Immunomodulating dietary supplements: Expert selection

Immunomodulating dietary supplements: Expert selection

I. Understanding the immune system and the need for immunomodulation

A. Fundamentals of the immune system

1. Inborn immunity: The first line of defense, represented by physical barriers (leather, mucous membranes), cellular components (macrophages, neutrophils, NK cells) and molecular factors (cytokines, complement). It operates immediately, but nonspecific. Inflammation is a key mechanism.
   • Physical barriers: The skin is an impenetrable barrier with antimicrobial peptides. The mucous membranes — mechanical removal of pathogens with cilia and secretion of mucus.
   • Cell components:
     • Macrophages: Pathogens are phagocytized, cytokines representing antigens of T cells are secreted. There are resident macrophages in tissues (histiocytes, Kupfer cells).
     • Neutrophils: The most numerous leukocytes; They quickly migrate to the place of inflammation, phagocytes pathogens and release cytotoxic substances.
     • NK cells (natural killers): Destroy infected cells and tumor cells, releasing cytotoxic granules.
   • Molecular factors:
     • Cytokines: Signal molecules regulating immune answers (interleukins, interferons, tumor necrosis factor).
     • Complement system: The cascade of proteins that enhance phagocytosis, causing inflammation and lisis of target cells.
2. Acquired immunity (adaptive immunity): It develops over time after contact with antigens. It is characterized by specificity and immunological memory. Includes humoral and cellular immunity.
   • Humoral immunity: Mediated by b-lymphocytes, which are differentiated into plasma cells producing antibodies (immunoglobulins). Antibodies neutralize pathogens, oppose them for phagocytosis and activate the complement system.
     • IgG: The most common type of antibodies; Participates in neutralization of toxins, opsonization and activation of complement. It is transmitted from mother to fruit, providing passive immunity.
     • IgM: The first antibody synthesized with the primary immune response.
     • IgA: It is present in the mucous membranes, protecting the respiratory tract from infections, the gastrointestinal tract and the genitourinary system.
     • IgE: Participates in allergic reactions and protection against parasitic infections.
     • IgD: The function is not fully studied; Participates in the activation of b-lymphocytes.
   • Cellular immunity: Mediated by T-lymphocytes.
     • T-highpers (CD4+ T cells): The immune answers are regulated by activating B lymphocytes and cytotoxic T lymphocytes. TH1, Th2, Th17 and other subtypes are distinguished, each of which secrees various cytokines and participates in various immune reactions.
     • Cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CD8+ T cells): Destroy infected cells and tumor cells, recognizing antigens presented on the surface of these cells.
     • Regulatory T-lymphocytes (Treg): Sold immune answers, preventing autoimmune reactions and maintaining immunological tolerance.
3. The organs of the immune system:
   • Primary lymphoid organs: The bone marrow (production of lymphocytes) and Timus (maturation of T-lymphocytes).
   • Secondary lymphoid organs: Lymphatic nodes, spleen, tonsils, peyerovs (places of meeting of lymphocytes with antigens and activation of immune answers).

B. Factors affecting the function of the immune system

1. Age: The immune system is less effective in infants and elderly people.
   • Infants: Immunity of the immune system; Dependence on maternal antibodies (IgG). Slow development of adaptive immunity.
   • Elderly people (immunostation): Reducing the function of thymus (less new T-lymphocytes), reduction in the activity of NK cells, violation of the response of antibodies to vaccination, chronic inflammation of the low level (Inflammaging).
2. Nutrition: The lack of nutrients (vitamins, minerals, protein) can weaken the immune system.
   • Vitamin D: Regulates the function of immune cells; The deficit is associated with an increased risk of infections.
   • Vitamin C: Antioxidant; Supports the function of phagocytes and lymphocytes.
   • Zinc: Necessary for the development and functioning of immune cells; The deficit weakens immunity.
   • Selenium: Antioxidant; Supports the function of immune cells.
   • Iron: Necessary for the functioning of immune cells; Deficiency or excess can disrupt immunity.
   • Protein: It is necessary for the production of antibodies and cytokines.
3. Stress: Chronic stress can suppress the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections. The release of cortisol (stress hormone) can suppress the function of immune cells.
4. Dream: The lack of sleep weakens the immune system, increasing the risk of infections. During sleep, cytokines are produced that are important to regulate immunity.
5. Chronic diseases: Diabetes mellitus, kidney diseases, autoimmune diseases and HIV infection weaken the immune system.
6. Medicines: Immunosuppressors (corticosteroids, cytostatics) and some other drugs (for example, some antibiotics) can suppress the immune system.
7. The effects of toxins: Environmental pollution, smoking and alcohol use can weaken the immune system.
8. Microbiotic intestinal: The composition of the intestinal microbiots affects the development and functioning of the immune system. Dysbiosis (microbiotic balance) can weaken the immune system.

