Question 360 of 433
Does the immune system age?
The short answer
Yes. With age we make fewer fresh immune cells, respond less to vaccines and new infections, and clear abnormal cells less well.
The thymus, the gland that trains T cells, shrinks to mostly fat by middle age. Dr. Topol argues that immune aging is a central driver of the diseases of aging, and the evidence is growing. What preserves immune function is familiar: exercise, sleep, adequate protein and vitamin D, low stress, and vaccination, which gives an older immune system a head start.
“This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship.” From the book’s medical disclaimer. Full disclaimer
ESTABLISHED BIOLOGY — Immune aging; no single supplement or protocol reverses it clinically.Evidence grade (draft mapping)EEstablished clinical knowledgePart 24, Q360 · Part sources
From Longevity Unmasked by Afshine Ash Emrani, MD, FACC. Medical disclaimer. This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship. Nothing here is meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Medicine is personal: a test, drug, supplement, or exercise plan that helps one person can harm another. Do not start, stop, or change any medication or treatment because of something you read in these pages. Talk with a licensed clinician who knows your history first. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911. The author disclaims responsibility for any loss or harm arising from use of the information in this book.