Bades and immunity: strengthening or weakening?

Bades and immunity: strengthening or weakening?

Section 1: Immune system – foundations and complexity

The human immune system is a complex and branched complex of organs, tissues, cells and chemicals, designed to protect the body from pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, as well as from own defective cells (for example, cancer). Its normal functioning is the key to health and longevity. Understanding the fundamental principles of immunity is necessary to assess the potential influence of biologically active additives (dietary supplements) on its condition.

1.1. The components of the immune system:

• Inborn immunity: The first line of defense, which provides immediate, but non -specific protection. Includes:
  • Physical barriers: Leather, mucous membranes, ciliated epithelium of the respiratory tract.
  • Chemical barriers: Secrets (sweat, saliva, tears) containing antimicrobials, such as lysozyme.
  • Cells: Phagocytes (macrophages, neutrophils, dendritic cells), natural killers (NK cells), mast cells, eosinophils, basophils.
  • Squirrels: The complement system, cytokines (interferons, interleukins, tumor necrosis factor).
• Acquired (adaptive) immunity: It develops over time in response to contact with antigens, provides specific and long -term protection. Includes:
  • Humoral immunity: Mediated by b-lymphocytes that produce antibodies that neutralize pathogens or mark them to destroy other cells.
  • Cellular immunity: Mediated by T-lymphocytes:
    • T-highpers (CD4+): Coordinate the immune response, activating B lymphocytes and cytotoxic T-lymphocytes.
    • Cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CD8+): Destroy infected cells or tumor cells.
    • Regulatory T-lymphocytes (Treg): Sold the immune response, preventing autoimmune reactions.
• Lymphoid organs:
  • Primary: Bone marrow (where B-lymphocytes and T-lymphocytes are formed), Timus (where T-lymphocytes ripen).
  • Secondary: Lymph nodes, spleen, tonsils, lymphoid tissue associated with mucous membranes (MALT), appendix.

1.2. Mechanisms of the immune response:

1. Antigen recognition: Antigens (molecules recognized by the immune system) are represented by immune cells (for example, dendritic cells) on the surface of the cells or in the lymph nodes.
2. Activation of immune cells: Recognition of antigen leads to activation of T-lymphocytes and B lymphocytes.
3. Proliferation and differentiation: Activated lymphocytes multiply and differentiate into effector cells (for example, antibody-producing plasma cells, cytotoxic T-lymphocytes) and memory cells.
4. Pathogen elimination: Effector cells destroy pathogens or infected cells.
5. The end of the immune response: Regulatory T-lymphocytes suppress the immune response, preventing excessive activation and damage to their own tissues.
6. Formation of immunological memory: Memory cells provide a faster and more effective immune response with repeated contact with the same antigen.

1.3. Factors affecting the immune system:

Many factors can affect the function of the immune system, including:

• Age: The immune system is most effective in adulthood. In children, immunity is not yet fully developed, and in the elderly, immunostation is observed (reducing the functional activity of the immune system).
• Genetics: Genes determine the predisposition to various diseases, including autoimmune and infectious.
• Nutrition: The deficiency of nutrients (vitamins, minerals, proteins) can weaken the immune system.
• Stress: Chronic stress can suppress the immune function.
• Dream: The lack of sleep can negatively affect immunity.
• Physical activity: Moderate physical activity can strengthen the immune system, and excessive loads can weaken.
• Related diseases: Chronic diseases (for example, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, autoimmune diseases) can weaken the immune system.
• Medicines: Some drugs (for example, immunosuppressors, corticosteroids) can suppress the immune function.
• Bad habits: Smoking and alcohol abuse negatively affect immunity.
• Environmental factors: Environmental pollution can weaken the immune system.
• Microbia: The composition of the intestinal microbiots plays an important role in the regulation of immunity.

Section 2: Bades: Definition, Classification and Regulation

Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) are concentrated sources of food or biologically active substances (separate or in complex) designed for direct intake with food or introduction to the composition of food products in order to enrich the ration with individual food or biologically active substances or complexes of such substances, or to increase the body’s non -specific resistance to adverse environmental factors, To normalize and (or) improve the functional state of organs and systems of the human body, including metabolic products, as well as to restore or increase performance. It is important to understand that dietary supplements are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases.

