Bad for immunity: Instructions for use

Bad for immunity: Instructions for use

I. Understanding immunity: Fundamentals and functions

A. What is immunity? Immunity is a complex biological system designed to protect the body from harmful external factors, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, as well as from their own changed cells (for example, cancer). It is a set of mechanisms that allow you to recognize and neutralize foreign substances and cells called antigens. Without the immune system, the body would be defenseless before the constant attack of microorganisms and is subject to the development of serious diseases.

B. Types of immunity:

1. Inborn immunity: This is the first line of defense of the body that existed from birth. It is not specific, that is, it reacts equally to a wide range of pathogens. Components of congenital immunity include:

   • Physical barriers: The skin, the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, the gastrointestinal tract, which prevent the penetration of microorganisms into the body.
   • Chemical barriers: Skin secretion (sweat, skin lard), saliva, tears, gastric juice containing antimicrobials, such as lysozyme.
   • Cell components: Phagocytes (macrophages, neutrophils) that absorb and destroy pathogens; Natural killers (NK cells) that destroy infected or cancer cells; Oblast cells involved in inflammatory reactions.
   • Inflammation: The body’s reaction to damage or infection, characterized by redness, edema, heat and pain. Inflammation helps to attract immune cells to the place of damage and the removal of pathogens.
   • Complement system: The cascade of blood proteins, which are activated when pathogens are detected and contribute to their destruction.

2. Acquired immunity (adaptive immunity): This type of immunity develops throughout life in response to the effects of specific antigens. It is characterized by the specificity and formation of immunological memory, which allows the body to more effectively respond to repeated meetings with the same antigen. The acquired immunity is divided into:

   • Humoral immunity: It is mediated by b-lymphocytes, which, when antigen activation, turn into plasma cells producing antibodies (immunoglobulins). Antibodies bind to antigens, neutralize them and facilitate their destruction by phagocytes or a complement system. There are various antibodies (IgG, IGM, IGA, IGE, IGD), each of which performs certain functions.
   • Cellular immunity: It is mediated by T-lymphocytes that directly destroy infected or cancer cells (cytotoxic T-lymphocytes, CTL) or help other immune cells (T-highpers). T-highpers secrete cytokines that regulate the immune response.

C. How the immune system works:

1. Antigen recognition: Immune cells (phagocytes, B-lymphocytes, T-lymphocytes) have receptors that allow them to recognize antigens.
2. Activation of the immune response: When connecting the antigen with the immune cell receptor, it is activated, which leads to proliferation (reproduction) and differentiation (specialization) of immune cells.
3. Antigen elimination: Activated immune cells destroy antigens in various ways: phagocytosis, antibodies neutralization, and the destruction of infected CTL cells.
4. Formation of immunological memory: After the elimination, antigen some B-lymphocytes and T-lymphocytes turn into memory cells, which live long and when you meet with the same antigen are quickly activated, ensuring a more effective immune response.

D. Factors affecting immunity: Many factors can affect the function of the immune system, both positively and negatively.

1. Age: The immune system of newborn and elderly people is less effective than in adults. In newborns, the immune system is not yet fully developed, and in the elderly there is its natural weakening (immuno -starting).
2. Genetics: A genetic predisposition plays a role in determining susceptibility to various infections and autoimmune diseases.
3. Nutrition: The lack of nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals and proteins, can weaken the immune system. A balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain products and low -fat sources of protein, is necessary to maintain normal immunity function.
4. Stress: Chronic stress can suppress the immune system due to the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol.
5. Dream: The lack of sleep can weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to infections.
6. Physical activity: Moderate physical activity can strengthen the immune system, while excessive loads can suppress it.
7. Chronic diseases: Chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and autoimmune diseases, can weaken the immune system.
8. Medicines: Some drugs, such as immunosuppressants and corticosteroids, can suppress the immune system.
9. Environment: Air pollution, the effects of toxins and radiation can weaken the immune system.
10. Vaccination: Vaccination stimulates the immune system to the production of immunological memory to specific pathogens, providing protection against infections.

II. Dad for immunity: review and mechanisms of action

A. What are dietary supplements? Bades (biologically active additives) are concentrates of natural or identical to natural biologically active substances, designed for direct intake with food or introduction into food products in order to enrich the ration with individual food or biologically active substances or complexes of such substances. Bades are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. They are used to maintain health, prevention of diseases and increase the functional activity of organs and systems of the body.

