Health Formula “: Dietary dietary supplements
I. Immunity: the guardian of our health
A. Definition and importance of the immune system.
The immune system is a complex and multi -level network of cells, tissues and organs that protects the body from pathogens, viruses, parasites, fungi and other harmful substances. It is critical for maintaining health and survival, as it provides constant monitoring and destruction of potential threats. Without a functioning immune system, the body would be vulnerable to constant infections and diseases.
Immunity plays a key role in:
- Protection against infections: Recognition and destruction of pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites.
- Removal of damaged cells: The destruction of old, damaged or mutated cells, which can lead to cancer.
- Maintaining homeostasis: Regulation of inflammatory processes and maintaining the balance in the body.
- Protection against autoimmune diseases: Prevention of the attack of the immune system on the body’s own tissues.
B. Types of immunity: congenital and acquired.
Immunity can be divided into two main types: congenital and acquired.
-
Inborn immunity: This is the first line of protection of the body that is present from birth. It provides an immediate, but non -specific response to the invasion of pathogens. The components of congenital immunity include:
a. Physical barriers: Leather, mucous membranes, saliva, tears and other body fluids that prevent the penetration of pathogens. B. Cell components: Phagocytes (neutrophils, macrophages), NK cells (natural killers), dendritic cells that destroy pathogens by phagocytosis or cytotoxicity. C. Chemical mediators: Cytokines (interleukins, interferons, TNF alpha), complement, which stimulate the inflammatory response and activate other components of the immune system.
-
Acquired immunity: This is a more complex and specific type of immunity that develops throughout life as a result of contact with antigens (molecules that are recognized by the immune system as foreign). The acquired immunity is characterized by “immunological memory”, which allows the body to respond faster and more efficiently to repeated contacts with the same antigens. The acquired immunity is divided into:
a. Humoral immunity: Mediated by b-lymphocytes, which produce antibodies (immunoglobulins), specifically binding to antigens and neutralizing them or freezing to destroy other cells of the immune system. B. Cellular immunity: It is mediated by T-lymphocytes that directly destroy infected cells (cytotoxic T cells) or activate other cells of the immune system (T-highpers).
C. Factors affecting immunity: lifestyle, nutrition, stress.
Many factors can affect the function of the immune system, both positively and negatively. These include:
-
Life:
a. Dream: The lack of sleep weakens the immune system, making the body more vulnerable to infections. It is recommended to sleep 7-8 hours a day. B. Physical activity: Moderate physical activity strengthens the immune system, improves blood circulation and reduces stress. However, excessive physical activity can suppress the immune function. C. Smoking: Smoking damages the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, reduces the activity of phagocytes and suppresses the function of T-lymphocytes, making the body more susceptible to respiratory tract infections. D. Alcohol: Excessive alcohol use weakens the immune system, disrupts the liver function and increases the risk of infections.
-
Nutrition:
a. Balanced nutrition: A variety of diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, low -fat protein and healthy fats, provides the body with the necessary nutrients to maintain the normal function of the immune system. B. Nutrient deficiency: Vitamin deficiency (A, C, D, E, B6, B12), minerals (zinc, iron, selenium, copper) and trace elements can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of infections. C. Immunity weakening products: Excessive consumption of sugar, processed products, fast food and trans fats can suppress the immune function and increase the risk of inflammatory diseases.
-
Stress:
a. Chronic stress: Chronic stress causes the release of stress hormones (cortisols), which suppress the function of the immune system, reduce the activity of the NK cells and increase the risk of infections and autoimmune diseases. B. Stress management: Stress management methods, such as meditation, yoga, breathing exercises and communication with loved ones, can help reduce stress and strengthen the immune system.
D. When the support of immunity is required: symptoms and signs of weakened immunity.
It is not always easy to determine whether the immune system needs support. However, there are certain symptoms and signs that may indicate weakened immunity:
- Frequent infections: Frequent colds, flu, respiratory tract infections, herpes, candidiasis and other infections that are difficult to treat or often recur.