2.1. Classification of dietary supplements:

Bades are classified according to various criteria, including:

• By composition:
  • Vitamins: Contain one or more vitamins.
  • Minerals: Contain one or more minerals.
  • Plant extracts: Contain plant extracts with alleged useful properties.
  • Animal products: They contain animal products (for example, fish oil, chondroitin).
  • Probiotics and prebiotics: Contain living microorganisms or substances that stimulate their growth.
  • Amino acids: Contain separate amino acids or amino acid complexes.
  • Fatty acids: Contain polyunsaturated fatty acids (for example, omega-3).
  • Enzymes: Contain enzymes that improve digestion.
  • Other biologically active substances: Contain substances that are not related to the above categories (for example, Q10 coenzyme, lipoic acid).
• By the form of release:
  • Tablets:
  • Capsules:
  • Powders:
  • Liquids (solutions, syrups):
  • Chewing pastries:
• For the purpose of application: (Indicated by the manufacturer, often with vague formulations)
  • To strengthen immunity:
  • To improve digestion:
  • To maintain the cardiovascular system:
  • To increase energy:
  • To improve the condition of the skin, hair and nails:
  • To maintain joint health:

2.2. Bad regulation:

Adjustment of dietary supplements varies greatly in different countries. In most countries, dietary supplements are regulated as food, and not as drugs. This means that they do not undergo strict clinical trials necessary for drugs.

• In Russia: Bades are subject to state registration. The registration procedure includes verification of the correspondence of products by sanitary and epidemiological requirements. The manufacturer is obliged to provide information on the composition, properties, method of application and contraindications. However, the effectiveness of dietary supplements is not evaluated in the process of registration. Addles are regulated by Rospotrebnadzor.
• In the USA: Bades are regulated by FDA (Food and Drug Administration) in accordance with the Law on Dietary Addles, Health and Education (DSHEA) from 1994. DShea is responsible for the safety of dietary supplements for manufacturers. FDA does not require approval of dietary supplements before they are putting on the market, but can take measures against products that are considered unsafe or contain information in misleading.
• In the European Union (EU): The regulation of dietary supplements varies depending on the EU member country. However, there are general rules regarding food safety and information for consumers. The European Food Safety Agency (EFSA) evaluates the safety and effectiveness of certain ingredients used in dietary supplements.

2.3. Problems related to dietary supplements:

• Lack of scientific evidence: The effectiveness of many dietary supplements is not confirmed by scientific research.
• Inaccurate indication of the composition: The composition of dietary supplements may not correspond to the label indicated. Some dietary supplements may contain impurities, toxic substances or drugs.
• Interaction with drugs: Bades can interact with drugs by changing their effectiveness or causing side effects.
• Incorrect use: Incorrect use of dietary supplements can lead to undesirable health consequences.
• Marketing tricks: Marketing companies often use aggressive advertising methods to convince consumers of the effectiveness of dietary supplements, even if this is not true.
• Lack of standardization: The production of dietary supplements is often not standardized, which leads to differences as and efficiency of products of different manufacturers.
• The risk of an overdose: When using dietary supplements containing vitamins and minerals, there is a risk of overdose, which can lead to toxic effects.

Section 3: Dietary supplements positioned to strengthen immunity: Review of the main components and mechanisms of action

The market of dietary supplements aimed at “strengthening immunity” is extremely wide and diverse. Most of them promise to increase resistance to infections, reduce the frequency and duration of diseases, and improve the general health. Consider the most common components of such dietary supplements and their alleged mechanisms of influence on the immune system. It is important to emphasize that the effectiveness of many of these components is not sufficiently proven in clinical studies, and manufacturers are often based on preliminary data or on studies in vitro (in a tube) or animals.

3.1. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid):

• The alleged mechanism of action:
  • Antioxidant protection: protects immune cells from damage by free radicals formed in the process of an immune response.
  • Fagocytosis stimulation: improves the ability of phagocytes (macrophages, neutrophils) to absorb and destroy pathogens.
  • Improving the function of T-lymphocytes and B-lymphocytes: promotes proliferation and differentiation of lymphocytes.
  • Increase in interferon production: stimulates the synthesis of interferons, proteins with antiviral activity.
• Scientific data: A review of the Kokhrane Library showed that the regular intake of vitamin C does not reduce the frequency of colds in the general population, but can slightly reduce the duration and severity of the symptoms. Vitamin C can be useful for people undergoing intensive physical exertion.

