Your immune system is a complex matrix of cells and systems that work together to protect you from diseases. It is the body’s natural defense system against pathogens (bacteria, viruses, and disease-causing microorganisms), in addition to promoting effective cell repair.
The main players in the immune system are white blood cells, which fight infections and lymphocytes, which circulate through the body through blood and lymph vessels. And are stored in the lymphoid organs – which include adenoids (at the back of the nasal passage), vessels blood, bone marrow, lymph nodes, spleen, small intestine, thymus, and tonsils.
The immune system is divided into two – natural and acquired immunity.We have a natural immune system from birth, and it instantly responds to pathogens. The main answer is an inflammatory reaction, expressed by increased body temperature to kill viruses. Mucous membranes with the help of excess secretions try to get rid of germs. The weakness characteristic of the period of the disease allows you not to waste valuable energy on something other than recovery.
The immune system is a complex but natural response to pathogens in our body. The resulting immune response to microbes is not general, but specific. Immune memory stores information about early diseases and is detected by its custodians – T-lymphocytes and antibodies recognize pathogens and begin to fight for our health.
The disadvantage of this process is that for the first time, natural immunity fights the disease. In the future, acquired immunity develops to counter a specific disease. Prior to this, any help to our body will be very useful!
What is a supplement?
Although the price of supplements is now fairly expensive, it turns out that few people are willing to spend enough to buy it so as not to get infected with the Coronavirus. Supplements are usually sold in the form of tablets, capsules, powder, or liquid.
This product is believed to increase immunity because it contains vitamins and minerals that can strengthen the immune system. A strong immune system is expected to be able to fight germs, both bacteria, and viruses, especially when the world is currently being hit by a Coronavirus outbreak that causes COVID-19 disease.
Supplements are the Source of nutrients
Dietary supplements are a concentrated source of nutrients or other substances with nutritional or physiological functions, alone or in combination. Their purpose is to support the intake of nutrients and supplement the diet with substances that are not obtained in normal quantities by the normal intake of food in the body, all for the purpose of a beneficial effect on health. In this way, the general resistance of the organism to stressful external influences increases, it helps to maintain the body’s physiological functions.
Nutrients and other substances that makeup food supplements are vitamins and minerals, proteins, amino acids, fatty acids, cellulose, brewer’s yeast, inulin, lecithin, glucomannan, herbs. And medicinal herbs and their extracts concentrate or raw materials of plant origin, plant protection products (bioflavonoids, carotenoids, isoflavones, glucosinolates), natural enzymes. And coenzymes, live cultures of microorganisms, organic tissues, glandular metabolites, and other substances. Dietary supplements are also bee products and their mixtures.
For the production of herbal preparations, fresh or dried whole plants and their parts (eg leaf, root, fruit, flower, etc.). Pure substances of plant origin individually or in a mixture, plant secondary products can be used as food supplements. Food supplements are placed on the market in various dosage forms (tablets, capsules, powder, liquid, bar bars, tea, drops, syrup, etc.), and must be marked dietary supplement on the label.
Supplements for immunity
We need a certain amount of vitamins and minerals to function. With a shortage or acute deficiency of one trace element, the digestibility of other enzymes is impaired, as a result of which the health condition worsens. So, with a deficiency of vitamin C, for example, scurvy can develop, and due to a deficiency of vitamin K, without which the blood cells do not cling, that is, its coagulation is impaired. However, there is a risk of excessive consumption, for example, with an excess of vitamin A, muscle and bone pain, skin problems, and visual impairment may appear.
Science is tireless, and limit values are often overestimated as a result of new research. For example, previously established vitamin D norms are too low for our climate. Therefore, it is recommended that you take the supplements to maintain your immune system. Despite the fact that all vitamins and minerals are necessary, various studies have shown that these substances are most effective since it is in them that we often lack.
When is it necessary to take nutritional supplements?
It would be perfect for your body if you had enough sleep, drank enough water, ate enough fruits and vegetables, and avoided stressful situations. Oxidative stress is the basis of many chronic conditions and it is possible that a good combination of vitamins and minerals can help reduce the adverse effects of the environment. When should you supplement the nutrients in your body?
Lack of vitamins and minerals in the diet. If you do not have proper eating habits or your blood test reveals that you are missing an important vitamin or mineral, you need to supplement these nutrients as a nutritional supplement. Unhealthy foods and stress contribute to indigestion, so it is difficult for your body to extract all the necessary nutrients from food.
- Dietary restrictions. If you are on a diet, are a vegetarian, vegan, or have dietary restrictions due to health reasons, you may not be able to get all the vitamins and minerals you need into your body.
