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There are many supplements that can help keep the immune system healthy. Zinc, vitamins C and D are just a few that have been studied for their ability to boost immunity. Here are 15 supplements known for their potential to boost the immune system. However, these substances should not and cannot be a substitute for a healthy lifestyle.
1. Why strengthen the immune system?
Your immune system is composed of a complex set of cells, processes, and chemicals that continuously defend your body against invading pathogens, including viruses, toxins, and bacteria.
Keeping your immune system healthy year-round is key to preventing infection and disease. Making healthy lifestyle choices by consuming nutritious foods, getting enough sleep, and exercising are the most important ways to strengthen your immune system. In addition, research has shown that supplementing with certain vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other substances can improve the immune response and potentially protect the body against disease.
However, be aware that some supplements may interact with prescription or over-the-counter medications you're taking. Some may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions, so you should consult your doctor before starting any supplement.
2. 15 immune-boosting supplements during the pandemic
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble nutrient that is essential for the health and functioning of your immune system. Vitamin D enhances the germ-fighting effects of monocytes and the macrophage function of white blood cells, which are important parts of the immune defense system. In addition, Vitamin D helps reduce inflammation, boosting the immune response.
Vitamin D là một trong những vi chất cần thiết cho hệ thống miễn dịch
People are deficient in this important vitamin, which can negatively affect immune function. In fact, low vitamin D levels are associated with an increased risk of upper respiratory tract infections, including the flu and allergic asthma.
Some studies show that vitamin D supplements can improve the body's immune response. In fact, recent studies show that taking vitamin D may protect against respiratory infections.
In a 2019 review of randomized controlled studies in 11,321 people, vitamin D supplementation significantly reduced the risk of respiratory infections in vitamin D-deficient individuals and reduced the risk in those with vitamin D deficiency. get enough vitamin D.
Other studies show that vitamin D supplements can improve response to antiretroviral therapy in people with certain types of infections such as hepatitis C and HIV.
Depending on blood levels, doses for vitamin D supplements ranging from 1,000 to 4,000 IU per day are sufficient for most people, although those with more severe deficiencies often need higher doses of the supplement. .
Zinc
Zinc is needed for the development and communication between immune cells and plays an important role in the inflammatory response. A deficiency in this nutrient can significantly affect your immune system, leading to an increased risk of infections and illnesses, like pneumonia.
Zinc deficiency affects about 2 billion people worldwide and is very common in older adults. In fact, up to 30% of elderly people lack this nutrient.
Many studies reveal that zinc supplements can protect against respiratory infections like the common cold. Furthermore, zinc supplements may be beneficial for people who already have the disease.
In a 2019 study in 64 hospitalized children with acute lower respiratory tract infections, oral administration of 30 mg of zinc per day reduced the total duration of infection compared with the placebo group and the median hospital stay by only 2 day.
Long-term zinc intake is generally safe for healthy adults, as long as the daily dose does not exceed 40 mg of zinc. Overdose can interfere with copper absorption, leading to an increased risk of infection.
Kẽm được tìm thấy trong nhiều loại thực phẩm và dạng viên thực phẩm chức năng
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is perhaps the most popular supplement used to protect against infection, with an important role to play in immune health.
This vitamin supports the function of many types of immune cells and enhances resistance to infection. Vitamin C also functions as a powerful antioxidant, fighting damage caused by oxidative stress.
The upper limit of vitamin C is 2,000 mg. A daily supplement dose is usually between 250 and 1,000 mg
Elderberry
Elderberry has long been used to treat infections and is now being studied for its effects on immune health.
In vitro studies, elderberry extract showed potent antibacterial and antiviral potential, against bacterial pathogens that cause upper respiratory tract infections and influenza virus strains. What's more, elderberries have been shown to boost the immune system's response and may help shorten the duration and severity of colds, as well as reduce symptoms associated with viral infections.
Elderberry supplements are usually sold in liquid or capsule form.
Medicinal mushrooms
Medicinal mushrooms have been used since ancient times to prevent and treat infections and diseases. There are now more than 270 types of medicinal mushrooms recognized with immune-boosting properties such as cordyceps, lion's mane, maitake, shiitake, reishi, and ganoderma, all of which It has been shown to be beneficial for immune health.
Astragalus
Astragalus is an herb commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. Animal studies show that its extract can significantly improve immune-related responses.
Selenium
Selenium is a mineral that is essential for immune health. Animal studies demonstrate that selenium supplements can enhance antiviral defenses against strains of influenza, such as influenza.
Garlic
Garlic has strong anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. And garlic has been shown to promote immune health by stimulating white blood cells with possible protective functions such as NK cells and macrophages. However, research done on humans is still limited.
Tỏi có đặc tính chống viêm và kháng virus mạnh
Andrographis
This herb contains andrographolide, which is a terpenoid compound with antiviral effects and against viruses that cause respiratory illnesses, including enterovirus D68 and influenza A.
Licorice
Licorice contains many substances including glycyrrhizin, which may help protect against viral infections. According to test-tube studies, glycyrrhizin is active against severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus (SARSr-CoV).
Pelargonium sidoides
Several studies conducted in humans support the use of neem extract for the relief of symptoms of acute viral respiratory infections, including the common cold and bronchitis. However, more research is still needed before a final recommendation can be made.
B complex vitamins
B vitamins like B12 and B6, play a very important role in a healthy immune response. However, many adults are deficient in these vitamins, which can negatively affect immune health.
Curcumin
Curcumin is the main active compound in turmeric. It has strong anti-inflammatory properties, and animal studies indicate that curcumin may help improve immune function.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a genus of plants in the daisy family. Several species have been shown to improve immune health and may be effective against certain respiratory viruses, including respiratory syncytial virus and rhinoviruses.
Cây cúc dại giúp cải thiện khả năng miễn dịch của cơ thể
Propolis
Propolis is a plastic-like material produced by honey bees for use as a sealant in honeycombs. Although it has impressive immune-boosting effects and may also have antiviral properties, more research is needed on its effects in humans.
In order to monitor and protect comprehensive health, you should have regular health check-ups to detect health problems early, so that early and timely interventions can be made.
Currently, Vinmec International General Hospital has general health checkup packages suitable for each age, gender and individual needs of customers with a reasonable price policy, including:
Health checkup package Diamond Health Checkup Package Vip General Health Checkup Package Special General Health Checkup Package Comprehensive General Health Checkup Package Standard General Health Checkup Package Patient's examination results will be returned to your home. After receiving the results of the general health examination, if you detect diseases that require intensive examination and treatment, you can use services from other specialties at the Hospital with quality treatment and services. outstanding customer service.
To register for examination and treatment at Vinmec International General Hospital, you can contact the nationwide Vinmec Health System Hotline, or register online HERE.
References:
References: healthline.com
