Bad for immunity: myths and reality

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Bad for immunity: myths and reality

Section 1: Immunity – Fundamentals and mechanisms

Immunity, a complex and multifaceted system, is a cornerstone of human health, providing body protection from a wide spectrum of threats, including pathogenic microorganisms, toxins and abnormal cells. Understanding the fundamental principles of the functioning of the immune system is critically important for assessing the effectiveness and appropriateness of using biologically active additives (dietary supplements) for its strengthening.

1.1. The components of the immune system:

The immune system is not a single organ, but is a complex network of cells, tissues and organs working in a close relationship to ensure reliable protection. Key components include:

  • Bone marrow: The formation of all blood cells, including immune cells, such as lymphocytes and macrophages.
  • Timus (thymus iron): An organ that plays a crucial role in the maturation of T-lymphocytes, key cells of cellular immunity.
  • Lymphatic nodes: Places of lymph filtration containing antigens and immune cells. In the lymph nodes there is an activation of the immune response.
  • Spleen: An organ that filter blood and removes old and damaged cells, as well as participating in the immune response to antigens circulating in the blood.
  • Tonsils and adenoids: Lymphoid tissues located in the throat and nasopharynx, providing protection against infections that fall through the respiratory tract.
  • Leather and mucous membranes: Physical barriers that prevent the penetration of pathogens into the body. The mucus produced by mucous membranes contains antimicrobial substances.
  • Intestine: Contains a huge amount of microorganisms (intestinal microbiota), playing an important role in the development and maintenance of immunity.

1.2. Types of immunity:

Immunity is divided into two main types: congenital and acquired.

  • Inborn immunity: The first line of body protection, represented by non -specific mechanisms acting from the moment of birth. These include physical barriers (leather, mucous membranes), fagocytes (macrophages, neutrophils), natural killers (NK cells) and a complement system. Congenital immunity reacts quickly, but does not have immunological memory.
  • Acquired immunity: It is formed during life as a result of contact with antigens (foreign substances). The acquired immunity is characterized by specificity and immunological memory, which allows the body to more effectively fight repeated infections. The acquired immunity is divided into cellular (mediated by T-lymphocytes) and humoral (mediated by B-lymphocytes that produce antibodies).

1.3. Mechanisms of the immune response:

The immune response is a complex sequence of events aimed at neutralization or destruction of pathogens. The key stages include:

  • Antigen recognition: Immune cells (for example, macrophages) recognize antigens using receptors specific for certain antigenic determinants.
  • Activation of immune cells: The recognition of the antigen leads to the activation of immune cells, which begin to produce cytokines (signal molecules) and other factors necessary for the immune response.
  • Proliferation and differentiation of immune cells: Activated immune cells begin to actively share (proliferate) and differentiate into specialized cells that can effectively fight the pathogen.
  • Antigen elimination: Immune cells use various mechanisms to destroy pathogens, including phagocytosis (absorption and digestion), cytotoxicity (killing infected cells) and neutralization of antigens using antibodies.
  • Formation of immunological memory: After the elimination of the antigen, part of the immune cells turns into memory cells, which provide a faster and more effective immune response in re -contact with the same antigen.

1.4. Factors affecting immunity:

The state of the immune system is affected by many factors, including:

  • Age: Immunity weakens with age (immunostation).
  • Genetics: A genetic predisposition plays a role in susceptibility to infections and autoimmune diseases.
  • Nutrition: The lack of nutrients (vitamins, minerals, proteins) can weaken the immunity.
  • Stress: Chronic stress suppresses the immune system.
  • Dream: The lack of sleep worsens the function of immune cells.
  • Physical activity: Moderate physical activity strengthens the immunity, while excessive loads can weaken it.
  • Bad habits: Smoking and alcohol abuse negatively affect the immune system.
  • Chronic diseases: Some chronic diseases (for example, diabetes, HIV) weaken the immunity.
  • Medicines: Some drugs (for example, immunosuppressors) suppress the immune system.
  • Environmental factors: Environmental pollution can weaken the immune system.

Section 2: Dietrs for immunity – review and classification

Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) for immunity are a wide range of products positioned as products that can strengthen the immune system and increase the body’s resistance to infections. However, despite their popularity, the effectiveness and safety of many dietary supplements remain the subject of discussions and require a thorough assessment.

2.1. Classification of dietary supplements for immunity:

Dad for immunity can be classified according to various criteria, including the composition, mechanism of action and the estimated effect.