- Aging. With age, you may have problems absorbing nutrients because your body does not have the same ability to break down and absorb nutrients as before. Older people also have to take more drugs, and these can interfere with the digestion of essential nutrients. Supplements can help restore this imbalance.
- Pregnancy. Some nutrients help prevent birth defects and support the baby’s health. Talk to your gynecologist about what nutritional supplements are appropriate during pregnancy and that help support your baby’s development.
- Sportsmen. If you exercise regularly or do sports, this increases the need to supplement nutrients. Athletes need a lot of energy and nutrients to stay in shape. After intensive training, it is necessary to supplement these important nutrients, increase energy levels, and support regeneration. Therefore, an athlete’s diet includes a number of carbohydrates and proteins.
The benefits of vitamin supplements regarding COVID 19
Until now there have been no research results that ensure that vitamin supplements can make a person 100 percent avoidable from COVID-19. According to some nutrition experts, taking vitamins or supplements in small amounts or sufficiently have good effects on the body.
But if you consume too much, the effect can actually be dangerous. It was explained that the consumption of vitamin supplements can indeed increase the body’s immunity for several diseases, such as influenza. Consumption of vitamins can make the healing process faster. In other words, vitamin supplements are needed if someone clearly has a deficit of certain types of vitamins.
The Importance of Vitamins and Supplements during the Pandemic COVID-19
There are recommendations for taking supplements or vitamins to increase endurance because COVID-19 is vulnerable to attack people with low immunity. Meanwhile, the products most sought after by are vitamins, supplements consisting of vitamin C, multivitamins that contain iron, and turmeric.
Basically, the immune system can be enhanced by supporting nutrients. For people who cannot meet their daily nutritional needs, can take supplements and vitamins to get additional nutritional intake. Some of the intakes that are believed to be able to increase immunity are vitamin C, iron, and turmeric. These three ingredients are effective in maintaining the immune system.
- Vitamin C undoubtedly has an important role in boosting immunity because of its antioxidant content. Vitamin C can also prevent damage and repair cells damaged by viruses and bacteria. Multivitamins contain 13 important nutrients needed by the body.
- Iron which can stimulate certain immune cells and can reduce oxidative stress. Not only that, but iron can also reduce the risk of infection as well as significantly increase the immune response in older people. This is certainly very supportive to fight various types of viruses that cause disease, including the coronavirus.
- While turmeric has many ingredients that are good for the body. Turmeric is known to help remove toxins from the body. The content of curcumin also acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.
Consumption of vitamins regularly can help improve body immunity. This prevention can be done against viral or bacterial infections, safe for consumption every day. Make sure the supplements you consume are officially registered and follow the rules of use. If you have a medical condition or are undergoing certain medications, consult your doctor first. Then, make sure the supplement content is suitable for your needs because everyone has different nutritional needs.
Can Corona Virus Be Prevented by Supplements?
Although many people with COVID-19 have been declared cured, not a few patients have died from this disease. Naturally, many people feel are afraid of contracting the virus originating from Wuhan city. When the immune system is weak, various viruses can indeed easily enter the body and cause infection, including the Coronavirus. In an effort to protect themselves from this virus, many people begin to look at supplements to strengthen the immune system.
Unfortunately, the notion that supplements can prevent Coronavirus is not entirely correct. Supplements can indeed provide us with the nutrition needed to support our health and immunity. However, this does not necessarily prevent our body from contracting the virus. Therefore, you must continue to eat nutritious food every day.
Nutrition received from food, such as protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, plays a greater role in supporting your body’s immune system than the supplements. Even so, it doesn’t hurt if you want to take supplements. However, be sure to use it as prescribed by your doctor, especially if you are pregnant or suffering from certain diseases. Although it does not include drugs, dietary supplements can also cause side effects if consumed in excess dosage.
If you want to increase endurance, you also need to exercise every day, meet your sleep needs, stop smoking, stay away from alcoholic beverages, and control stress. In addition, do not forget to always include other preventive measures in your daily activities. Namely by diligently washing your hands using water and soap or hand sanitizer and not touching the nose, mouth, or eyes before washing hands. The use of a mask is necessary if you are near people who are coughing and fever, or if you yourself are sick.
The excess supplement can harm your body
Food supplements became one of the hunted items during this coronavirus outbreak. But, it must be remembered to use them wisely, because if you consume the supplements in higher quantity, immunity actually decreases. If we have eaten complete and balanced nutrition, we don’t need to intake supplements. The consumption of supplements is OK if our bodies do not get enough nutritional intake. We should take the nutrition supplements as per the guidelines of the Ministry of Health.