- Slow wound healing: Wounds, cuts and scratches heal slowly and are subject to infections.
- Chronic fatigue: A constant feeling of fatigue, weakness and exhaustion, which does not pass after rest.
- Digestive problems: Frequent digestive disorders, such as bloating, constipation, diarrhea and abdominal pain.
- Allergic reactions: Strengthening allergic reactions or the development of new allergies.
- Skin rashes: Frequent skin rashes, itching, eczema or psoriasis.
- Increased lymph nodes: An increase in lymph nodes in the neck, armpits or groin.
- Autoimmune diseases: The development of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus or Hashimoto disease.
In the presence of these symptoms, consult a doctor to diagnose and prescribe the appropriate treatment. Support for immunity may include a change in lifestyle, improving power and receiving dietary supplements for immunity.
II. Bad for immunity: assistants in the struggle for health
A. What is dietary supplements and their role in maintaining immunity.
Dietary supplements (biologically active additives) are concentrates of natural or identical to natural biologically active substances designed for direct intake or introduction into food products in order to enrich the rations with individual food or biologically active substances and their complexes. Bades are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. However, they can be useful for maintaining health, including to strengthen immunity.
Dietary supplements for immunity can contain various vitamins, minerals, plant extracts and other biologically active substances that contribute to the normal function of the immune system. They can help:
- Strengthen the immune system: Increase the activity of immune cells, improve antibody production and enhance protection against infections.
- Fill the deficiency of nutrients: Provide the body with the necessary vitamins, minerals and trace elements that are important for the normal function of the immune system.
- Reduce inflammation: Reduce inflammatory processes in the body that can weaken the immune system.
- Improve the overall state of health: Increase energy level, reduce fatigue and improve overall well -being.
B. The main components of dietary supplements for immunity: vitamins, minerals, plant extracts and others.
The most common and effective components of dietary supplements for immunity include:
-
Vitamins:
a. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): A powerful antioxidant that protects the cells from damage by free radicals, stimulates the production of leukocytes and improves the function of immune cells. B. Vitamin D: It is important for activating immune cells, regulating inflammatory processes and maintaining bone health. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of developing infections and autoimmune diseases. C. Vitamin A (Retinol): It is necessary to maintain the health of the mucous membranes, which are a barrier to the penetration of pathogens. Participates in the differentiation of immune cells and regulates inflammatory processes. D. Vitamin E (Tokoferol): An antioxidant that protects cells from damage by free radicals and improves the function of immune cells. E. B vitamins B: Important for energy exchange, DNA and RNA synthesis, as well as for the normal function of the nervous system. B vitamins deficiency can weaken the immune system.
-
Minerals:
a. Zinc: It is necessary for the development and functioning of immune cells, the synthesis of antibodies and wound healing. Zinc deficiency is associated with an increased risk of infections. B. Selenium: An antioxidant that protects cells from damage by free radicals and improves the function of immune cells. Participates in the regulation of inflammatory processes and antibodies synthesis. C. Iron: It is necessary for the transfer of oxygen and the normal function of immune cells. Iron deficiency can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of infections. D. Copper: Participates in the synthesis of enzymes necessary for the normal function of immune cells.
-
Plant extracts:
a. SOUTINATEA: It stimulates the immune system, increases the activity of phagocytes and increases the production of interferons. It has antiviral and antibacterial effects. B. Garlic: Contains allicin, which has antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal effects. Improves the function of immune cells and reduces the risk of infections. C. Ginger: It has anti -inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Improves blood circulation and strengthens the immune system. D. Ginseng: Adaptogen, which helps the body adapt to stress and strengthens the immune system. Increases the activity of immune cells and reduces the risk of infections. E. Black Black: It has an antiviral effect and can help reduce the duration and severity of a cold and influenza. f. Andrographis blizzard: It has anti -inflammatory, antiviral and immunomodulating effects.