C. When is immunomodulation necessary?

1. Frequent infections: Recurrent respiratory infections, herpes, candidiasis indicate a possible weakening of the immune system. A doctor’s consultation is necessary to exclude other reasons.
2. Chronic inflammatory diseases: Autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus), allergic diseases (asthma, eczema) are characterized by an imbalance of the immune system that requires modulation. However, immunomodulation in this case should be carried out under the strict supervision of a doctor.
3. Oncological diseases: The immune system plays an important role in the fight against tumors. Immunomodulation can be used as additional therapy to enhance antitumor immunity (immunotherapy).
4. Recovery after illness: After the infections or surgical interventions, the immune system can be weakened. Immunomodulation can help accelerate recovery.
5. Prevention of infections (during epidemics): During periods of increased incidence (influenza, SARS), immunomodulation can help increase infections resistance. However, the effectiveness of the preventive use of immunomodulating agents remains the subject of discussions.
6. Age changes: In older people with an age -related decrease in immunomodulation, immunomodulation can help improve the immune response.

D. The importance of consulting a doctor:

• Immunomodulating dietary supplements are not a replacement for full treatment.
• Before using any immunomodulating agents, it is necessary to consult a doctor to exclude contraindications and determine the need to use them.
• Self -medication can be dangerous.

II. Overview of immunomodulating dietary supplements

A. Classification of immunomodulating dietary supplements in composition

1. Plant immunomodulators: Contain extracts of plants with immunomodulating properties.
   • SOUTINATEA: It stimulates phagocytosis, increases the activity of NK cells, and increases interferon products. The most studied plant immunomodulator. There are various types of echinacea (E. purpurea, E. angustifolia, E. pallida), each of which contains various active substances.
     • Active substances: Alkylamides, polysaccharides, glycoproteins, flavonoids.
     • The mechanism of action: Activation of macrophages, stimulation of cytokine products, increased activity of NK cells.
     • Output forms: Extracts, tinctures, tablets, capsules.
   • Ginseng: It has adaptogenic and immunomodulating properties. Improves the function of T-lymphocytes, increases stress resistance. Contains ginzenosides — active substances with different mechanisms of action.
     • Active substances: Ginzenosides (RB1, RG1, Re, etc.).
     • The mechanism of action: Modulation of immune cells, antioxidant effects, adaptogenic effect.
     • Output forms: Extracts, capsules, tablets, powders.
   • Astragal: It stimulates the function of immune cells, has antioxidant and antiviral properties. Contains polysaccharides, saponins and flavonoids.
     • Active substances: Polysaccharides (Astragalus Polysaccharides, APS), Saponins, flavonoids.
     • The mechanism of action: Activation of macrophages, stimulation of interleukin-2 products, antioxidant effects.
     • Output forms: Extracts, capsules, tablets.
   • Garlic: It has antimicrobial, antiviral and immunomodulating properties. Contains allicin — an active substance with a wide range of action.
     • Active substances: Allicin, Alliin, Diallilsulfid.
     • The mechanism of action: Antimicrobial effect, stimulation of immune cells, antioxidant effects.
     • Output forms: Capsules, tablets, powders, extracts.
   • Rose hip: It is rich in vitamin C, has antioxidant and immunomodulating properties.
     • Active substances: Vitamin C, flavonoids, carotenoids.
     • The mechanism of action: Antioxidant effect, stimulation of immune cells.
     • Output forms: Syropes, extracts, dried fruits.
   • Chinese lemonnik: It has adaptogenic and immunomodulating properties. Contains cheaters — active substances that improve the function of the immune system and increase stress resistance.
     • Active substances: Schisandrins (a, b, c).
     • The mechanism of action: Adaptogenic effect, stimulation of immune cells, antioxidant effects.
     • Output forms: Extracts, tinctures, capsules.
2. Vitamin-mineral complexes: Contain vitamins and minerals necessary for the normal function of the immune system.
   • Vitamin D: It regulates the function of immune cells, the deficiency is associated with an increased risk of infections.
     • The mechanism of action: It is associated with the vitamin D (VDR) receptor on immune cells, regulating the expression of genes involved in the immune response.
     • Output forms: Drops, tablets, capsules. (Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is preferable than vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol).).
