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Support for immunity: Dad rating (100,000 Words)
Section 1: understanding of immunity and factors affecting it
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1.1. What is immunity?
Immunity is a complex system of protecting the body from pathogenic agents, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites and other foreign substances. It includes many components that work in agreement for recognition, neutralization and elimination of threats. Immunity can be divided into two main categories: congenital and acquired.
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Inborn immunity: This is the first line of protection of the body present from birth. He reacts quickly and nonspecific to a wide range of threats. Components of congenital immunity include:
- Physical barriers: skin, mucous membranes, tears, saliva, gastric juice.
- Cells: macrophages, neutrophils, NK cells (natural killers), dendritic cells.
- Squirrels: complement, cytokines (interferons, interleukins), lysozyme.
- Inflammation: an important process that helps attract immune cells to the place of infection and stimulate their activity.
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Acquired immunity: Also known as adaptive immunity, develops throughout life in response to specific antigens (substances that cause an immune response). It is characterized by specificity and memory, allowing the body to more effectively fight repeated infections. The acquired immunity is divided into:
- Cellular immunity: is carried out by T-lymphocytes (T-cells), which directly destroy infected cells or coordinate the immune response. There are different types of T cells:
- T-highpers (CD4+): help other immune cells, such as B-lymphocytes and cytotoxic T-lymphocytes.
- Cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CD8+): kill cells infected with viruses or other intracellular pathogens.
- Regulatory T cells: suppress the immune response to prevent autoimmune reactions.
- Humoral immunity: is carried out by B-lymphocytes (V-cells), which produce antibodies (immunoglobulins). Antibodies are associated with antigens and neutralize them or marked to destroy other immune cells. There are various antibodies:
- IGM: The first class of antibodies produced in response to infection.
- IgG: The main class of antibodies in the blood that provides long -term protection.
- IGA: prevails in the mucous membranes, protecting from respiratory tract infections, gastrointestinal tract and genitourinary system.
- Ige: participates in allergic reactions and protection against parasites.
- IGD: The function is not completely studied.
- Cellular immunity: is carried out by T-lymphocytes (T-cells), which directly destroy infected cells or coordinate the immune response. There are different types of T cells:
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1.2. Factors affecting immunity
The effectiveness of the immune system depends on many factors, both internal (genetic) and external (lifestyle, environment). A decrease in immunity can lead to increased susceptibility to infections, a more severe course of diseases and a slow recovery.
- Age: The immune system weakens with age (immune aging), which makes elderly people more vulnerable to infections. In children, the immune system is not yet fully developed, which also increases their susceptibility.
- Nutrition: Insufficient or unbalanced nutrition, especially the deficiency of vitamins (A, C, D, E, B6, B12, folic acid) and minerals (zinc, selenium, iron, copper), weakens the immune system. Excessive sugar consumption and processed products also negatively affects immunity.
- Stress: Chronic stress suppresses the immune system, increasing the risk of infections. Stress causes the release of hormones, such as cortisol, which can reduce the activity of immune cells.
- Lack of sleep: The lack of sleep (less than 7-8 hours a day) weakens the immune system, making a person more susceptible to infections. During sleep, the body produces cytokines that help regulate the immune response.
- Physical activity: Moderate physical activity strengthens the immune system, improving blood circulation and stimulating the activity of immune cells. However, excessive physical activity can, on the contrary, suppress immunity.
- Bad habits: Smoking and abuse of alcohol significantly weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of developing respiratory infections, cancer and other diseases.
- Health status: Chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, kidney and HIV/AIDS diseases, weaken the immune system. Some drugs, such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, also suppress immunity.
- Genetic factors: Some genetic factors can affect the function of the immune system, making a person more susceptible to certain infections or autoimmune diseases.
- Environment: Air pollution, the effects of toxic chemicals and radiation can weaken the immune system.
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1.3. Symptoms of immunity reduction
Signs of weakened immunity can be different and vary from lungs to severe. It is important to pay attention to the following symptoms:
- Frequent infections: Frequent colds, flu, tonsillitis, bronchitis, pneumonia and other infectious diseases.
- Long -term recovery: Slow recovery after diseases and injuries.
- Chronic fatigue: Constant fatigue and weakness, not passing after rest.
- Skin rashes: Frequent skin infections, eczema, psoriasis and other skin diseases.
- Digestive problems: Frequent disorders of the stomach, diarrhea, constipation and other digestive problems.
- Slow wound healing: Wounds and cuts heal slowly.