-
Other biologically active substances:
a. Probiotics: Living microorganisms that have a beneficial effect on the intestinal microflora. Improve digestion, strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of infections. B. Prebiotics: Drill fibers that serve as food for probiotics. They stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines and improve digestion. C. Beta-glucan: Polysaccharides, which stimulate the immune system, increase the activity of phagocytes and increase the production of cytokines. D. Colostrum (colostrum): Contains antibodies, growth factors and other biologically active substances that strengthen the immune system and protect against infections. E. Omega-3 fatty acids: They have anti -inflammatory effects and improve the function of immune cells.
C. Vitamin C: powerful antioxidant and immunostimulator.
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is one of the most important vitamins for the immune system. It performs many functions that help strengthen immunity and protect against infections:
- Antioxidant Protection: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects the cells from damage by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that are formed as a result of metabolism and environmental exposure (air pollution, ultraviolet radiation, tobacco smoke). They can damage cells, DNA and proteins, which leads to the development of various diseases, including infections, inflammatory diseases and cancer. Vitamin C neutralizes free radicals, preventing their destructive effect on the body.
- Stimulation of immune cells: Vitamin C stimulates the production and activity of leukocytes (white blood cells), which are key components of the immune system. It increases the number of neutrophils, lymphocytes and macrophages that play an important role in the destruction of pathogens and infected cells.
- Improving the function of phagocytes: Vitamin C improves the function of phagocytes, cells that absorb and destroy bacteria, viruses and other foreign substances. It increases their ability to chemotaxis (movement to the focus of inflammation) and phagocytosis (absorption and destruction of pathogens).
- Strengthening antibodies: Vitamin C promotes the production of antibodies (immunoglobulins), which specifically bind to antigens (molecules that are recognized by the immune system as alien) and neutralize them or mark them to destroy other cells of the immune system.
- Maintaining the health of the mucous membranes: Vitamin C is necessary for the synthesis of collagen, protein, which is the main component of connective tissue. It strengthens the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, the gastrointestinal tract and the genitourinary system, which are barriers to the penetration of pathogens.
- Reducing the duration and severity of the cold: Vitamin C can help reduce the duration and severity of the cold. Studies have shown that taking vitamin C in high doses at the first signs of colds can reduce the symptoms and accelerate recovery.
- Anti -inflammatory action: Vitamin C has an anti -inflammatory effect and can help reduce inflammatory processes in the body that can weaken the immune system.
The recommended daily dose of vitamin C is 75-90 mg for adults. However, during the period of illness or with weakened immunity, the dose can be increased to 500-1000 mg per day. Vitamin C can be obtained from fruits and vegetables (citrus fruits, kiwi, strawberries, bell pepper, broccoli) or dietary supplements.
D. Vitamin D: the immune system regulator and protection against infections.
Vitamin D, also known as “Solar Vitamin”, plays an important role in regulating the immune system and protecting against infections. It performs the following functions:
- Activation of immune cells: Vitamin D activates immune cells, such as macrophages, T-lymphocytes and B lymphocytes, which play an important role in the fight against infections. It binds to vitamin D receptors on these cells and launches a cascade of biochemical reactions that enhance their function.
- Regulation of inflammatory processes: Vitamin D regulates inflammatory processes in the body. It can suppress an excessive inflammatory reaction, which can be harmful to the body. The disadvantage of vitamin D can lead to an increase in inflammation, which can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of chronic diseases.
- Stimulation of the production of antimicrobial peptides: Vitamin D stimulates the production of antimicrobial peptides, such as Katelicidin and defensin, which have antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal effects. These peptides destroy pathogens and protect the body from infections.
- Maintaining the health of the mucous membranes: Vitamin D is necessary to maintain the health of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, the gastrointestinal tract and the genitourinary system, which are barriers to the penetration of pathogens. It strengthens the mucous membranes and increases their resistance to infections.