   • Vitamin C: Antioxidant supports the function of phagocytes and lymphocytes.
     • The mechanism of action: Antioxidant action, participation in the synthesis of collagen, support of the function of immune cells.
     • Output forms: Tablets, capsules, powders, sparkling tablets.
   • Zinc: It is necessary for the development and functioning of immune cells, the deficiency weakens immunity.
     • The mechanism of action: Participation in enzymatic reactions, regulation of the function of immune cells.
     • Output forms: Tablets, capsules, syrups. (Various zinc forms have different bioavailability: zinc picoline, zinc citrate, zinc gluconate).
   • Selenium: Antioxidant supports the function of immune cells.
     • The mechanism of action: Participation in the work of glutathioneperoxidase (antioxidant enzyme), support for the function of immune cells.
     • Output forms: Tablets, capsules. (Selenometerine — the most bioavailable form of selenium).
   • B vitamins B: Important for energy metabolism and functioning of immune cells.
     • Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxin): It is necessary for the synthesis of antibodies and lymphocytes.
     • Vitamin B12 (cobalamin): It is necessary to divide cells and functioning of the nervous system.
     • Folic acid (vitamin B9): It is necessary for dividing cells and DNA synthesis.
3. Probiotics and prebiotics: They normalize the intestinal microbiota, which positively affects the immune system.
   • Probiotics: Living microorganisms that benefit health in sufficient amounts. The most common birth: Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Saccharomyces.
     • The mechanism of action: Competition with pathogenic microorganisms, stimulation of immune cells, products of short -chain fatty acids (KCHK), improvement of the barrier function of the intestine.
     • Output forms: Capsules, tablets, powders, yogurts.
   • Prebiotics: Unbertable food ingredients that contribute to the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the intestines. Examples: inulin, fructoligosaccharides (phos), galactooligosaccharides (state).
     • The mechanism of action: They serve food for beneficial bacteria, stimulating their growth and activity.
     • Output forms: Powers, capsules, tablets.
4. Nucleic acid derivatives:
   • Inozin pranobex (ISOPRINOSINE): It stimulates the function of T-lymphocytes and NK cells, has antiviral activity. (It is not a dietary supplement in many countries, refers to drugs).
5. Glucked (beta-glucan):
   • Beta-glucan: Polysaccharides contained in the cell walls of mushrooms, bacteria and cereals. They stimulate immune cells, especially macrophages.
     • The mechanism of action: They are associated with receptors on macrophages, activating them and stimulating the release of cytokines.
     • Output forms: Capsules, tablets, powders.
6. Other immunomodulating dietary supplements:
   • Collostum (Colostrum): Contains immunoglobulins, growth factors and other biologically active substances that support the immune system.
     • The mechanism of action: Passive immunization (providing antibodies), stimulation of tissue growth and regeneration.
     • Output forms: Capsules, tablets, powders.
   • N-Acetylcistein (NAC): Antioxidant, mucolytic, has immunomodulating properties.
     • The mechanism of action: Antioxidant effect, mucolytic effect, regulation of the function of immune cells.
     • Output forms: Capsules, tablets, powders.
   • Curcumin: The active component of turmeric, has antioxidant, anti -inflammatory and immunomodulating properties.
     • The mechanism of action: Antioxidant effect, anti -inflammatory effect, regulation of the function of immune cells.
     • Output forms: Capsules, tablets, powders.

B. The mechanisms of action of immunomodulating dietary supplements

1. Fagocytosis stimulation: Strengthening the ability of macrophages and neutrophils to absorb and destroy pathogens. Echinacea, beta-glucans.
2. Activation of NK cells: An increase in the activity of natural killers that destroy infected and tumor cells. Echinacea, Inozin pranobex.
3. Strengthening the products of cytokines: Stimulation of the production of interleukins, interferons and other cytokines that regulate immune answers. Echinacea, Astragal.
4. Regulation T-cell immunity: Modulation of the function of T-character and cytotoxic T-lymphocytes. Ginseng, Inozin pranobex.
5. Normalization of intestinal microbiots: Improving the composition and functioning of the intestinal microbiota, which positively affects the immune system. Probiotics, prebiotics.
6. Antioxidant action: Protection of immune cells from damage by free radicals. Vitamin C, Selenium, Kurkumin.

