Green vegetables protect the human body from the harmful effects of pathogens, according to research by scientists from the Australian Institute of Molecular Immunology. The presence of vegetables in the diet is essential to maintain a population of certain types of immune cells that ensure the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract..

We are talking, in particular, about immune lymphoid cells (ILCs) located in the mucous membrane of the digestive tract and protecting the entire body from " Scientists suggest that these cells also prevent the development of diseases such as food allergies, inflammatory diseases, obesity and even bowel cancer..

Australian researchers have discovered a specific T-bet gene that plays an important role in the formation of ILCs. It is noteworthy that this gene responds to the food consumed by a person, in particular to proteins contained in green leafy vegetables of the cruciferous family, such as cabbage. These proteins activate the T-bet gene signaling pathway and promote the production of immune cells..

The consumption of green vegetables provides the right amount of immune lymphoid cells that produce the specific hormone interleukin-22 (IL-22), which protects the human body from invading bacteria.. A number of experiments have shown that the absence of the T-bet gene makes the body more susceptible to bacterial infections that enter it through the digestive system..

A large number of ILCs contribute to maintaining a healthy environment in the intestines, stimulating the rapid healing of small wounds and abrasions - a common occurrence in intestinal tissues..

ILCs may play an important role in the fight against cancer. It turned out that in general, scientists are only beginning to understand the significance of these immune cells for human health..

Thus, in order to get sick less often with bacterial infections, you should eat more greens.. In addition, the discovery of Australian scientists may allow in the future to develop drugs that increase the level of ILCs, as well as the body's resistance to infections..

global science. en.