- Recurrent infections: Frequent relapses of herpes, thrush and other infections.
- Inflammation of the lymph nodes: Increased lymph nodes.
- Allergic reactions: Strengthening allergic reactions.
- Autoimmune diseases: The development of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and multiple sclerosis.
Section 2: Dietrs to support immunity: review and classification
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2.1. What is dietary supplements and their role in supporting immunity
Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) 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 substances or complexes of substances, as well as to maintain the normal functioning of the body. Bades are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases, but they can be useful for maintaining immunity and general health, especially with deficiency of certain nutrients. It is important to understand that dietary supplements should be considered as an addition to a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, regular physical activity and stress management.
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2.2. Classification of dietary supplements to support immunity
Bades to support immunity can be classified according to various criteria, including the composition, mechanism of action and target audience. Here are some basic categories:
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Vitamins:
- Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): a powerful antioxidant that stimulates the activity of immune cells and protects them from damage by free radicals.
- Vitamin D (cholegalciferol): plays an important role in the regulation of the immune response, especially in relation to viral infections.
- Vitamin A (Retinol): It is necessary to maintain the health of the mucous membranes, which are an important barrier against infections.
- Vitamin E (tocopherol): an antioxidant that protects immune cells from damage to free radicals and improves their function.
- B vitamins B (B6, B12, folic acid): participate in various metabolic processes necessary for the functioning of the immune system.
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Minerals:
- Zinc: plays an important role in the development and functioning of immune cells, as well as in wound healing.
- Selenium: an antioxidant that protects immune cells from damage to free radicals and improves their function.
- Iron: it is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, which transfers oxygen to cells, including immune cells.
- Copper: participates in various enzymatic reactions necessary for the functioning of the immune system.
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Plant extracts and herbs:
- Echinacea: stimulates the activity of immune cells and can reduce the duration of the cold.
- Black Buzina (Sambucus Nigra): It has antiviral properties and can alleviate the symptoms of influenza and colds.
- Ginseng: adaptogen, which helps the body adapt to stress and strengthens the immune system.
- Smallwood andrographis (Andrographis Paniculata): has anti -inflammatory and antiviral properties.
- Astragalus Astragalus Mambranaceus: stimulates the activity of immune cells and can help protect against infections.
- Garlic: has antimicrobial and antiviral properties.
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Probiotics and prebiotics:
- Probiotics: living microorganisms that bring health benefits, improving the composition of the intestinal microbiota. A healthy intestinal microbiota plays an important role in strengthening the immune system.
- Prebiotics: undigested dietary fiber that serve as food for beneficial bacteria in the intestines.
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Other biologically active substances:
- Beta-glucans: polysaccharides that stimulate the activity of immune cells.
- Coenzyme Q10 (COQ10): an antioxidant that protects the cells from damage by free radicals and improves their function.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: have anti-inflammatory properties and can improve the function of immune cells.
- Colostrum (colostrum): contains antibodies and other immune factors that can help protect against infections.
- Kurkumin: has anti -inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
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2.3. Mechanisms for the action of dietary supplements on the immune system
Bades can have various effects on the immune system, depending on their composition and mechanism of action. Some dietary supplements stimulate the activity of immune cells, others protect them from damage, and others improve the function of barrier tissues, such as mucous membranes. Here are some main mechanisms of action:
- Stimulation of the activity of immune cells: Some dietary supplements, such as echinacea, astral and beta-glucans, can stimulate the activity of macrophages, NK cells and other immune cells, increasing their ability to recognize and destroy pathogens.
- Antioxidant Protection: Vitamins C and E, Selenium and Coenzym Q10 are antioxidants that protect immune cells from damage by free radicals formed during metabolism and inflammation.
- Regulation of the immune response: Vitamin D plays an important role in the regulation of an immune response, helping to maintain a balance between pro -inflammatory and anti -inflammatory processes.
- Support for the health of the mucous membranes: Vitamin A is necessary to maintain the health of the mucous membranes, which are an important barrier against infections. Probiotics and prebiotics improve the composition of the intestinal microbiots, which also plays an important role in maintaining the health of the intestinal mucosa.
- Antiviral and antimicrobial activity: Some dietary supplements, such as black and garlic, have antiviral and antimicrobial properties that can help fight infections.
- Adaptogenic action: Ginseng and other adaptogens help the body adapt to stress, which can suppress the immune system.