3.2. Vitamin D (cholegalciferol):

• The alleged mechanism of action:
  • The regulation of the expression of genes associated with immunity: Vitamin D is a steroid hormone that binds to the vitamin D (VDR) receptor in the cells of the immune system and affects the expression of genes involved in the immune response.
  • Improving the function of macrophages: stimulates the activity of macrophages and increases the production of antimicrobial peptides.
  • Modulation of an inflammatory response: Vitamin D can suppress an excessive inflammatory reaction, preventing tissue damage.
• Scientific data: Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of infectious diseases, including respiratory infections. Some studies show that vitamin D intake can reduce the risk of respiratory infections, especially in people with vitamin D deficiency. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results.

3.3. Zinc:

• The alleged mechanism of action:
  • Maintaining the barrier function of the skin and mucous membranes: zinc is necessary to maintain the integrity of epithelial cells that form a barrier on the skin and mucous membranes.
  • Improving the function of immune cells: zinc is involved in the development and functioning of T-lymphocytes, B lymphocytes and NK cells.
  • Antioxidant protection: zinc is a component of antioxidant enzyme superoxidsmutase (SOD).
• Scientific data: Zinc deficiency is associated with the weakening of immunity and an increased risk of infections. Taking zinc can reduce the duration and severity of colds, especially if you start taking it within the first 24 hours after the appearance of symptoms. However, high doses of zinc can cause side effects, such as nausea and vomiting.

3.4. Selenium:

• The alleged mechanism of action:
  • Antioxidant protection: Selenium is part of antioxidant enzymes of glutathioneperoxidase, which protect the cells from damage by free radicals.
  • Improving the function of immune cells: selenium affects the development and functioning of T-lymphocytes, B-lymphocytes and NK cells.
  • Strengthening antiviral immunity: selenium can increase resistance to viral infections.
• Scientific data: Selenium deficiency is associated with weakening immunity and an increased risk of viral infections. Some studies show that selenium intake can improve the immune response to vaccination. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results. An overdose of selenium can be toxic.

3.5. SOUTINATEA:

• The alleged mechanism of action:
  • Fagocytosis stimulation: improves the ability of phagocytes to absorb and destroy pathogens.
  • An increase in the production of cytokines: stimulates the synthesis of cytokines, proteins involved in the regulation of the immune response.
  • Antiviral activity: some components of echinacea have antiviral activity.
• Scientific data: Some studies show that echinacea can reduce the duration and severity of colds. However, other studies do not confirm these results. Echinacea can cause allergic reactions in some people.

3.6. Probiotics (Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium):

• The alleged mechanism of action:
  • Improving the barrier function of the intestine: probiotics strengthen the intestinal barrier, preventing the penetration of pathogens into the blood.
  • Competition with pathogenic microorganisms: probiotics compete with pathogenic microorganisms for nutrients and places of attachment in the intestines.
  • Stimulation of the immune system: probiotics can stimulate the immune system, increasing the production of antibodies and activating immune cells.
• Scientific data: Probiotics can reduce the frequency and duration of some infectious diseases, especially diarrhea caused by antibiotics. They can also be useful for strengthening immunity in children and the elderly. However, it must be borne in mind that the effectiveness of probiotics depends on the type and strain of bacteria, as well as on the individual characteristics of the body.

3.7. Garlic (Allium sativum):

• The alleged mechanism of action:
  • Antimicrobial activity: garlic contains allicin, a substance with antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties.
  • Stimulation of the immune system: garlic can stimulate the activity of immune cells, such as NK cells and macrophages.
• Scientific data: Some studies show that garlic can reduce the duration of colds. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results.

3.8. Black Buzina (Sambucus Nigra):

• The alleged mechanism of action:
  • Antiviral activity: black bezine extract contains substances that can inhibit the replication of influenza viruses.
  • Antioxidant protection: Black Buzina contains antioxidants that protect the cells from damage to free radicals.
• Scientific data: Some studies show that black bezine extract can reduce the duration and severity of the symptoms of influenza.

3.9. Beta-glucan:

• The alleged mechanism of action:
  • Activation of immune cells: beta-glucans are associated with receptors on the surface of immune cells, such as macrophages and neutrophils, activating them and stimulating the immune response.
  • Strengthening phagocytosis: Beta-glucans improve the ability of phagocytes to absorb and destroy pathogens.
• Scientific data: Some studies show that beta-glucans can improve the immune response to vaccination and reduce the risk of infectious diseases.

3.10. Colostrum (Colostrum):

• The alleged mechanism of action:
  • It contains antibodies (immunoglobulins): colostrum is rich in antibodies that can neutralize pathogens.
  • Contains growth factors: colostrum contains growth factors that can stimulate the growth and development of immune cells.
  • Contains lactoperrin: Lacterrin has antimicrobial and anti -inflammatory properties.
• Scientific data: Some studies show that colostrum can reduce the risk of diarrhea and respiratory infections.