C. Forms of release and methods of application

1. Tablets and capsules: Convenient release form, easy to dose.
2. Extracts and tinctures: Liquid forms of release can be added to drinks.
3. Powders: You can add to drinks or food.
4. Syrups: Suitable for children.
5. Application schemes: Usually courses, duration and dosage depend on the drug and individual characteristics.

III. The choice of immunomodulating dietary supplements: Guide for experts

A. The selection criteria

1. Composition: Study the composition of the drug, make sure that it contains ingredients with proven efficiency and safety.
2. Dosage: Pay attention to the dosage of active substances, it must correspond to the recommended.
3. Output form: Choose a convenient form of release for you.
4. Manufacturer: Give preference to well -known and reliable manufacturers with a good reputation.
5. Availability of quality certificates: Make sure that the product has quality certificates (for example, GMP).
6. Reviews: Check out the reviews of other users, but do not rely only on them.
7. Consultation with a doctor: Be sure to consult a doctor before using any immunomodulating dietary supplements.

B. Immunomodulating dietary supplements for different categories of patients

1. For children:
   • Vitamin D (Prevention of rickets and immunity support).
   • Probiotics (with dysbiosis and to strengthen immunity).
   • Vitamin C (during colds).
   • Caution with plant immunomodulators (echinacea, ginseng).
2. For adults:
   • Vitamin D (especially in winter).
   • Vitamin C.
   • Zinc.
   • Selenium.
   • Probiotics (when taking antibiotics and to maintain intestinal health).
   • Echinacea (during the cold).
   • Ginseng (with fatigue and stress).
3. For older people:
   • Vitamin D.
   • Vitamin C.
   • Zinc.
   • Selenium.
   • Probiotics.
   • Omega-3 fatty acids (to maintain heart health and immunity).
   • Coenzym Q10 (to support energy exchange).

C. Cautions and contraindications

1. Allergic reactions: Individual intolerance to the components of the drug.
2. Autoimmune diseases: Some immunomodulating dietary supplements can stimulate the immune system and worsen the course of autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus). In autoimmune diseases, the use of immunomodulating agents is possible only under the strict supervision of a doctor.
3. Pregnancy and lactation: Some immunomodulating dietary supplements are contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation.
4. Medicine compatibility: Immunomodulating dietary supplements can interact with some drugs, changing their effectiveness or causing side effects. It is necessary to consult a doctor about the compatibility of immunomodulating dietary supplements with the drugs taken.
5. Long -term use: Long -term use of some immunomodulating dietary supplements can lead to undesirable effects. It is necessary to observe the recommended duration of the course of admission.

D. Important points when choosing and using

1. Individual approach: The choice of immunomodulating dietary supplements should be individual and take into account the characteristics of the body, the state of health and lifestyle.
2. Complex approach: Immunomodulating dietary supplements should be considered as part of an integrated approach to strengthening immunity, including healthy diet, sufficient sleep, physical activity and stress management.
3. Do not replace treatment: Immunomodulating dietary supplements are not a replacement for the full treatment of diseases.
4. State control: When using immunomodulating dietary supplements, it is necessary to control their condition and, if any undesirable effects occur, stop taking and see a doctor.

IV. Scientific research and evidence base

A. Clinical studies of the effectiveness of immunomodulating dietary supplements

1. SOUTINATEA: Numerous clinical studies have shown that echinacea can reduce the duration and severity of colds. However, the research results are contradictory, which is associated with the differences in the types of echinacea used, dosages and research methodologies.
2. Vitamin D: Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of infections. Vitamin D additives can reduce the risk of respiratory infections, especially in people with vitamin D. deficiency.
3. Zinc: Zinc supplements can reduce the duration of a cold, especially if you start taking them in the first days of the disease.
4. Probiotics: Probiotics can reduce the risk and duration of diarrhea associated with antibiotics, as well as improve the function of the immune system.
5. Ginseng: Some studies have shown that ginseng can improve the function of the immune system and reduce the risk of respiratory infections.
6. Other dietary supplements: The effectiveness of other immunomodulating dietary supplements (astral, garlic, rosehip, colloostrum) requires further research.

B. meta analyzes and systematic reviews

• Met-analyzes and systematic reviews allow us to evaluate the totality of data obtained in various clinical studies.
• Some meta analyzes confirm the effectiveness of echinacea, vitamin D and zinc in the prevention and treatment of respiratory infections.
• However, it must be borne in mind that the quality of studies included in meta analyzes can be different, which can affect the results.