Section 3: Rating of dietary supplements to support immunity: detailed analysis
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3.1. Criteria for evaluating dietary supplements
When drawing up a rating of dietary supplements, the following criteria were taken into account to support immunity:
- Composition: The presence of scientifically sound ingredients with proven effectiveness to maintain immunity.
- Dosage: Compliance of the dosage of ingredients with recommended daily standards and the results of clinical studies.
- Quality: The presence of quality certificates (for example, GMP) confirming compliance with production and safety standards.
- Bioavailability: The ability of ingredients is effectively absorbed by the body.
- Safety: The absence of contraindications and side effects subject to the recommended dosage.
- Clinical research: The presence of clinical studies confirming the effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements.
- Consumer reviews: Evaluation of consumer reviews about the product.
- Price: The ratio of the price and quality of the product.
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3.2. Top dietary supplement to support immunity
Note: This rating is subjective and is based on the analysis of available information. Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor.
1. Vitamin D3:
- Description: Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) plays a key role in the immune system. It contributes to the activation of T cells and macrophages that play an important role in the fight against infections. Vitamin D3 also participates in the regulation of inflammatory processes.
- Advantages: Widely studied, proven effectiveness to support immunity, especially in the winter, when there is not enough sunlight. Available in various forms (drops, tablets, capsules).
- Flaws: An overdose can lead to hypercalcemia. Vitamin D levels are required in the blood, especially with prolonged use of high doses.
- Recommended dosage: Depends on the level of vitamin D in the blood. It is usually recommended 1000-2000 IU per day to maintain a normal level. Higher doses can be prescribed by a doctor with a deficiency of vitamin D.
- Examples of products: «Solgar Vitamin D3», «Now Foods Vitamin D-3», «Doctor’s Best Vitamin D3».
2. Vitamin C:
- Description: Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a powerful antioxidant that protects immune cells from damage to free radicals. It also stimulates the production and function of leukocytes that play an important role in the fight against infections.
- Advantages: It is widely available, relatively inexpensive, has antioxidant properties, stimulates the activity of immune cells.
- Flaws: It can cause disorders of the gastrointestinal tract at high doses.
- Recommended dosage: 500-1000 mg per day.
- Examples of products: «Now Foods C-1000», «Solgar Vitamin C 1000 mg», «Doctor’s Best Vitamin C with Quali-C».
3. Zinc:
- Description: Zinc plays an important role in the development and functioning of immune cells, including T cells, B cells and NK cells. It is also necessary for healing wounds and maintaining the health of the mucous membranes.
- Advantages: It is important for the functioning of the immune system, contributes to the healing of wounds, supports the health of the mucous membranes.
- Flaws: It can cause nausea and vomiting at high doses. Long -term intake of high doses can lead to copper deficiency.
- Recommended dosage: 15-30 mg per day.
- Examples of products: «Now Foods Zinc Picolinate», «Solgar Zinc Picolinate», «Life Extension Zinc Caps».
4. Social About:
- Description: Echinacea is a plant extract that stimulates the activity of immune cells, such as macrophages and NK cells. It can help reduce the duration and severity of the cold.
- Advantages: It stimulates the activity of immune cells, can reduce the duration of a cold.
- Flaws: It can cause allergic reactions in some people. It is not recommended to take people with autoimmune diseases.
- Recommended dosage: Depends on the type of echinacea and form of release. Follow the instructions on the packaging.
- Examples of products: «Nature’s Way Echinacea», «Gaia Herbs Echinacea Supreme», «Herb Pharm Echinacea Extract».
5. Black Buzina (Sambucus Nigra):
- Description: Black Buzina contains antioxidants and has antiviral properties. She can help alleviate the symptoms of flu and colds.
- Advantages: It has antiviral properties, relieves the symptoms of influenza and colds.
- Flaws: It can cause disorders of the gastrointestinal tract in some people.
- Recommended dosage: Depends on the form of release. Follow the instructions on the packaging.
- Examples of products: «Sambucol Black Elderberry», «Nature’s Way Sambucus», «Gaia Herbs Black Elderberry Syrup».
6. Probiotics:
- Description: Probiotics are living microorganisms that bring health benefits, improving the composition of the intestinal microbiots. A healthy intestinal microbiota plays an important role in strengthening the immune system.
- Advantages: The composition of the intestinal microbiots improve the composition, strengthen the immune system, and support the health of the digestive system.
- Flaws: They can cause bloating and other disorders of the gastrointestinal tract at the beginning of the reception.
- Recommended dosage: Depends on the strain and the product. Follow the instructions on the packaging.
