Education

The immune system is one of the body's defence systems. It defends against infectious organisms and other invaders through a series of steps collectively known as the immune response. It works by attacking organisms and substances that are not recognised by the body which could otherwise invade the body and lead to illness or disease.

The immune system is made up of a complex network of cells, tissues and organs that work together to protect the body. How well the body's defence system works is dependent on several different elements such as: genetics, the external environment, nutrition and lifestyle. These all assist in maintaining this essential defence system at a sufficient level to stimulate an effective response to infections or bad bacteria and other aggressors.

It is important to understand what can weaken natural defences and how to help strengthen them. For example, the influence of stress (both psychological and physical) on the immune system is increasingly being recognised.² A strong link has been demonstrated between stress and an increased susceptibility to infections,^{3, 4} atopic diseases and asthma.⁵

Optimising immunity and supporting the body's defences could pay dividends in the long term because it could help:

• Fight off viral and bacterial infections
• Promote vitality
• Maintain health and wellbeing
• Ensure a speedier recovery from illness.

Actimel, containing the patented L.casei Imunitass strain, can help to support your immune system as part of your body's defences

Research indicates that probiotics may be especially beneficial when the body's defences are challenged by factors such as: diarrhoea, taking antibiotics and, in particular, for older people. Probiotics are sometimes recommended by doctors, and, more frequently, by nutritionists, after a course of antibiotics, or as part of the treatment for gut-related candidiasis.