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Thymus (thymus) Is a small grayish-pink organ, weighing about 35-37 grams. Located in the upper chest, just behind the sternum.
The growth of the organ continues until the onset of puberty. Then the process of involution begins and by the age of 75 the weight of the thymus is only 6 grams.
The thymus is responsible for the production of T-lymphocytes and the hormones thymosin, thymalin and thymopoietin.
In case of dysfunction of the thymus, there is a decrease in the number of T-lymphocytes in the blood. This, in particular, is the reason for the decrease in immunity in children, adults and the elderly.
This is interesting:
The thymus consists of two lobules. The lower part of each lobule is wide and the upper part is narrow. Thus, the thymus acquires a resemblance to a two-pronged fork, in honor of which it got its second name.
Healthy foods for the thymus
Due to the fact that the thymus is responsible for the normal functioning of the immune system, providing it with high-quality nutrition, guarantees the health of the whole organism. Recommended foods for the thymus include:
- Olive oil. It is rich in vitamin E, which is responsible for the normal functioning of the thymus gland.
- Mackerel, herring, tuna. They contain essential fatty acids, which are the source of nucleic acids for the thymus.
- Rosehip and citrus fruits. They contain a large amount of vitamin C, which has a beneficial effect on blood circulation. In addition, vitamin C is an antioxidant, protecting the thymus from degeneration.
- Leafy greens. It is a source of magnesium and folic acid, which are involved in the neuro-endocrine process.
- Sea buckthorn and carrots. Ideal sources of provitamin A, which stimulates the development and functioning of the thymus lobules. In addition, vitamin A slows down the aging process.
- Chicken. Contains an easily digestible protein, which is necessary as a building material for gland cells. In addition, chicken is rich in iron, which is essential for blood circulation.
- Eggs. They are a source of lecithin and a large number of trace elements. They have the ability to bind and remove toxins from the body.
- Seaweed. Thanks to the iodine contained in it, it stimulates metabolic processes in the thymus.
- Lactic acid products. They are high in protein, organic calcium and vitamin B.
- Pumpkin seeds and pine nuts. Contains zinc, which stimulates the synthesis of T-lymphocytes.
- Dark chocolate. It activates immune processes, dilates blood vessels, participates in the supply of oxygen to the thymus. Chocolate is useful for emotional and physical weakness caused by lack of sleep and overwork.
- Buckwheat. Contains 8 essential amino acids. In addition, it is rich in phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, beta-carotene, vitamin C, as well as manganese and zinc.
General recommendations
In order to keep the thymus healthy, the following guidelines should be followed:
- 1 Provide the thymus gland with a complete, varied and balanced diet. With frequent colds, you should pay special attention to foods containing vitamin C.
- 2 Observe a gentle solar regime, protecting the thymus from excessive insolation.
- 3 Do not expose the body to hypothermia.
- 4 Visit baths and saunas (after consulting a doctor in advance).
- 5 At least once a year, go to the South Coast or another full-fledged resort, where the air is saturated with such an amount of wholesome energy that it will last for the next eleven months.
Folk remedies for the normalization of the thymus gland
Regular hardening activities, daily moderate physical activity are simply necessary for the health of the thymus gland in adults and children. Saturation of the body with beneficial lactic acid bacteria (natural kefir, homemade yoghurts, etc.) will help maintain and strengthen the health of this organ.
A decoction of thyme (Bogorodskaya grass) has a very good effect on the activity of the gland. In order to prepare it, you should take 1 tablespoon of the herb collected during flowering and pour it over with one glass of boiling water. Insist for 1,5 hours. Take ¼ glass, half an hour after a meal, in small sips.
Also, massage of the upper fornix of the palate has a good effect for the prevention of premature involution of the thymus. To do this, you need to take the washed thumb into your mouth and massage the palate clockwise with a pad.
Harmful foods for the thymus
- French fries… Possessing a carcinogenic factor, it is capable of causing disturbances in the cellular structure of the gland.
- Products with added fructose… They cause destruction of the blood vessels of the thymus.
- Salt… Causes moisture retention in the body. As a result, the blood vessels are overloaded.
- Any food with preservatives… They are capable of causing fibrotic changes in the gland.
- Alcohol… It causes vasospasm, depriving the thymus of nutrition, and reduces the immunity of the whole organism.