- Examples of products: «Culturelle Digestive Health Probiotic», «Align Probiotic», «Renew Life Ultimate Flora Probiotic».
7. Beta-glucan:
- Description: Beta-glucans are polysaccharides that stimulate the activity of immune cells, such as macrophages and NK cells.
- Advantages: They stimulate the activity of immune cells, can increase resistance to infections.
- Flaws: They can cause disorders of the gastrointestinal tract in some people.
- Recommended dosage: Depends on the source and product. Follow the instructions on the packaging.
- Examples of products: «Now Foods Beta-Glucans», «Doctor’s Best Beta Glucan», «Transfer Point Beta 1,3D Glucan».
8. Ginseng:
- Description: Ginseng is an adaptogen that helps the body adapt to stress and strengthens the immune system.
- Advantages: Adaptogen, helps the body adapt to stress, strengthens the immune system.
- Flaws: It can cause insomnia and an increase in blood pressure in some people. It is not recommended to take people with high blood pressure or sleep problems.
- Recommended dosage: Depends on the type of ginseng and form of release. Follow the instructions on the packaging.
- Examples of products: «Nature’s Bounty Ginseng», «Gaia Herbs Ginseng», «Korean Red Ginseng Extract».
9. Selenium:
- Description: Selenium is an antioxidant that protects immune cells from damage by free radicals and improves their function.
- Advantages: Antioxidant, protects immune cells, improves their function.
- Flaws: An overdose can lead to toxicity.
- Recommended dosage: 55-200 mcg per day.
- Examples of products: «Now Foods Selenium», «Solgar Selenium», «Life Extension Super Selenium Complex».
10. Colostum (Colostrum):
- Description: Colostrum contains antibodies and other immune factors that can help protect against infections.
- Advantages: Contains antibodies and other immune factors, can help protect against infections.
- Flaws: It can cause disorders of the gastrointestinal tract in some people.
- Recommended dosage: Depends on the product. Follow the instructions on the packaging.
- Examples of products: «Symbiotics Colostrum Plus», «California Gold Nutrition Colostrum», «Now Foods Colostrum».
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3.3. Combinations of dietary supplements to enhance the effect
Some dietary supplements can have a synergistic effect with joint administration. Here are a few examples:
- Vitamin D3 + Vitamin K2: Vitamin K2 helps to direct calcium into the bone, preventing its deposition in soft tissues, which can be important when taking high doses of vitamin D3.
- Vitamin C + zinc: Vitamin C enhances zinc absorption, and zinc, in turn, is necessary for the functioning of immune cells, which are stimulated by vitamin C.
- Probiotics + Prebiotics: Prebiotics serve as food for probiotics, improving their survival and colonization in the intestines.
- Echinacea + Vitamin C: The combination of echinacea, stimulating immune cells, and vitamin C, which has antioxidant properties, can be more effective for combating a cold.
Section 4: How to choose the right dietary supplement to support immunity
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4.1. Consultation with a doctor
Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor will be able to evaluate your health status, identify possible contraindications and choose the optimal dosage. It is especially important to consult a doctor if you have chronic diseases, you take drugs or pregnant or breastfeeding.
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4.2. Study of composition and dosage
Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement and make sure that it contains the ingredients with proven effectiveness to maintain immunity. Pay attention to the dosage of each ingredient and compare it with the recommended daily norms and the results of clinical studies. Avoid dietary supplements with an unclear composition or too low dosages.
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4.3. The choice of a reliable manufacturer
Choose dietary supplements from famous and reliable manufacturers who have a good reputation and comply with quality standards. Make sure that the product has quality certificates (for example, GMP), confirming compliance with production and safety standards.
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4.4. Analysis of consumer reviews
Read consumer reviews about the product to find out about their experience. Pay attention to reviews about the efficiency, safety and side effects of dietary supplements. However, do not rely only on reviews, as they can be subjective.
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4.5. Accounting for individual needs
When choosing a dietary supplement, take into account your individual needs and features. For example, if you are allergic to certain ingredients, avoid products containing them. If you have a deficiency of certain nutrients, choose dietary supplements that make up for them.
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4.6. Price and quality assessment
Evaluate the ratio of the price and quality of the product. Not always the most expensive dietary supplement is the best. Compare the prices and compositions of various products and select the one that offers the optimal combination of price and quality.
Section 5: Life Life to maintain immunity: integrated approach
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5.1. Balanced diet
A balanced diet is the basis of strong immunity. The diet should include products rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other useful substances.
