Did you know that bariatric surgery can have a positive impact on the immune system, which is the body's defense mechanism against infections and diseases? In a post-COVID world, it is of vital importance that we do our utmost to keep our immune system strong as possible.
The immune system consists of various cells and molecules that recognize and eliminate foreign invaders, such as bacteria, viruses, and cancer cells. However, obesity can impair the immune system and make it less effective and more prone to inflammation. This can increase the risk of infections, autoimmune diseases, and cancers. Bariatric surgery can help restore the immune system's balance and function by reducing obesity and its associated complications.
Here are some of the ways that bariatric surgery can improve immunity:
Altering Gut Microbiota. This is the collection of microorganisms that live in the digestive tract. The gut microbiota plays an important role in modulating the immune system, as it can influence the development and activation of immune cells, as well as the production of various substances that affect immunity, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), bile acids, and spermidine. Bariatric surgery can change the composition and diversity of the gut microbiota, leading to more beneficial bacteria and less harmful bacteria.
Reducing Chronic Inflammation. This is a state of low-grade but persistent activation of the immune system. Chronic inflammation can be caused by obesity, as excess fat tissue can secrete proinflammatory molecules, such as cytokines, chemokines, and adipokines. Chronic inflammation can damage the tissues and organs of the body, as well as interfere with the normal function of the immune system. Bariatric surgery can reduce chronic inflammation by decreasing fat mass and improving metabolic parameters, such as blood sugar levels, blood pressure levels, cholesterol levels, and insulin sensitivity. This can lower the levels of pro-inflammatory molecules and increase the levels of anti-inflammatory molecules in the body.
Modifying the Adaptive Immune System. This is the part of the immune system that learns from previous exposures to pathogens and produces specific responses to them. The adaptive immune system consists of different types of cells, such as T cells, B cells, and natural killer (NK) cells. Obesity can affect the adaptive immune system by altering the number, distribution, activation, and function of these cells. For example, obesity can increase the number of CD4+ T cells that produce inflammatory cytokines (Th1 cells) and decrease the number of CD4+ T cells that produce anti-inflammatory cytokines (Th2 cells), leading to a Th1/Th2 imbalance. Obesity can also decrease the number and activity of NK cells, which are important for killing cancer cells and virus-infected cells. Bariatric surgery can reverse these changes by restoring the balance between Th1 and Th2 cells, increasing the number and function of NK cells, and enhancing the production of antibodies by B cells
Don't let obesity compromise your immune system and overall health. Take action today and schedule a consultation with us. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthier and happier life.