- Reducing the risk of developing autoimmune diseases: Vitamin D can help reduce the risk of developing autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. It regulates the function of immune cells and prevents the attack of the immune system on the body’s own tissues.
- Prevention of respiratory infections: Studies have shown that vitamin D intake can help reduce the risk of respiratory infections, such as flu and colds. It strengthens the immune system and increases the body’s resistance to viruses and bacteria.
The recommended daily dose of vitamin D is 600-800 IU for adults. However, during the period of illness or with weakened immunity, the dose can be increased to 2000-4000 IU per day. Vitamin D can be obtained from sunlight, fatty fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel), egg yolk and enriched products (milk, yogurt, cereals) or dietary supplements. It is important to check the level of vitamin D in the blood and consult a doctor before taking dietary supplements with vitamin D.
E. Zinc: An important mineral for immune function.
Zinc is an important trace element that plays a key role in the immune function. It is involved in many biological processes necessary for the normal operation of the immune system:
- Development and functioning of immune cells: Zinc is necessary for the development and functioning of immune cells, such as T-lymphocytes, B-lymphocytes and NK cells. It is involved in differentiation, proliferation and activation of these cells.
- Antibody synthesis: Zinc is necessary for the synthesis of antibodies (immunoglobulins), which specifically bind to antigens and neutralize them or measure to destroy other cells of the immune system.
- Fagocytes function: Zinc improves the function of phagocytes, cells that absorb and destroy bacteria, viruses and other foreign substances. It increases their ability to chemotaxis and phagocytosis.
- Regulation of inflammatory processes: Zinc regulates inflammatory processes in the body. It can suppress an excessive inflammatory reaction, which can be harmful to the body.
- Wound healing: Zinc is necessary for healing wounds. It is involved in the synthesis of collagen, protein, which is the main component of connective tissue.
- Antioxidant Protection: Zinc is a component of the antioxidant enzyme of superoxidsmouth (SOD), which protects the cells from damage by free radicals.
- Antiviral activity: Zinc has antiviral activity and can help reduce the risk of viral infections. It blocks the replication of viruses and prevents their spread in the body.
Zinc deficiency can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of infections. Symptoms of zinc deficiency include:
- Frequent infections
- Slow wound healing
- Loss of appetite
- Violation of taste and smell
- Hair loss
- Skin rashes
The recommended daily dose of zinc is 8-11 mg for adults. Zinc can be obtained from food (red meat, poultry, seafood, legumes, nuts, seeds) or dietary supplements. It is important not to exceed the recommended dose of zinc, since an excess of zinc can disrupt the absorption of other minerals, such as copper and iron.
F. Echinacea: Vegetable immunomodulator.
Echinacea is a genus of plants, which is traditionally used to strengthen the immune system and treat a cold and influenza. It contains various biologically active substances, such as polysaccharides, alkylamides and flavonoids that have immunomodulating properties.
Echinacea has the following effect on the immune system:
- Stimulation of immune cells: Echinacea stimulates immune cells, such as macrophages, NK cells and T-lymphocytes. It increases their activity and the ability to destroy pathogens.
- Increase in the production of cytokines: Echinacea increases the production of cytokines, signal molecules that regulate the immune response. Cytokines help coordinate the work of various cells of the immune system and enhance protection against infections.
- Antiviral activity: Echinacea has antiviral activity and can help reduce the risk of viral infections. It blocks the penetration of viruses into cells and prevents their spread in the body.
- Antibacterial activity: Echinacea has antibacterial activity and can help fight bacterial infections. It suppresses the growth of bacteria and contributes to their destruction.
- Anti -inflammatory action: Echinacea has an anti -inflammatory effect and can help reduce inflammatory processes in the body that can weaken the immune system.
Echinacea can be useful for:
- Prevention and treatment of colds and flu
- Strengthening the immune system
- Reducing the risk of developing respiratory tract infections
- Acceleration of wound healing
Echinacea is available in various forms, such as capsules, tablets, tinctures and teas. The recommended dose of echinacea depends on the form of production and a specific product. It is important to follow the instructions on the packaging and consult a doctor before taking Echinacea.
