For most of us, a strong immune system implies fewer sick leaves and being able to avoid seasonal colds, stomach bugs or just about any infection. But research shows that a ramped up immune system goes much further: it helps us age better and live longer.

Each of us age differently, some fast, others like a giant tortoise.according to dr Mark liponis, author, Ultra-Longevity: the Seven-Step program for a Younger, Healthier You, the symptoms of ageing (retarded function of the skin, bones, heart, nerves, lungs, kidneys and all other organs) are “caused by an immune system that is far more active than it should be”.

When your immune system is at its peak capacity “it turns on and off at precise times to eradicate pathogens, while not causing chronic inflammation that can lead to cardiovascular disease and diabetes”, says Dr Richard Stanton, senior lecturer in microbiology, Cardiff University School of Medicine, in his research paper Immune Boosting Strategy for Longevity. Stanton goes on to say, “Serious infections, cancers and inflammatory diseases are amongst the leading causes of premature death in older adults.

These disorders all arise from a common cause: the ageing of the immune system also known as immune senescence.” Why? Because immune senescence affects both our innate immunity at birth, the first line of defence, as well as our adaptive immunity, which we develop over time as our body i s exposed to and builds a memory of the kind of bugs it has encountered.