In modern medical research, how to effectively enhance the function of the immune system and how to help the body resist major diseases such as cancer has always been the direction that scientists tirelessly explore. Recently, there has been widespread attention on the relationship between table salt – a common seasoning in our daily lives – and the anti-cancer ability of immune cells. More and more studies have shown that moderate salt intake can not only enhance immune responses, but may also improve the body’s ability to resist tumors to some extent.
1、 The basic components and functions of table salt
The main component of table salt is sodium chloride (NaCl), which is one of the most common minerals in our diet. The use of salt can be traced back thousands of years, and throughout history, humans have recognized the importance of salt in maintaining health. Salt is not only used for seasoning in the body, but also plays an important role in cellular function, nerve conduction, and water balance.
The role of salt in the body is mainly reflected in the following aspects:
Maintaining electrolyte balance: Sodium chloride is an important electrolyte that can help the body maintain proper water and acid-base balance.
Promoting digestion: Salt can stimulate saliva secretion, which helps with the digestion and absorption of food.
Improving neurological function: Salt is crucial for the transmission of nerve signals, and moderate intake can help improve neurological function.
2、 New research reveals the relationship between salt and the immune system
In recent years, many studies have shown that salt plays an indispensable role in regulating immune responses. Specifically, salt can enhance overall immune function by affecting the function of immune cells. The key to these studies lies in the concentration of sodium chloride and its direct effects on certain immune cells.
The impact of a high salt diet on immune cells: Some animal experiments have shown that increasing salt intake in the diet can promote the activation of T and B cells. These cells are the elite of our immune system, capable of recognizing and eliminating cancer cells and viruses.
The role of salt in monocytes: Studies have shown that changes in salt concentration can affect the behavior of monocytes and promote their migration to the site of inflammation. This process is crucial for the body to resist viruses and tumors.
The relationship between adenylate cyclase and salt: In some studies, it has been found that an increase in salt is positively correlated with an increase in adenylate cyclase activity. Adenosine acylase is a key enzyme that has a significant impact on the adaptive response and activity of immune cells.
3、 Understand the anti-cancer ability of immune cells
To gain a deeper understanding of how salt enhances the anti-cancer ability of immune cells, we also need to understand the operational mechanisms of immune cells. The immune system is the first line of defense against foreign pathogens and internal tumor cells, and the main types of immune cells include:
T cells, especially cytotoxic T cells, have strong recognition and killing abilities against cancer cells.
B cells: mainly responsible for producing antibodies to help neutralize external viruses and bacteria.
Natural killer cells (NK cells): These cells can quickly recognize and eliminate cancer cells and infected cells.
Under normal circumstances, immune cells are able to recognize and eliminate abnormal cells, but when these cells become dysfunctional for various reasons, their anti-cancer ability decreases. Research has shown that salt can enhance the anti-cancer ability of immune cells in various ways, such as:
Enhancing cellular activity: Salt can increase the survival rate and proliferation ability of immune cells, making them more combat ready in the face of such threats. Stimulating the secretion of cytokines: Cytokines are important signals for communication between immune cells, and salt intake can increase the levels of certain cytokines, which can further enhance immune responses.
4、 The importance of moderate intake of salt
Although salt has shown positive potential in enhancing immune cells against cancer, excessive salt intake can lead to health hazards such as hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Therefore, understanding the importance of moderate intake is crucial. According to the recommendations of the World Health Organization, the daily salt intake for adults should be controlled within 5 grams to maintain good health.
How to balance intake
Pay attention to labels: When purchasing food, check the sodium content on the food label and choose low salt products.
Homemade meals: Try to make your own food at home to control the amount of salt used.
Replace with herbs and spices: Using fresh onions, garlic, ginger, spices, etc. can enhance the flavor of food without relying too much on salt.
Listen to the voice of the body
Everyone’s physique is different, and their demand for salt intake also varies. Only by paying attention to bodily sensations and adjusting salt intake in moderation can salt truly exert its protective effect on the immune system.
The function of salt is not limited to seasoning, its important role in our immune system is receiving increasing attention. Moderate intake of salt may help enhance the anti-cancer ability of immune cells, thereby strengthening our body’s defense mechanisms. However, maintaining moderate salt intake remains a health principle that must be followed. We should enjoy that table salt is a double-edged sword. Understanding its positive impact on the immune system and controlling intake appropriately are important guarantees for maintaining our health.