Echinacea is usually well tolerated, but in some cases side effects can occur, such as allergic reactions, digestive disorders and headache. Echinacea is not recommended for people with autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus.
G. Probiotics: Support for immunity through intestinal health.
Probiotics are living microorganisms that have a beneficial effect on intestinal health and immune system. They are found in some foods (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut) and in dietary supplements.
Probiotics have the following effect on the immune system:
- Improving intestinal microflora: Probiotics improve the intestinal microflora, increasing the amount of beneficial bacteria and suppressing the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Healthy intestinal microflora is important for the normal function of the immune system.
- Stimulation of immune cells: Probiotics stimulate immune cells, such as macrophages and T-lymphocytes that are in the intestines. They increase their activity and the ability to destroy pathogens.
- Increase in antibodies: Probiotics increase the production of antibodies (immunoglobulins) in the intestines. Antibodies are associated with pathogens and neutralize them or mark them to destroy other cells of the immune system.
- Strengthening the barrier function of the intestine: Probiotics strengthen the barrier function of the intestine, preventing the penetration of pathogens and harmful substances into the bloodstream.
- Regulation of inflammatory processes: Probiotics regulate inflammatory processes in the intestines. They can suppress an excessive inflammatory reaction, which can be harmful to the body.
Probiotics can be useful for:
- Improving digestion
- Strengthening the immune system
- Reducing the risk of developing infections of the gastrointestinal tract
- Treatment and prevention of diarrhea
- Reducing the risk of developing allergic diseases
The choice of probiotics depends on the specific needs and state of health. It is important to choose probiotics containing viable bacteria in sufficient quantities. It is recommended to take probiotics courses for several weeks or months.
Probiotics are usually well tolerated, but in some cases side effects can occur, such as bloating, gases and discomfort in the abdomen. These side effects usually pass on their own after a few days.
H. Other dietary supplements for immunity: an elderberry, garlic, ginseng and others.
In addition to vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, echinacea and probiotics, there are other dietary supplements that can be useful to strengthen immunity:
- Black Buzina (Sambucus Nigra): It has an antiviral effect and can help reduce the duration and severity of a cold and influenza. It contains anthocyans that have antioxidant properties and protect the cells from damage to free radicals.
- Garlic (Allium sativum): Contains allicin, which has antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal effects. Improves the function of immune cells and reduces the risk of infections.
- Ginseng (Panax Ginseng): Adaptogen, which helps the body adapt to stress and strengthens the immune system. Increases the activity of immune cells and reduces the risk of infections.
- Small Andrographis (Andrographis Paniculata): It has anti -inflammatory, antiviral and immunomodulating effects. It can be useful for the treatment of colds and influenza.
- Astragalus Mambranaceus: It stimulates the immune system and increases the body’s resistance to infections. It has antioxidant and anti -inflammatory properties.
- Kurkuma (Curcuma longa): Contains curcumin, which has anti -inflammatory, antioxidant and immunomodulating effects. It can help reduce inflammation in the body and strengthen the immune system.
- Ganoderma Lucidum): It has immunomodulating properties and can help strengthen the immune system. Contains polysaccharides that stimulate immune cells.
- Cat Claw (Uncaria Tomentosa): It has immunomodulating properties and can help strengthen the immune system. Contains alkaloids that stimulate immune cells.
The choice of dietary supplements for immunity depends on individual needs and health status. It is important to consult a doctor before taking dietary supplements, especially if you have any chronic diseases or take other medicines.
III. Correct selection and use of dietary supplements for immunity
A. Consultation with a doctor: necessity and importance.
Before taking any dietary supplements for immunity, you need to consult a doctor. Self -medication can be dangerous and lead to undesirable consequences.