B. Classification of dietary supplements for immunity: Bades designed to maintain and strengthen the immune system can be classified according to the following criteria:

1. By composition:

   • Vitamin complexes: They contain various vitamins that are important for immune function, such as vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamins of group B, vitamin A, vitamin E.
   • Mineral complexes: Contain minerals necessary for immune function, such as zinc, selenium, iron, copper.
   • Plant extracts: They contain extracts of medicinal plants that have immunomodulating properties, such as echinacea, ginseng, astral, garlic, ginger.
   • Probiotics and prebiotics: They contain living microorganisms (probiotics) or substances that stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines (prebiotics). Healthy intestinal microbia plays an important role in immune function.
   • Amino acids: They contain amino acids necessary for the synthesis of immune cells and antibodies, such as glutamine, arginine, lysine.
   • Fatty acids: Contain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PNS), such as omega-3 fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory properties and can affect immune function.
   • Mushroom extracts: They contain extracts of medicinal mushrooms such as Reishi, Shiitak, Matake, Cordyceps, which contain beta-glucans and other substances that have immunomodulating properties.
   • Nucleotihoti: They contain nucleotides, construction blocks of DNA and RNA, which are necessary for the growth and functioning of immune cells.
   • Complex drugs: Contain a combination of various vitamins, minerals, plant extracts and other biologically active substances.

2. By the form of release:

   • Tablets: Convenient release form, easy to dose.
   • Capsules: Provide the protection of biologically active substances from the effects of gastric juice.
   • Powders: It can be dissolved in water or juice, convenient for children to receive.
   • Liquid forms: Syrups, drops, solutions. They are quickly absorbed, convenient for children and people with difficulty swallowing.
   • Chewing tablets and loafers: Convenient for children to receive, have a pleasant taste.

C. Mechanisms for the action of dietary supplements for immunity: Bades can affect the immune system in various ways:

1. Strengthening physical barriers: Some dietary supplements, such as vitamin A and zinc, contribute to maintaining the integrity of the mucous membranes, thereby strengthening physical barriers that prevent the penetration of pathogens into the body.
2. Inborn immunity stimulation: Some dietary supplements, such as echinacea and beta-glucans, stimulate the activity of phagocytes and NK cells, increasing the innate immune response.
3. Support for humoral immunity: Vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc are necessary for the synthesis of antibodies and the functioning of b-lymphocytes.
4. Support for cellular immunity: Vitamin D, zinc and selenium are necessary for the functioning of T-lymphocytes.
5. Regulation of inflammation: Omega-3 fatty acids and some plant extracts have anti-inflammatory properties and can modulate an inflammatory response, preventing its excessive activation and tissue damage.
6. Support for intestinal microbioma: Probiotics and prebiotics contribute to the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines, which, in turn, support the immune function, developing antimicrobial substances, stimulating the activity of immune cells and strengthening the intestinal barrier.
7. Antioxidant Protection: Vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium are antioxidants that protect immune cells from damage to free radicals.

D. The most popular and effective dietary supplements for immunity:

1. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): A powerful antioxidant necessary for the synthesis of collagen, the functioning of immune cells and antibodies. Participates in phagocytosis and has antiviral activity. Vitamin C deficiency can lead to weakening of immunity and increased susceptibility to infections. The recommended daily dose is 75-90 mg for adults, but during illness the dose can be increased.
2. Vitamin D (cholegalciferol): Plays an important role in the regulation of the immune system. Activates immune cells, modulates an inflammatory response and has antimicrobial activity. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of infections, autoimmune diseases and cancer. The recommended daily dose is 600-800 IU for adults, but can be increased depending on the level of vitamin D in the blood.
3. Zinc: It is necessary for the functioning of immune cells, DNA and RNA synthesis, wound healing and inflammation regulation. Zinc deficiency can lead to a weakening of immunity and increased susceptibility to infections. Zinc is especially important for the function of thymus, where T-lymphocytes ripen. The recommended daily dose is 8-11 mg for adults.
4. Selenium: The antioxidant necessary for the functioning of immune cells and protect them from damage by free radicals. Selena deficiency can lead to a weakening of immunity and increased susceptibility to infections. Selenium also plays a role in the regulation of inflammation and activity of NK cells. The recommended daily dose is 55 μg for adults.
5. SOUTINATEA: Plant extract with immunomodulating properties. It stimulates the activity of phagocytes and NK cells, increases the production of interferon and has antiviral activity. Echinacea can help reduce the duration and severity of colds.
6. Probiotics: Living microorganisms that benefit the owner’s health when consumed in adequate quantities. Probiotics strengthen the intestinal barrier, stimulate the activity of immune cells and produce antimicrobial substances. Regular use of probiotics can help improve immune function and reduce the risk of infections. The most studied and applied childbirth Lactobacillus And Bifidobacterium.
7. Beta-glucan: Polysaccharides contained in the cell walls of mushrooms, yeast and some plants. Beta-glucans stimulate the activity of macrophages and NK cells, increase the production of cytokines and improve the immune response.
8. Ginseng: A plant extract with adaptogenic and immunomodulating properties. Ginseng increases the body’s resistance to stress, stimulates the activity of immune cells and improves the immune response.
9. Garlic: Contains allicin with antimicrobial, antiviral and antifungal properties. Garlic stimulates the activity of immune cells and helps to protect the body from infections.
10. Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA): Polyunsaturated fatty acids with anti -inflammatory properties. Omega-3 fatty acids modulate the immune response, reduce the risk of autoimmune diseases and improve the function of immune cells.