  • By composition:

    • Vitamins: Vitamin C, vitamin D, B vitamins, vitamin E, vitamin A.
    • Minerals: Zinc, selenium, iron, copper.
    • Plant extracts: Echinacea, ginseng, garlic, ginger, turmeric, astral.
    • Probiotics and prebiotics: Lactobacteria, bifidobacteria, inulin, fruitoligosaccharides.
    • Mushrooms: Reishi, Shiitake, Maitake, Cordyceps.
    • Amino acids: Glutamin, Argin.
    • Fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids.
    • Nucleotihoti: Construction blocks of DNA and RNA.
    • Other: Coenzyme Q10, beta-glucans, colostrum (colostrum).

  • By the mechanism of action (alleged):

    • Immunomodulator: Substances that can regulate the activity of the immune system, stimulating or suppressing it depending on the situation.
    • Antioxidants: Substances that protect the cells from damage by free radicals formed in the process of metabolism and when exposed to harmful environmental factors.
    • Anti -inflammatory drugs: Substances that reduce inflammation that can weaken the immune system.
    • Antimicrobials: Substances with the ability to suppress growth or destroy microorganisms.
    • Prebiotics: Substances that stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines, which can improve immunity.

2.2. The most popular dietary supplement for immunity:

  • Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): One of the most popular dietary supplements for immunity. It is believed that vitamin C stimulates the activity of immune cells, has antioxidant properties and promotes wound healing.
  • Vitamin D: Plays an important role in the regulation of the immune system. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of infections and autoimmune diseases.
  • Zinc: It is necessary for the normal functioning of immune cells. Zinc deficiency can weaken the immunity and increase susceptibility to infections.
  • SOUTINATEA: A plant extract, which is believed to stimulates the activity of immune cells and has antiviral properties.
  • Probiotics: Living microorganisms, which when entering the intestine have a positive effect on health. Probiotics can improve immunity by strengthening the intestinal barrier and stimulating the activity of immune cells.
  • Garlic: Contains allicin, a substance with antimicrobial and anti -inflammatory properties.
  • Ginger: It has anti -inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

2.3. Legal regulation of dietary supplements:

Unlike drugs, dietary supplements do not go through strict clinical trials to confirm their effectiveness and safety. Dad regulation is carried out according to a simplified procedure, and manufacturers are not required to prove their healing properties. This means that there may be many dietary supplements on the market with unproven efficiency and potentially dangerous composition. It is important to carefully study the composition of dietary supplements and consult a doctor before their use.

Section 3: Myths and reality on the effectiveness of dietary supplements for immunity

Around dietary supplements for immunity there are many myths and exaggerations that must be distinguished from scientifically sound facts. A critical analysis of scientific data and an objective assessment of information will help to make a balanced decision on the advisability of using dietary supplements to strengthen the immune system.

3.1. Myth: BAD can “strengthen” immunity.

Reality: The immune system is a complex and dynamic system that does not need to “strengthen” in the generally accepted sense. The goal is to maintain its optimal functioning. Most dietary supplements do not have a proven ability to “strengthen” immunity, that is, to make it stronger than it is normal. They can only help compensate for the deficiency of certain nutrients or support the normal function of immune cells. An exception may be cases when a person is diagnosed with immunodeficiency, but in this case, dietary supplements should be applied under the supervision of a doctor.

3.2. Myth: Bad can protect against influenza and colds.

Reality: Although some dietary supplements can have a slight effect on the duration or severity of the symptoms of influenza and colds, they are not reliable protection against these diseases. The most effective measures of influenza and colds remain vaccinations, observance of hygiene rules (regular hand washing), avoiding contact with sick people and a healthy lifestyle. Some studies show that the intake of vitamin C can slightly reduce the duration of the cold, but only with regular use before the onset of the disease.

3.3. Myth: The more dietary supplements, the better for immunity.

Reality: Reception of a large number of dietary supplements will not only not improve immunity, but can also be harmful to health. An overdose of vitamins and minerals can lead to toxic effects and disorder of the balance of nutrients in the body. It is important to adhere to the recommended dosages indicated on the package of dietary supplements, and consult a doctor before taking several dietary supplements at the same time.

3.4. Myth: Bad is natural and absolutely safe products.

Reality: Although many dietary supplements contain natural ingredients, this does not mean that they are absolutely safe. Some plant extracts can interact with drugs or cause side effects. In addition, the quality and composition of dietary supplements can vary depending on the manufacturer. It is important to choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers who conduct quality control of their products.

3.5. Myth: Autoimmune diseases can cure.

Reality: Bad is not a cure for autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune diseases are complex conditions in which the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues. Treatment of autoimmune diseases requires an integrated approach, including the use of drugs prescribed by a doctor. Some dietary supplements can help alleviate the symptoms of autoimmune diseases, but they cannot cure them.

