What Redox Signaling Is and Why It Is Important
In these uncertain times, people have been focusing a lot on health; how to stay healthy, how to boost the immune system, and how to prevent others from getting sick. Sickness starts at the basic foundation of our bodies — our cells. Good health also begins at and is maintained in our cells. In fact, good cellular health prevents disease, slows signs of aging, increases energy, and boosts the immune system. So let’s find out how.
Redox Signaling
Cells make up every single part of the human body. Hair, skin, blood, bones, organs . . . everything is cells. Inside each cell are mitochondria, which are responsible for taking care of the cell. When a cell is getting old, forming incorrectly, or is sick, the mitochondria are responsible for sending out a signal for help. This signal is called a redox signaling molecule, and it communicates to the genes that something is wrong and needs to be repaired, replaced, or healed. If a cell is unable to get the help it needs, it can die or begin dividing and creating more sick cells.
Lots of everyday things affect cells negatively, from the foods we eat, to toxins in the air we breathe and even the germs we pass from one person to another. Poor cellular function is responsible for:
- Weakened immune system
- Poor digestive function
- Hormone imbalance
- Inflammation
- Cardiovascular disease
Aging and Cellular Function
Another factor that affects how well our cells communicate is aging. As we age, our cells begin to change. They get a bit worn down, similar to something rusting as it gets old. When cells are worn down, the mitochondria have a harder time releasing a redox signaling molecule, which means the cells cannot communicate with the genes in a fast and efficient manner. This weakens the immune system, making us more susceptible to all kinds of germs, viruses and infections. Aging cells also manifest in the skin as wrinkles and age spots.
Redox Signaling and the Immune System
The immune system is responsible for fighting off germs, fungi, viruses and parasites. It has the ability to recognize and then neutralize harmful environmental toxins that enter the body. It also fights diseased cells that are trying to multiply in the body, such as cancer. Redox signaling is a very important factor when it comes to a strong immune system. If the immune system is able to communicate via redox signaling, it can quickly and efficiently do its job and keep the body healthy. The immune system even plays an important role in helping you recover from illnesses when you get unavoidably sick.
Here are some ways to boost the immune system:
- Diet. That doesn’t mean you need to cut calories. Having a healthy diet means eating whole foods like fruits, veggies and whole grains. It also means eating healthy fats, like the fats found in nuts, fish and avocado. Avoid sugar when possible, and avoid unhealthy fat.
Sleep. Getting enough sleep works wonders for the body. Sleeping 7–9 hours a night strengthens the immune system, improves mood and alertness, and helps the body maintain a healthy weight.
- Gut. Gut health is incredibly important because your stomach is the first defense for germs that enter your body through your mouth. Taking a probiotic and prebiotic strengthens the gut.
- Supplement. Find a high-quality vitamin and mineral supplement and take it religiously. Also, adding a redox supplement to your diet can give your cells the boost they need to continue to communicate well with your genes, thus strengthening the immune system while also strengthening the cells throughout your body.
Try some of these things now to boost your immune system at home.
