Take vitamin C supplements when you feel a cold coming on? The problem is, you can't actually "strengthen" your immune system, says Dr. Jen Gunter. Diving into the elegant network of cells, tissues and organs that protect us every day, she introduces two kinds of immunity that specialize in recognizing and fighting off bad bacteria, viruses, fungi and toxins -- and shares what you can do to keep your immune system healthy. Want to hear more from Dr. Gunter? Check out her podcast Body Stuff, from the TED Audio Collective.

Jen Gunter: Can you actually boost your immune system? Here's the truth

Can you actually boost your immune system? Here's the truth

Boosting the immune system is a myth; balance is key. Over-supplementation can disrupt, not enhance, immune functionality.

A balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and regular immunizations are championed as the true guardians of a healthy immune system.

Vaccines ingeniously train the immune system by mimicking pathogens, enabling a swift, robust response without prior illness.