III. Instructions for the use of dietary supplements for immunity

A. General recommendations:

1. Consultation with a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplements, especially if you have chronic diseases, you take medicines or pregnant/breastfeed, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor will help to determine which dietary supplements you need and in what doses.
2. Choice of Bad: Choose dietary supplements from trusted manufacturers with good reputation and quality certificates. Pay attention to the composition of the dietary supplement, the dosage of active substances and the presence of contraindications.
3. Dosage compliance: Strictly observe the recommended dosage indicated on the Bad package or prescribed by a doctor. Exceeding the dosage can lead to side effects.
4. Regularity of reception: To achieve the maximum dietary effect, it is recommended to take regularly, during the recommended course.
5. Storage conditions: Keep dietary supplements in accordance with the instructions on the packaging, in the place inaccessible to children.
6. Individual intolerance: Carefully follow your condition during the admission of dietary supplements. When any side effects appear (allergic reactions, digestive disorders, etc.) stop taking dietary supplements and consult a doctor.
7. Medicine compatibility: Some dietary supplements can interact with medicines. Consult a doctor about the compatibility of the dietary supplements that you plan to take, with the medicines that you are already taking.
8. Not a replacement for treatment: Bades are not a replacement for the full treatment of diseases. They can only be used as an addition to the main treatment prescribed by a doctor.

B. Instructions for the use of the most popular dietary supplements:

1. Vitamin C:

   • Output form: Tablets, capsules, powder, chewing tablets, sparkling tablets.
   • Dosage: Recommended daily dose for adults: 75-90 mg. During illness, the dose can be increased to 500-1000 mg per day, divided into several doses.
   • Method of application: Take during meals, washed down with enough water.
   • Contraindications: Individual intolerance, increased blood coagulation, thrombophlebitis, diabetes (high doses).
   • Special instructions: Long -term use of high doses of vitamin C can lead to the formation of stones in the kidneys.

2. Vitamin D:

   • Output form: Drops, capsules, tablets, chewing tablets.
   • Dosage: Recommended daily dose for adults: 600-800 IU. The dose can be increased depending on the level of vitamin D in the blood, as prescribed by the doctor.
   • Method of application: Take during food containing fats for better absorption.
   • Contraindications: Individual intolerance, hypervitaminosis D, hypercalcemia, renal failure.
   • Special instructions: Before taking vitamin D, it is recommended to take a blood test to the level of vitamin D.

3. Zinc:

   • Output form: Tablets, capsules, loafers.
   • Dosage: Recommended daily dose for adults: 8-11 mg.
   • Method of application: Take during meals, washed down with enough water.
   • Contraindications: Individual intolerance, renal failure.
   • Special instructions: With prolonged use of zinc in high doses, the absorption of copper may be disturbed.

4. SOUTINATEA:

   • Output form: Tablets, capsules, tincture, tea.
   • Dosage: Follow the instructions on the packaging. Typically, 300-500 mg of echinacea extract is taken 2-3 times a day.
   • Method of application: Take during meals, washed down with enough water. Tincture can be diluted in a small amount of water.
   • Contraindications: Individual intolerance, autoimmune diseases, pregnancy, breastfeeding.
   • Special instructions: It is not recommended to take echinacea for a long time (more than 8 weeks).

