Can a Strong Immune System Stop Cancer?

Dr. Betül Özbek, a faculty member in the Department of Medical Biochemistry at Altınbaş University Faculty of Medicine, provided insights into the effects of the immune system on cancer and emphasized the importance of vitamins in strengthening immunity.

Dr. Betül Özbek highlighted that immune system cells can surround cancerous cells, preventing them from spreading throughout the body, emphasizing the need for a sufficiently strong immune system. Dr. Özbek stated, "Regular physical activity, adequate and regular sleep, healthy nutrition, and incorporating these habits into one's lifestyle can strengthen the immune system. In addition, there are vitamin and mineral supplements used as complementary measures. However, it is necessary to take these under the advice of a doctor."

Dr. Özbek explained that during the body's normal vital functions, harmful free oxygen radicals are neutralized by antioxidant substances, stating, "Many antioxidant substances that strengthen the immune system are found in foods. However, supplementation may be necessary if they are insufficient. Consuming foods rich in antioxidant substances enables rapid repair of damage occurring in our cells, which function like factories, and ensures uninterrupted cellular activities."

Providing usage recommendations for the most commonly used vitamins, Dr. Özbek said, "Vitamin A, which is particularly important for the sense of sight, is also beneficial for maintaining the integrity of the skin and mucous membranes, the natural barrier of the immune system. Vitamin A is abundant in animal-based foods. Orange and yellow-colored fruits and vegetables are rich in carotene, the precursor of vitamin A. Consuming red-colored fruits and vegetables rich in another carotene, lycopene, such as tomatoes and watermelons, is important for preventing prostate cancer."

Dr. Özbek emphasized that each type of B-group vitamin has different effects, stating, "Vitamin B1 (Thiamine), which is effective in carbohydrate metabolism, also plays a very important role in regulating nerve and nerve-muscle transmission."

Dr. Özbek listed the benefits of other types of B-group vitamins as follows:

"B2 (Riboflavin), B3 (Niacin/Nicotinic acid), B5 (Pantothenic acid), and B7 (Biotin) vitamins work in the execution of cellular activities. Deficiency of some can lead to dermatitis, a type of skin sensitivity called neuralgia, severe pain due to nerve damage, and growth retardation in children. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine), which is beneficial for preventing cardiovascular diseases and strengthening the immune system, also plays an important role in the execution of cellular activities like other B vitamins. Folate/folic acid, which is effective in DNA synthesis, must be taken in sufficient quantities by the expectant mother before pregnancy for the healthy development of the baby during pregnancy. In addition, folate, through its role in the production of red blood cells, increases the body's resistance to diseases. Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) is often associated with memory. Memory, feeling physically and mentally well, and the immune system are very important. Vitamin B12 increases the body's threshold for feeling tired. It makes us more resistant to fatigue. Like vitamin B9, cobalamin also supports the production of red blood cells, benefiting all systems in the body."

Dr. Özbek emphasized the necessity of vitamin C for the effective functioning of the immune system. Dr. Özbek highlighted one of the important properties of vitamin C as increasing the absorption of some other vitamins and minerals in the body, stating, "Especially, smokers need to take vitamin C supplements because the amount of vitamin C in their bodies is much lower than normal. Particularly, it benefits the immune system, like in the processing of iron, an element responsible for oxygen transport, in our body."