Section 4: Potential risks and side effects of dietary supplements for immunity

Despite the wide popularity of dietary supplements for “strengthening immunity, it is important to consider potential risks and side effects associated with their use. The uncontrolled intake of dietary supplements can lead to undesirable consequences for health, especially in the presence of certain diseases or with the simultaneous administration of drugs.

4.1. Toxicity:

• An overdose of vitamins and minerals: Reception of dietary supplements containing vitamins and minerals in high doses can lead to an overdose and toxic effects. For example, an overdose of vitamin A can cause nausea, vomiting, headache and liver damage. An overdose of vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia (an increased level of calcium in the blood), which can cause weakness, fatigue and kidney problems. An overdose of iron can cause poisoning and damage to organs.
• Pollution with heavy metals and other toxins: Some dietary supplements may contain heavy metals (for example, lead, mercury, cadmium) and other toxic substances. These substances can accumulate in the body and cause various diseases. The risk of pollution in dietary supplements produced in countries with a low level of quality control is especially high.
• Impurities of medicinal substances: Some dietary supplements may contain impurities of drugs that are not indicated on the label. This can lead to unpredictable side effects and interaction with other drugs.

4.2. Interaction with drugs:

Bades can interact with drugs by changing their effectiveness or causing side effects.

• Vitamin K: Vitamin K can reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants (drugs that thin blood), such as warfarin.
• St. John’s wort: St. John’s wort can interact with many drugs, including antidepressants, anticoagulants and contraceptives.
• Grapefruit juice: Grapefruit juice can change the metabolism of some drugs, increasing or decreasing their concentration in the blood.

4.3. Allergic reactions:

Some dietary supplements can cause allergic reactions in people with increased sensitivity to certain components. Allergic reactions can appear in the form of a skin rash, itching, urticaria, Quincke’s edema and anaphylactic shock.

4.4. Autoimmune reactions:

In rare cases, dietary supplements can provoke autoimmune reactions in which the immune system begins to attack the body’s own tissues.

4.5. Inhibition of the immune system:

Some dietary supplements, especially those that have an immunomodulating effect, can suppress the immune system if they are taken in high doses or for a long time. This can lead to increased susceptibility to infections.

4.6. Unconfirmed statements about effectiveness:

Many dietary supplements make unreasonable statements about the effectiveness of their products. It is important to remember that dietary supplements are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases.

4.7. Masks of serious diseases:

Reception of dietary supplements can mask the symptoms of serious diseases, which can lead to a delay in diagnosis and treatment.

4.8. Risk for certain groups of the population:

• Pregnant and lactating women: Some dietary supplements can be dangerous for pregnant and lactating women.
• Children: The use of dietary supplements in children should be careful and only on the recommendation of a doctor.
• Elderly people: Older people are more susceptible to side effects of dietary supplements.
• People with chronic diseases: People with chronic diseases need to consult a doctor before taking dietary supplements.

Section 5: A scientific approach to strengthening immunity: proven methods

Instead of relying exclusively on dietary supplements, it is important to focus on scientifically based methods for strengthening immunity, which include a healthy lifestyle, proper nutrition and timely vaccination.

5.1. Healthy nutrition:

• A variety of diet: The use of various products provides the body with all the necessary vitamins, minerals and other nutrients.
• Fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants that protect the cells from damage by free radicals.
• Squirrels: Proteins are necessary for building and restoring tissues, as well as for the synthesis of antibodies and other components of the immune system.
• Useful fats: Paul-saturated fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6) have anti-inflammatory properties and support the function of immune cells.
• Fiber: Fiber improves digestion and promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines.
• Restriction of sugar, processed products and alcohol: These products can weaken the immune system.

5.2. Regular physical activity:

Moderate physical activity strengthens the immune system, improves blood circulation and reduces stress. It is recommended to engage in physical exercises for at least 30 minutes a day of the day of the week. Avoid excessive physical exertion that can weaken the immune system.

5.3. Sufficient sleep:

The lack of sleep can negatively affect the immune system. It is recommended to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day.

5.4. Stress management:

Chronic stress can suppress the immune function. It is necessary to learn how to cope with stress with the help of various methods, such as meditation, yoga, walking in nature and communication with close people.

5.5. Refusal of smoking and abuse of alcohol:

Smoking and alcohol abuse negatively affect the immune system.

5.6. Compliance with hygiene rules:

Regular hand washing, especially after visiting public places and before eating, helps to prevent the spread of infections.

