Can we boost the immune system? ⏲️ 6 Minute English

Summary

In this episode of '6 Minute English', Georgie and Neil discuss the immune system and various ways people attempt to boost their immunity, like taking supplements or engaging in cold water swimming. They explore common techniques such as vitamin C intake, echinacea, and ginger shots, with experts providing insights into their effectiveness. The hosts also touch on the effects of stress and social activities on immunity. In the end, Georgie answers a trivia question about how many colds the average UK adult gets annually, revealing that it's typically 2-3.

Takeaways

• 😀 The immune system is the body's natural defense against illness.
• 😀 People often try different methods to boost their immune system, such as eating healthy foods, taking vitamins, or engaging in activities like cold water swimming.
• 😀 The average adult in the UK gets 2-3 colds per year.
• 😀 A common cold causes symptoms like coughing, sneezing, sore throat, and headache.
• 😀 The phrase 'touch wood' is used to avoid bad luck, often after expressing hope that something will continue to go well.
• 😀 'Snuffles' or 'sniffles' are informal terms for minor nasal illnesses.
• 😀 To 'back someone up' means to support or confirm their opinion or statement.
• 😀 'Tickety-boo' means everything is fine or in good order.
• 😀 Cortisol, a hormone associated with stress, can weaken the immune system, making people more susceptible to infections.
• 😀 Cold water swimming may reduce stress and improve mental health, but its direct impact on the immune system is still unclear.
• 😀 Activities like dancing, singing, or running may also reduce stress and benefit the immune system, similar to cold water swimming.

Q & A

What is the topic of the 6 Minute English episode?

The topic of the episode is the immune system, which is the body's natural defense against illness.

What are some common methods people use to try to boost their immune system?

People often try eating certain foods, taking vitamins, or engaging in activities like swimming in cold water to boost their immune system.

How many colds does the average adult in the UK get per year?

The average adult in the UK gets 2-3 colds per year.

What is the informal phrase used by Professor John Tregoning to express good luck or to avoid bad luck?

Professor John Tregoning uses the phrase 'touch wood' to avoid bad luck.

What is the meaning of 'snuffles' in the context of the script?

'Snuffles' refers to minor illnesses that affect the nose, similar to sniffles.

What does the phrase 'back me up' mean?

'Back me up' means asking someone to support or confirm your opinion or statement.

What does the phrase 'tickety-boo' mean?

'Tickety-boo' is an informal phrase meaning everything is fine or in good order.

How does stress affect the immune system, according to Professor John Tregoning?

Stress increases the production of cortisol, which dampens the immune system, making people more prone to infection.

What is the primary reason cold water swimming might benefit the immune system?

Cold water swimming may reduce stress, which could help the immune system function better, but it’s not the only activity that can achieve this effect.

What does it mean if someone is 'prone' to something?

If someone is 'prone' to something, it means they are more likely to experience it, such as being more likely to get sick.