5. Probiotics:

   • Output form: Capsules, tablets, powder, liquid forms.
   • Dosage: Follow the instructions on the packaging. The dosage depends on the type and amount of bacteria in the drug.
   • Method of application: Take on an empty stomach or during meals, drinking enough water.
   • Contraindications: Individual intolerance.
   • Special instructions: During the use of antibiotics, probiotics should be taken no earlier than 2-3 hours after taking the antibiotic.

C. Recommendations for the use of dietary supplements for different age groups:

1. Children: Bad for children should be selected with particular caution, given the age, weight and state of health of the child. It is recommended to use special children’s forms of release (syrups, chewing tablets) and strictly observe the dosage indicated on the packaging. Consultation with a pediatrician is mandatory before taking any dietary supplements.
2. Teenagers: The need for vitamins and minerals in adolescents is increased due to active growth and development. Bades can be useful for maintaining immunity, especially during increased loads (school, sports). Consultation with a doctor or nutritionist is recommended for selecting the optimal complex of dietary supplements.
3. Adults: To maintain immunity, adults recommend a balanced diet, a healthy lifestyle and the use of dietary supplements containing vitamins, minerals and plant extracts. The choice of dietary supplements depends on individual needs and health status.
4. Elderly people: In older people, the immune system is weakened, so it is especially important for them to support it with the help of dietary supplements. The use of vitamin D, vitamin C, zinc and selenium is recommended. Consultation with a doctor is mandatory before taking any dietary supplements.
5. Pregnant and lactating women: Reception of dietary supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding requires special caution and mandatory consultation with a doctor. Some dietary supplements may be contraindicated in this period.

IV. Side effects and contraindications of dietary supplements for immunity

A. Possible side effects:

1. Allergic reactions: Rashes on the skin, itching, urticaria, Quincke’s edema, anaphylactic shock (rarely).
2. Digestive disorders: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain.
3. Headache: Rarely.
4. Improving blood pressure: Rarely, when taking dietary supplements containing ginseng.
5. Violation of blood coagulation: When taking high doses of vitamin C.
6. The formation of kidney stones: With prolonged use of high doses of vitamin C.
7. Hypervitaminosis: With prolonged use of high doses of vitamins.

B. Contraindications:

1. Individual intolerance: Allergy for the component of the contonent.
2. Autoimmune diseases: For some dietary supplements (echinacea).
3. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: For some dietary supplements.
4. Childhood: For some dietary supplements.
5. Severe liver and kidney diseases: Consultation with a doctor is required.
6. Increased blood coagulation: For high doses of vitamin C.

C. Interaction with drugs:

1. Vitamin C: It can enhance the action of anticoagulants.
2. Vitamin D: It can strengthen the action of diuretics.
3. Zinc: It can reduce the absorption of antibiotics of the tetracycline row.
4. SOUTINATEA: It can interact with immunosuppressants.
5. Ginseng: It can enhance the effect of anticoagulants and stimulating drugs.

V. Life and immunity: Synergy with dietary supplements

A. Balanced nutrition:

1. Sufficient protein consumption: Proteins are necessary for the synthesis of immune cells and antibodies. Include low -fat meat, poultry, fish, eggs, legumes, nuts and seeds in your diet.
2. A variety of fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber, which are necessary to maintain immune function. Eat at least 5 portions of fruits and vegetables per day.
3. Whole grain products: All -grain products are rich in fiber, which contributes to the health of the intestines and immunity. Choose whole grain bread, pasta, rice and oatmeal.
4. Healthy fats: Omega-3 fatty acids contained in fatty fish, nuts and seeds have anti-inflammatory properties and can improve immune function.
5. Restriction of sugar consumption, processed products and alcohol: These products can weaken the immune system.

B. Regular physical activity:

1. Moderate loads: Regular moderate physical exertion, such as walking, jogging, swimming, cycling, can strengthen the immune system. It is recommended to engage in physical activity at least 150 minutes a week.
2. Avoid overtraining: Excessive physical activity can suppress the immune system.
3. Do what you like: This will help you adhere to regular classes.

C. Sufficient sleep:

1. Sleep at least 7-8 hours a day: The lack of sleep can weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to infections.
2. Observe sleep mode: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on the weekend.
3. Create comfortable sleeping conditions: Dark, quiet and cool room.

D. Stress management:

1. Use relaxation techniques: Meditation, yoga, breathing exercises can help reduce stress.
2. Take a hobby: Find the lesson that you like and which helps you relax.
3. Spend time with loved ones: Communication with friends and family can help reduce stress.
4. Turn to the psychologist for help: If you experience chronic stress, seek help from a psychologist.