- Fruits and vegetables: Use a variety of fruits and vegetables, especially rich in vitamins C, A and E, as well as antioxidants. It is recommended to use at least 5 portions of fruits and vegetables per day.
- Squirrels: Proteins are necessary for the production of immune cells and antibodies. Include low -fat meat, poultry, fish, eggs, legumes and nuts in the diet.
- Healthy fats: Omega-3 fatty acids contained in oily fish, linen seed and walnuts have anti-inflammatory properties and can improve the function of immune cells.
- Whole grain products: All -grain products are rich in fiber, which supports the health of the intestinal microbiots and strengthens the immune system.
- Products rich in probiotics: Use yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut and other fermented products containing probiotics.
Limit the consumption of sugar, processed products, trans fats and alcohol, as they can weaken the immune system.
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5.2. A sufficient dream
The lack of sleep weakens the immune system, making a person more susceptible to infections. Try to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day. Observe sleep mode, go to bed and get up at the same time every day. Create comfortable sleeping conditions, provide silence and darkness in the bedroom.
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5.3. Regular physical activity
Moderate physical activity strengthens the immune system, improves blood circulation and stimulates the activity of immune cells. Make sports or other types of physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day most of the week. However, avoid excessive physical exertion, as they can, on the contrary, suppress immunity.
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5.4. Stress management
Chronic stress suppresses the immune system, increasing the risk of infections. Find effective ways to control stress, such as meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, natural walks or communication with close people.
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5.5. Rejection of bad habits
Smoking and alcohol abuse significantly weaken the immune system. Refuse smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
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5.6. Hygiene observance
Compliance with hygiene helps to prevent the spread of infections. Wash your hands with soap regularly, especially after visiting public places, before eating and after coughing or sneezing. Avoid touching your face with dirty hands.
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5.7. Vaccination
Vaccination is an effective way to protect against infectious diseases. Make all the necessary vaccinations in accordance with the doctor’s recommendations.
Section 6: dietary supplements to support immunity in children
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6.1. Features of immunity in children
The immune system of children is not yet fully developed, which makes them more susceptible to infections. The immunity of newborns is provided by maternal antibodies, which are transmitted through the placenta and breast milk. However, over time, the level of maternal antibodies decreases, and the child begins to produce his own antibodies. It is important to maintain the child’s immune system with proper nutrition, sufficient sleep and other measures.
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6.2. Safe dietary supplements for children
Not all dietary supplements are suitable for children. Before taking any dietary supplement, the child needs to consult a pediatrician. The doctor will be able to assess the state of health of the child, identify possible contraindications and choose the optimal dosage.
Some safe dietary supplements for children:
- Vitamin D3: Vitamin D3 is necessary for the health of bones and the immune system. It is recommended to give vitamin D3 to all children, especially in winter.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant and stimulates the activity of immune cells.
- Probiotics: Probiotics improve the composition of the intestinal microbiots and strengthen the immune system.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and can improve the function of immune cells.
Avoid giving children dietary supplements containing plant extracts or other potentially allergenic ingredients without consulting a doctor.
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6.3. Dosages of dietary supplements for children
The dosage of dietary supplements for children depends on the age, weight and state of health of the child. Follow the recommendations of the pediatrician and instructions on the packaging. Do not exceed the recommended dosage.
Section 7: dietary supplements to support immunity in the elderly
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7.1. Features of immunity in the elderly
The immune system weakens with age (immune aging), which makes elderly people more vulnerable to infections. The amount and function of immune cells decreases, antibodies are worsening and wound healing slows down. It is important to maintain the immune system of older people with the help of proper nutrition, sufficient sleep, regular physical activity and dietary supplements if necessary.
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7.2. Recommended dietary supplements for the elderly
Some dietary supplements can be especially useful for the elderly:
- Vitamin D3: Older people often experience vitamin D, which is necessary for the health of bones and the immune system.
- Vitamin B12: Older people often experience problems with the absorption of vitamin B12, which is necessary for the functioning of the nervous system and immunity.
- Zinc: Zinc plays an important role in the development and functioning of immune cells.
- Probiotics: Probiotics improve the composition of the intestinal microbiots and strengthen the immune system.
- Coenzim Q10 (COQ10): COQ10 is an antioxidant that protects cells from damage by free radicals and improves their function.
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7.3. Dosages of dietary supplements for the elderly
Dosage of dietary supplements for the elderly