3.6. Myth: Bad is effective for everyone.

Reality: The effectiveness of dietary supplements can vary depending on the individual characteristics of the body, the state of health and lifestyle of a person. What is effective for one person can be ineffective for another. It is important to consider individual needs and consult a doctor to determine which dietary supplements can be useful in a particular case.

Section 4: Scientific data on the effectiveness of specific dietary supplements for immunity

Despite the abundance of advertising and statements about the miraculous properties of dietary supplements for immunity, it is important to rely on scientific data when evaluating their effectiveness. This section presents an overview of the results of clinical research and scientific reviews devoted to the most popular dietary supplements for immunity.

4.1. Vitamin C:

Numerous studies studied the influence of vitamin C on the immune system. Met-analyzes showed that regular intake of vitamin C can slightly reduce the duration of the cold (by about one day) and reduce the severity of the symptoms, but only if the intake began before the onset of the disease. Vitamin C does not prevent a cold in most people. However, in people who are subjected to intensive physical stress (for example, athletes), the intake of vitamin C can reduce the risk of a cold.

4.2. Vitamin D:

Vitamin D plays an important role in the regulation of the immune system. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of infections of the upper respiratory tract, influenza and autoimmune diseases. The metamin D metamin-analysis can reduce the risk of developing upper respiratory tract infections, especially in people with vitamin D deficiency. However, additional studies are needed to determine the optimal dose and duration of vitamin D to strengthen immunity.

4.3. Zinc:

Zinc is necessary for the normal functioning of immune cells. Zinc deficiency can weaken the immunity and increase susceptibility to infections. Studies have shown that zinc intake can reduce the duration of a cold and reduce the severity of the symptoms, especially when taking 24 hours after the appearance of the first symptoms. However, high doses of zinc can cause side effects, such as nausea and vomiting.

4.4. SOUTINATEA:

Echinacea is a plant extract, which is traditionally used to treat colds and influenza. Some studies show that echinacea can stimulate the activity of immune cells and have antiviral properties. However, the results of the studies are contradictory, and additional studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of Echinacea.

4.5. Probiotics:

Probiotics are living microorganisms, which, when entering the intestine, have a positive effect on health. Probiotics can improve immunity by strengthening the intestinal barrier and stimulating the activity of immune cells. Some studies show that the intake of probiotics can reduce the risk of developing upper respiratory tract infections and diarrhea caused by antibiotics. However, the choice of probiotics should be individual, depending on specific strains and the purpose of use.

4.6. Garlic:

Garlic contains allicin, a substance with antimicrobial and anti -inflammatory properties. Some studies show that taking garlic can reduce the risk of colds and reduce the duration of the disease. However, additional studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of garlic.

Section 5: risks and side effects of dietary supplements for immunity

The use of dietary supplements for immunity is not always safe and may be accompanied by certain risks and side effects. It is important to realize potential dangers and take precautions in order to minimize negative consequences.

5.1. Uncontrolled quality and composition:

Unlike medicines, dietary supplements do not undergo strict quality control and safety. The composition of the dietary supplement may not correspond to the declared on the package, and they may contain impurities or pollutants. It is important to choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers who conduct quality control of their products and have appropriate certificates.

5.2. Interaction with drugs:

Some dietary supplements can interact with drugs by changing their effectiveness or increasing side effects. It is important to inform the doctor about all the dietary supplements in order to avoid undesirable interactions. For example, vitamin K can reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants (drugs that thin blood), and St. John’s wort can reduce the effectiveness of many drugs, including antidepressants and contraceptive tablets.

5.3. Side effects:

Reception of dietary supplements can cause side effects, especially when the recommended dosages are exceeded. Some dietary supplements can cause allergic reactions, digestive disorders (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), headache and other unpleasant symptoms. It is important to carefully study the composition of dietary supplements and stop taking it when any side effects appear.

5.4. The risk of an overdose:

Reception of high doses of vitamins and minerals can lead to toxic effects and impaired balance of nutrients in the body. For example, an overdose of vitamin C can cause digestive disorder and the formation of kidney stones, and an overdose of vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia (an increased level of calcium in the blood) and kidney damage.

5.5. Masks of serious diseases:

Reception of dietary supplements for “strengthening” immunity can disguise the symptoms of serious diseases such as immunodeficiency or autoimmune diseases. It is important to consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment if you have suspicions of a serious disease.

5.6. Risk for certain population groups:

Some dietary supplements can be contraindicated for certain population groups, such as pregnant and lactating women, children, elderly people and people with chronic diseases. It is important to consult a doctor before starting dietary supplements, especially if you belong to one of these groups.

