of Infectious Diseases throughout Life and the Role of Nutrition in Optimizing Treatment Strategies. Nutrients.The gut ecosystem and immune tolerance. Journal of Autoimmunity.Interaction between microbiota and immunity in health and disease. Cell Research.Hence then, the article about i m an immunologist this is the first thing i ask when someone says they re always getting sick was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
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