Lifestyle has a big impact on how our innate and adaptive immune system functions. One of the factors, that regulates the immune response, is diet. Diet affects the gut microflora, which is an important defense mechanism. To achieve an anti-inflammatory effect, we have to eat enough complex carbohydrates, unsaturated fatty acids, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Along with the infection, we can also see the impact of stress, which works through the activation of the HPA axis and sympathetic nervous system. Short-term stress improves immune response, while chronic stress weakens it. Previously mentioned pathways can also be activated by sleep deprivation, resulting in increased amount of inflammatory cytokines. On the contrary, a good sleeping schedule reduces the inflammatory effect. Physical activity can have a double effect as well. Excessive physical activity leads to overtraining syndrome, tissue inflammation, and increased susceptibility to upper respiratory tract infections. In contrast, moderate exercise reduces inflammatory cytokines production, prevents reactivation of latent viruses, and enhances positive response to vaccines. This response is also enhanced by moderate alcohol consumption, whereas chronic alcoholism reduces the number and activity of immune cells. Furthermore, smoking negatively affects the immune response and increases the risk of diseases.
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