Psychoneuroimmunity is a complex word that defines how the mind-body connection is directly related to our immune system. Chronic diseases and stress markedly affect our body's capacity to manage inflammation and infections.
The major pathway of communication for the immune system lies between the brain and the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve extends from the brain stem to the abdomen. This is known as the brain-gut axis. When inflammation develops, our immune cells release a protein called cytokines. Cytokines control and monitor inflammation. The cytokines bind to receptor sites on the vagus nerve, signaling the brain to make more cytokines. Various subclasses of cytokines become activated in response to different types of infections and inflammation. The Cleveland Clinic lists the different kinds of cytokines our body produces in the immune system.
Chemokines: Chemokines direct immune cells toward places in the body where they can fight infection.
Interferons: Interferons signal cells to fight off viruses.
Interleukins: Leukocytes and other cell express interleukins. Interleukins facilitate communication between different immune cells to coordinate an effective defense against pathogens.
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF): TNF regulates inflammation in the body and aids in targeting tumor cell replication.
Colony-stimulating factors (CSF): CSF regulates macrophage function, enabling them to combat invading viruses and bacterial infections.
The Impact of Stress on the Immune System
According to the American Psychology Association, stress reduces the number of lymphocytes that fight off viruses and infections. Stress can cause the immune system to produce an inflammatory response by releasing cortisol. The release of cortisol induces inflammation in the body, thereby compromising the ability to defend against infections. Some causes of stress may include environmental, financial challenges, and emotional factors. Chronic diseases gradually impose stress on the body over time, including conditions like diabetes, lupus, cardiovascular diseases, auto-immune, asthma, and renal dysfunction.
In Conclusion
The brain-gut axis plays a vital role in a healthy immune system. Improving the brain-gut axis involves improving the communication between the brain and the gastrointestinal system. Some ways to improve this communication include:
Taking probiotics and prebiotics
Exercise
Staying hydrated
Good sleep hygiene
Meditation
Decreasing our toxic load from environmental stressors
Dietary supplementation
Eating a well-balanced diet of fruits and vegetables
Maintaining a healthy weight
Psychoneuroimmunity encompasses a holistic approach to overall health. The brain-gut axis, facilitated by the vagus nerve, plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy immune system. Adopting a mind-body-spirit connection perspective promotes optimal well-being.
Sources:
American Psychology Association
Cleveland Clinic
Dermatology Therapy
PubMed
WebMD
https://www.webmd.com/brain/what-is-psychoneuroimmunology Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board