E. Refusal of smoking:

1. Smoking weakens the immune system: Smoking damages the lungs and worsens the function of immune cells.
2. Quit smoking: This will improve your health and strengthen the immune system.

F. Hygiene:

1. Wash your hands with soap regularly: This will help prevent the spread of infections.
2. Avoid touching your face: Hands are often in contact with contaminated surfaces, so avoid touching the face, especially the mouth, nose and eyes.
3. Improver the room: Regular ventilation of the room will help reduce the concentration of viruses and bacteria in the air.

G. Vaccination:

1. Vaccination protects against infectious diseases: Vaccines stimulate the immune system to the production of immunological memory to specific pathogens.
2. Follow the vaccination calendar: Regularly vaccinated in accordance with the vaccination calendar.

VI. Choice of Bad: Criteria and Quality Assessment

A. Choice criteria:

1. Composition: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement. Make sure that it contains active ingredients in sufficient dosage, confirmed by scientific research.
2. Output form: Select the output form that is most convenient to you (tablets, capsules, powder, liquid).
3. Manufacturer: Choose dietary supplements from trusted manufacturers with good reputation and quality certificates.
4. Reviews: Read the reviews of other buyers about the dietary supplement.
5. Price: Compare the prices of dietary supplements of different manufacturers.
6. Availability of certificates: Make sure that dietary supplement has quality certificates (for example, GMP).
7. Doct’s recommendations: Consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplement.

B. Bad quality assessment:

1. Quality certificates: Pay attention to the availability of quality certificates such as GMP (good manufacturing practice), ISO, HACCP. These certificates confirm that the dietary supplement is produced in accordance with high quality standards.
2. Independent examination: Some dietary supplements undergo an independent examination in laboratories that check their composition and safety. The results of the examination can be available on the manufacturer’s website or in the reviews of buyers.
3. Clinical research: If the dietary supplement has passed clinical research, this is an additional confirmation of its effectiveness and safety.
4. Reputation manufacturer: Study the reputation of the manufacturer. Find out how long the company has been operating in the market, what reviews about its products, and what certificates it has.
5. Package: Bad packaging should be airtight, protecting the product from the effects of light, moisture and air. The packaging should indicate complete information about the composition, dosage, method of application, contraindications, storage conditions and shelf life.

C. How to distinguish high -quality dietary supplement from fake:

1. Price: Too low price may indicate a fake.
2. Package: Carefully inspect the packaging. It should be of high quality, with a clear seal and without errors in the text.
3. Information about the manufacturer: The packaging should indicate complete information about the manufacturer (name, address, phone, site).
4. Certificates: Make sure the dietary supplement has quality certificates.
5. Place of purchase: Buy dietary supplements only in trusted pharmacies and online stores.
6. The appearance of the product: Pay attention to the appearance of the product (tablets, capsules, powder). It must correspond to the description on the package.

VII. Prospects for using dietary supplements for immunity

A. Individual approach: In the future, more and more attention will be paid to an individual approach to maintaining immunity using dietary supplements. Based on the genetic analysis and analysis of the intestinal microbioma, it will be possible to determine which dietary supplements are most effective for a particular person.

B. Development of new dietary supplements: The development of new dietary supplements containing more effective and safe ingredients continues. In particular, dietary supplements based on plant extracts, mushroom extracts, probiotics and prebiotics are developed.

C. Integration with modern medicine: Bades are increasingly integrated in modern medicine as an addition to the main treatment of diseases. The doctor may recommend the intake of dietary supplements to maintain immunity during the treatment of infectious diseases, autoimmune diseases and cancer.

D. Prevention of diseases: Bades can be used to prevent diseases, especially in risk groups (children, elderly people, people with chronic diseases). Regular intake of dietary supplements can help strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of infections.

E. Immunomodulating therapy: Bades can be used as immunomodulating therapy to correct disorders in the immune system. The doctor may prescribe a dietary supplement to stimulate immunity in immunodeficiency states or to suppress immunity in autoimmune diseases.

F. Personalized nutrition: The development of personalized nutrition will develop individual diets enriched with the necessary vitamins, minerals and other biologically active substances. Bades can be used as an addition to a personalized diet to achieve optimal health and immunity.

VIII. Questions and answers (FAQ)

A. Can dietary supplements replace good nutrition? No, dietary supplements cannot replace good nutrition. They are designed to supplement the diet with separate food or biologically active