Your brain and immune system are intricately related, and they’re constantly communicating with each other. The brain typically functions as the body’s control system; the immune system, its protector. So, does the brain control immune health?
Although the brain calls the shots on mostly all functions of your body, the immune system is one of the few exceptions. Instead of one controlling the other, they work hand-in-hand to ensure you’re healthy. This means that supporting each system independently will help them work better together. The mind does best when boosted with brain health supplements and a healthy diet. Your immune system thrives from similar considerations, including exercise. Whether you focus on mental performance supplements or physical exercise, you should remember that the brain and immune system exist in a consistent collaboration.
Does the Brain Control the Immune System? A Closer Look
Until recently, not much was known about how the brain and immune system interact with each other. New studies show that immune cells act like guards outside of the brain. Since the cells are designed for fighting infections (which leads to inflammation), having them inside of the brain would be dangerous and potentially damaging. Instead, they monitor the fluid that enters and exits the brain to ensure there are no issues occurring within. When you are sick, your immune cells signal your brain that you should lie down and rest.
On the other side of things, the brain has the ability to affect immune cells, too. This capability mainly manifests through the presence of stress hormones. When the brain is stressed, it triggers the release of stress hormones. At high levels, these hormones will cause the immune system to shut off. High levels of stress will cause a weak immune system, and your body will be more susceptible to illness.
Heal Your Body with Less Stress
Since stress has a heavy impact on both the mind and body, you should invest in a mental performance supplement that helps alleviate your daily levels. No need to worry about a difficult search– there are several options for you to consider. Here are three brain health supplements to consider for a happier mind and higher immunity:
- Ashwagandha
Originally an evergreen shrub native to India, Africa and the Middle East, this supplement regulates the effects of stress. It’s known as an adaptogen, or medicine that helps your immune system reduce disease. It is best consumed as a pill or capsule for stress-relieving results.
- L-Theanine
L-Theanine is a brain health supplement derived from an amino acid found in green tea. Not only does it reduce stress and thus empower the immune system, but also it has several other cognitive benefits. This amino acid is proven to improve memory, verbal ability, and focus. It is easily accessible as a capsule or pill.
- Magnesium
A naturally occurring mineral, magnesium is responsible for regulating several bodily functions. This mental performance supplement is especially helpful for those with anxiety. It works to lower the body’s overall levels of stress and anxiety, so it is naturally helpful to your immune system.
Staying Healthy With Supplemental Help
Does the brain control immune health? Well, no. Scientists are still working to fully grasp an understanding of the neuroimmune connection, but we do know that you should have a healthy mind to have a healthy body. Brain health supplements can help you work towards a better mental balance.
If you’re unsure where to begin, try taking mental performance supplements geared towards lowering your stress levels. Stress is innately tied to your brain and immune health, so targeting these levels first will help you yield promising results. Give us a call at 615-933-5188 if you need more guidance!