C. The need for further research

• Further well -planned clinical studies are needed to confirm the efficiency and safety of many immunomodulating dietary supplements.
• It is important to conduct research using standardized plant extracts and clearly determine the dosage of active substances.
• It is necessary to study the mechanisms of action of immunomodulating dietary supplements at the molecular level.

V. Practical recommendations for the use of immunomodulating dietary supplements

A. When and how to take immunomodulating dietary supplements

1. Preventive technique: During periods of increased incidence (autumn-winter), vitamin D, vitamin C, zinc, selenium and probiotics to strengthen immunity can be taken.
2. At the first signs of the disease: When the first signs of colds appear (runny nose, sore throat), you can begin to take echinacea, vitamin C and zinc.
3. After illness: To restore immunity after the disease, vitamins, minerals and probiotics can be taken.
4. Compliance with the instructions: Take immunomodulating dietary supplements in accordance with the instructions for use.
5. Do not exceed the dosage: Do not exceed the recommended dosage.
6. Curs ahead: Take immunomodulating dietary supplements with courses, the duration of which is determined by the doctor.

B. A combination of immunomodulating dietary supplements with other methods of strengthening immunity

1. Healthy nutrition: Use products rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants (fruits, vegetables, berries, herbs, nuts, seeds, fish, meat).
2. Sufficient sleep: Sleep at least 7-8 hours a day.
3. Physical activity: Do physical exercises for at least 30 minutes a day.
4. Stress management: Avoid stressful situations or learn to cope with stress (meditation, yoga, breathing exercises).
5. Refusal of smoking and restriction of alcohol use: Smoking and drinking alcohol weaken the immune system.
6. Regular ventilation of the room and wet cleaning: Improves air quality and reduces the risk of infections.
7. Compliance with personal hygiene rules: Wash your hands with soap regularly.
8. Vaccination: Timely vaccination against influenza, pneumococcal infection and other diseases helps to protect against infections.

C. How to evaluate the effectiveness of immunomodulating dietary supplements

1. Reducing the frequency and severity of diseases: Evaluate whether you have become less likely to hurt and easier to endure diseases after the start of taking immunomodulating dietary supplements.
2. Improving overall well -being: Evaluate whether your overall well -being has improved (energy, sleep, mood).
3. Blood tests: If necessary, you can pass blood tests to assess the state of the immune system (the number of leukocytes, the level of immunoglobulins).

VI. The prospects for the development of the market of immunomodulating dietary supplements

A. New ingredients and technologies

1. Search for new plant immunomodulators: Research on the search for new plants with immunomodulating properties continues.
2. Using nanotechnologies: Nanotechnologies can be used to improve the delivery of active substances of immunomodulating dietary supplements to the cells of the immune system.
3. Development of personalized immunomodulating complexes: Personalized immunomodulating complexes are developed, taking into account the individual characteristics of the body and genetic profile.
4. Research microbiotic and development of new probiotics: Active studies of microbiots are conducted and new probiotics with improved properties are being developed.

B. Regulation of the market of immunomodulating dietary supplements

1. Tighten the requirements for quality and safety: The tightening of the requirements for the quality and safety of immunomodulating dietary supplements is expected.
2. Requirements for the evidence base: It is expected that manufacturers of immunomodulating dietary supplements will have to provide more convincing evidence of the effectiveness of their products.
3. Information of consumers: It is necessary to improve consumer informing about immunomodulating dietary supplements so that they can make a conscious choice.

C. Market trends

1. Growth of popularity: Further growth in the popularity of immunomodulating dietary supplements is expected, which is associated with an increase in people’s awareness of the importance of immunity and the desire for a healthy lifestyle.
2. Office of online sales: The development of online sales of immunomodulating dietary supplements is expected.
3. Personalization: An increase in demand for personalized immunomodulating complexes is expected.

VII. Conclusion: Immunomodulating dietary supplements are a tool for maintaining health, requiring a responsible approach

• Immunomodulating dietary supplements can be a useful tool for maintaining health and strengthening immunity, but their use requires a crucial approach.
• It is necessary to take into account the individual characteristics of the body, the state of health and lifestyle.
• Be sure to consult a doctor before using any immunomodulating dietary supplements.
• Consider immunomodulating dietary supplements as part of an integrated approach to strengthening immunity, including healthy diet, sufficient sleep, physical activity and stress management.
• Follow new research and trends in the market of immunomodulating dietary supplements.