03 - The Shrinking of the Thymus Gland
The thymus gland, a small but mighty organ nestled behind your breastbone, plays a starring role in your immune system's development. Fully functional at birth, it diligently trains and matures your T-cells. However, around the time we hit puberty, the thymus embarks on a journey of transformation, gradually shrinking in size – a process known as thymic involution. This shrinking act has significant implications for our immune health, particularly as we age.
As the thymus diminishes in size, its ability to produce and activate new T-cells declines. This decline in T-cell production can lead to a weakened immune response, making us more susceptible to immune-related attacks, affecting our overall health and wellness. In essence, the shrinking thymus is a key factor in the age-related decline of our immune function, underscoring the importance of supporting T-cell health as we grow older. In fact, a common trait of people who remain healthy into their 80s, 90s, and 100, is an optimally functioning immune system.