Consultation with a doctor is important for the following reasons:
- Diagnosis: The doctor can diagnose and determine the cause of weakened immunity. It can prescribe the necessary tests and examinations to identify a deficiency of nutrients, infections or other diseases that can affect the immune system.
- Individual recommendations: The doctor can give individual recommendations for the choice of dietary supplements for immunity, taking into account your needs, health status and medications taken. He can recommend specific components, dosage and duration of dietary supplements.
- Prevention of side effects and interactions: The doctor can help prevent side effects and interaction of dietary supplements with other drugs. Some dietary supplements can interact with medicines and enhance or weaken their effect.
- Evaluation of effectiveness: The doctor can evaluate the effectiveness of dietary supplements for immunity and adjust the treatment if necessary. It can control your health status and prescribe additional tests to assess the dynamics of immune indicators.
- Exclusion of contraindications: The doctor may exclude contraindications for receiving dietary supplements for immunity. Some dietary supplements are not recommended for people with certain diseases or health conditions.
B. The choice of high -quality dietary supplements: what to look for.
When choosing dietary supplements for immunity, it is important to pay attention to the following factors:
- Reputation manufacturer: Choose dietary supplements from famous and reliable manufacturers who have a good reputation in the market. Study reviews about the manufacturer and its products.
- Composition: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement. Make sure that it contains the necessary components in sufficient quantities. Avoid dietary supplements containing artificial dyes, flavors and preservatives.
- Certification: Make sure that the dietary supplement is certified and complies with quality standards. Check the availability of certificates of conformity and other permits.
- Output form: Choose the form of a dietary supplement, which is most convenient for you (capsules, tablets, powders, tinctures).
- Dosage: Follow the recommended dosage of dietary supplements. Do not exceed the dose without consulting a doctor.
- Best before date: Check the shelf life of the dietary supplement before buying. Do not use dietary supplements with an expired shelf life.
- Price: The price of dietary supplements is not always an indicator of its quality. Compare the prices of similar products from different manufacturers and select the best option.
- Reviews: Study reviews about dietary supplements from other consumers. Pay attention to reviews about the effectiveness, side effects and tolerance of dietary supplements.
C. Dosage and duration of admission: compliance with recommendations.
The dosage and duration of the intake of dietary supplements for immunity depend on a specific product and individual needs. It is important to comply with the recommendations specified on the package of Bad or the District by the doctor.
Do not exceed the recommended dosage of Bad without consulting a doctor. An overdose of dietary supplements can lead to side effects and undesirable consequences.
The duration of the intake of dietary supplements also depends on the specific product and health status. Some dietary supplements can be taken for a long time, while others are recommended to take courses.
If you are not sure of the dosage and duration of dietary supplements, consult your doctor.
D. Possible side effects and interactions: caution and attentiveness.
Some dietary supplements for immunity can cause side effects and interact with other drugs. It is important to show caution and attentiveness when taking dietary supplements and inform the doctor about all the medicines and dietary supplements you take.
Possible side effects of dietary supplements for immunity:
- Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
- Digestive disorders (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation)
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Increased fatigue
- Changes in blood pressure
If you notice any side effects after taking Bad, stop taking and consult a doctor.
Interactions of dietary supplements with medicines:
- Some dietary supplements can enhance or weaken the effect of drugs.
- Some dietary supplements can increase the risk of side effects of drugs.
- Some dietary supplements can affect the assimilation of drugs.
If you take any medicine, consult a doctor before taking dietary supplements in order to avoid undesirable interactions.
E. A combination of dietary supplements with a healthy lifestyle: an integrated approach.
Bad for immunity can be useful to strengthen the immune system, but they are not a panacea. To achieve the best results, it is necessary to combine the reception of dietary supplements with a healthy lifestyle.
A healthy lifestyle includes:
- Balanced nutrition: consume a variety of foods rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, low -fat protein and healthy fats.
- Regular physical exercises: engage in moderate physical activity at least