Section 6: Alternative and complementary approaches to maintaining immunity

In addition to taking dietary supplements, there are other, more effective and safe ways to maintain the health of the immune system. An integrated approach, including a healthy lifestyle, proper nutrition and stress management, is the best way to strengthen immunity.

6.1. Healthy lifestyle:

  • Balanced nutrition: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low -fat protein sources provides the body with the necessary nutrients for the normal functioning of the immune system.
  • Regular physical activity: Moderate physical activity strengthen immunity, improve blood circulation and reduce stress.
  • Sufficient sleep: The lack of sleep worsens the function of immune cells. It is recommended to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day.
  • Stress management: Chronic stress suppresses the immune system. It is important to find ways to cope with stress, such as meditation, yoga or communication with friends and family.
  • Refusal of smoking and abuse of alcohol: Smoking and alcohol abuse negatively affect the immune system.

6.2. Proper nutrition:

  • Vitamins and minerals: The use of products rich in vitamins C, D, zinc and selenium can support the immune system.
  • Probiotics: The inclusion of fermented products in the diet, such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi, can improve intestinal health and strengthen immunity.
  • Prebiotics: The use of products rich in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, stimulates the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines.
  • Antioxidants: The use of products rich in antioxidants, such as berries, green tea and dark chocolate, protects the cells from damage to free radicals.

6.3. Vaccination:

Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect against infectious diseases. Vaccines stimulate the immune system to the production of antibodies, which provide protection against specific pathogens.

6.4. Hygiene:

Compliance with hygiene rules, such as regular hand washing, can significantly reduce the risk of infectious infections.

6.5. Herbal teas and infusions:

Some herbs, such as chamomile, echinacea and ginger, have anti -inflammatory and antioxidant properties and can help support immunity. However, before using herbal products you need to consult a doctor, especially if you have any chronic diseases or take medications.

Section 7: Criteria for choosing dietary supplements for immunity and recommendations

If you decide to take dietary supplement for immunity, it is important to make a conscious choice based on scientific data, individual needs and recommendations of a doctor.

7.1. Consultation with a doctor:

Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor in order to make sure their safety and expediency. The doctor can evaluate your health status, identify a feed of nutrients and give individual recommendations.

7.2. Study of the composition:

Carefully study the composition of dietary supplements and make sure that it does not contain the ingredients for which you may have allergies or intolerance. Pay attention to the dosage of active substances and make sure that it meets the recommended norms.

7.3. The choice of a reliable manufacturer:

Choose a dietary supplement from reliable manufacturers who conduct quality control of their products and have appropriate certificates. Pay attention to the reputation of the manufacturer and consumer reviews.

7.4. Checking the availability of clinical research:

Check if clinical studies have been conducted that confirm the effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements. Pay attention to the sample size, research methodology and results.

7.5. Risk assessment and side effects:

Evaluate potential risks and side effects of dietary supplements. Weigh the benefits and harm before deciding on admission.

7.6. Compliance with recommended dosages:

Strictly observe the recommended dosages indicated on the package of dietary supplements. Do not exceed the dosage to avoid side effects.

7.7. Health monitoring:

During the use of dietary supplements, follow your health and pay attention to any changes. If you have any side effects, stop taking and consult a doctor.

7.8. Do not replace the treatment of dietary supplements:

Do not use dietary supplements as a replacement for a full treatment prescribed by a doctor. Bad can be useful as an addition to the main treatment, but cannot replace it.

7.9. A critical approach to advertising:

Do not trust blindly advertising for dietary supplements, which promises miraculous results. Critically evaluate the information and rely on scientific data.

Section 8: The future of dietary supplement research for immunity

Studies in the field of dietary supplements for immunity are ongoing, and in the future new discoveries and developments can be expected.

  • Personalized approach: The development of personalized medicine will develop dietary supplements taking into account the individual genetic and physiological characteristics of a person.
  • Studying the influence of microbiots: Further studies of the intestinal microbiots and its influence on the immune system will lead to the development of new probiotic and prebiotic drugs to strengthen immunity.
  • Development of new immunomodulators: Studies in the field of immunology will develop new immunomodulators that will more effectively and safely regulate the activity of the immune system.
  • Improving the quality of clinical research: Improving the methodology of clinical research of dietary supplements will allow to receive more reliable data on their effectiveness and safety.
  • Development of new technologies: The development of new technologies, such as nanotechnology, will create a dietary supplement with improved bioavailability and purposeful action.

In conclusion, it is important to emphasize that dietary supplement for immunity is not a panacea and cannot replace a healthy lifestyle and full treatment. The use of dietary supplements should be conscious, justified and agreed with the doctor. The critical approach to information and support on scientific data will help to make a balanced decision on the advisability of receiving dietary supplements to strengthen the immune system.

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