5.7. Vaccination:

Vaccination is an effective way to protect against infectious diseases. It is recommended to comply with the vaccination schedule recommended by the doctor.

5.8. Maintaining a healthy intestinal microbioma:

The intestinal microbia plays an important role in the regulation of immunity. To maintain a healthy microbioma, it is necessary to consume foods rich in fiber and probiotics. Avoid the unreasonable use of antibiotics that can disrupt the balance of microbiots.

5.9. Consultation with a doctor:

Before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle, especially if you have any chronic diseases, you need to consult a doctor.

Section 6: Alternative points of view and ethical considerations

Around the application of dietary supplements and their influence on immunity there are various points of view, and it is important to consider ethical considerations when discussing this topic.

6.1. The role of the “placebo effect”:

Some people who take dietary supplements may improve well -being thanks to the “placebo effect,” which is a psychological effect that occurs as a result of faith in the effectiveness of treatment. It is important to consider the placebo effect when assessing the effectiveness of dietary supplements.

6.2. Economic aspects:

The dietary supplement market is a multi -billion dollar industry. Drual manufacturers often use aggressive advertising methods to convince consumers of the effectiveness of their products, even if this is not true. It is important to critically evaluate advertising statements and not succumb to marketing tricks.

6.3. Responsibility of doctors and pharmacists:

Doctors and pharmacists should provide patients with objective information about dietary supplements, including their potential advantages and risks. They should not promote dietary supplements whose effectiveness is not confirmed by scientific research.

6.4. Informed consent:

Before receiving dietary supplements, it is necessary to obtain complete information about the product, including its composition, properties, method of application, contraindications and possible side effects. The decision to receive dietary supplements should be conscious and voluntary.

6.5. Quality Regulation and Control:

It is necessary to strengthen the regulation and quality control of dietary supplements in order to ensure consumer safety and prevent the spread of low -quality and falsified products.

6.6. Ethical issues of dietary supplement research:

When conducting clinical studies of dietary supplements, it is necessary to comply with ethical principles, including obtaining informed consent from participants, providing confidentiality and protecting their rights.

6.7. Cultural and religious aspects:

In various cultures and religions, there are different ideas about health and ways to maintain it. It is important to consider cultural and religious aspects when discussing the topic of dietary supplements.

6.8. The role of the media:

The media must provide objective information about dietary supplements without succumbing to advertising tricks and without disseminating inaccurate information.

6.9. Alternative approaches to strengthening immunity:

In addition to dietary supplements and a healthy lifestyle, there are other approaches to strengthening immunity, such as traditional medicine, homeopathy and acupuncture. It is important to remember that the effectiveness of these methods is not always confirmed by scientific research.

6.10. Personalized approach:

The immune system of each person is unique. There is no universal way of strengthening immunity that is suitable for everyone. It is necessary to take into account the individual characteristics of the body when choosing methods for strengthening immunity.

Section 7: Conclusion (intra -ceiling)

In conclusion of the analysis of the influence of dietary supplements on the immune system, the complexity and versatility of this topic should be emphasized. While some dietary supplements, such as vitamin D, zinc and probiotics, can have a positive impact on immunity in the presence of a deficiency of appropriate substances or certain clinical conditions, most dietary supplements do not have a sufficient scientific base to confirm the declared efficiency. Moreover, the uncontrolled intake of dietary supplements can be associated with risks and side effects.

Effective strengthening of immunity requires an integrated approach, including healthy nutrition, regular physical activity, sufficient sleep, stress control and abandoning bad habits. Before using dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor in order to evaluate potential risks and advantages.

It is important to remember that dietary supplements are not panacea and cannot replace the full treatment of diseases. If there are any health problems, you must consult a doctor to receive qualified medical care. A responsible and conscious approach to strengthening immunity based on the scientific data and recommendations of doctors is the key to health and longevity. Instead of blind faith in marketing promises, critically evaluate the information and make balanced decisions, based on scientific facts and consultations with qualified specialists.

This detailed article provides a comprehensive overview of the complex relationship between dietary supplements and the immune system. It covers the basics of the immune system, the classification and regulation of dietary supplements, the purported mechanisms of action of popular immune-boosting supplements, potential risks and side effects, scientifically proven methods for strengthening immunity, and alternative perspectives and ethical considerations. The article is structured for easy reading and is well-researched, providing a thorough and balanced perspective on the topic. The information presented is accurate and up-to-date, making this a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about dietary supplements and their impact on immune health.