It must be remembered that the supplements if consumed in more than recommended doses, then you may experience side effects. Such as heart rhythm abnormalities, impaired blood clots. In addition, excess vitamin C and B6 can cause gastrointestinal disorders such as nausea, and ulcers, thus reducing the immune system in the body.
Therefore, always make sure that you take the recommended doses of supplements as per doctor’s instructions.
How many vitamin supplements are needed?
As mentioned earlier, excessive consumption of supplements or vitamins can have bad side effects on the body. Consumption of supplements will be much better if based on a prescription from a doctor.Quoted from the National Health Service (NHS), for example for excessive consumption of vitamin C which is more than 1,000 milligrams per day can result in abdominal pain, diarrhea, and excessive angina discharge.
Health institutions in the United States such as the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) and WHO state that the only way to minimize transmission of COVID-19 is to take preventative measures such as physical distancing and diligent hand washing.
The link between vitamin supplements and COVID-19
WHO states that there are currently no medicines or supplements that definitely prevent a person from contracting COVID-19. Questions related to the effects of vitamin C to increase the body immunity and prevent transmission and even cure COVID-109 are also widely discussed. So far there has been no research that vitamin C really makes people immune to COVID-19 let alone heal by consuming large amounts.
Another myth that also circulates around supplements is vitamin D. The answer is the same, so far there have been no research or clinical trials that prove the consumption of certain vitamins in large quantities can help prevent or cure COVID-19.
Supplements to increase your immunity
The athletes need to maintain a healthy diet and supply all the vitamins that the body needs, everyone knows, so they often incorporate supplements in their diet. But in addition to bringing benefits, such as helping with mass gain, they can also be a good alternative for those who want to strengthen the immune system. These supplements can be useful to increase your immunity in the midst of this pandemic of COVID 19. some of such supplements are as follows:
1. Whey protein
This is the first name that comes to mind when it comes to supplementation. Whey Protein has a growing reputation inside and outside the gym, precisely because it is one of the best sources of protein. Full of nutrients, Whey also influences the production of antibodies, especially immunoglobulins. There have been studies since the 1980s that demonstrate the great influence of whey proteins on the immune system and how this food can provide a substrate for the body’s defenses.
2. Multivitamin
Produced with the fusion of several vitamins and minerals, this supplement is present both in the routine of bodybuilders and in the medical indications for sedentary people. That’s because the list of benefits is extensive and guarantees the number of nutrients that the body needs for a healthy routine. The multivitamin acts on immunity and also on antioxidant defense, in addition to being beneficial even for bone health and for the conduction of nerve impulse.
3. ZMA
This supplement is produced with a combination of zinc, magnesium, chromium, and vitamin B6. This combination was created precisely because the deficiencies of Zinc and Magnesium are related to the reduction of exercise tolerance and also to the reduction of the immune system. Several studies have pointed to the drop in the concentrations of these nutrients in the blood and tissues after training and competition. Therefore, supplementation with ZMA can be an excellent strategy to ensure the performance of the immune system.
4. Fish oil
Fish oil has been increasingly consumed by those who practice physical activities. This is because the main asset of its composition, omega-3, brings benefits for post-workout recovery and combats free radicals. Fish oil capsules are also indicated for those who want to improve the functions of the immune system and fight inflammation caused by exercise, in addition to reducing cholesterol levels and contributing to cardiovascular health.
5. Glutamine
According to the Nutritionist at Growth Supplements, glutamine is an amino acid also used in the treatment and post-operative recovery. In the context of physical activity, this supplement acts to reduce oxidative stress and muscle recovery. Glutamine also helps in the recovery of the immune system precisely for this effect. It offers the glycogen used by muscle tissue and can be a great ally for full health.
6. Vitamin D
Vitamin D, which is also often called solar vitamin is one of the fat-soluble substances involved in the immune system. It enhances the action of macrophages and monocytes, which enter the fight against viruses and pathogenic bacteria. These substances are white blood cells that are responsible for protecting the body, reducing the level of inflammatory processes, and stimulating the immune response. Today, many people on the planet are deficient in vitamin D, which has a negative effect on immunity.
Scientists often associate a lack of this vitamin with an increased risk of developing infectious diseases of the upper respiratory tract. In some cases, vitamin D deficiency can cause allergic asthma.
The results of some studies demonstrate that the inclusion of supplements with a high content of vitamin D in the diet improves the functioning of the immune system. Moreover, increasing blood levels of vitamin D helps protect the upper respiratory tract from infections.
So, studies conducted in 2019 with the participation of 11 thousand people showed that the addition of vitamin D to the diet provides a significant reduction in cases of infectious and respiratory diseases.
In other experiments, scientists were able to establish that the addition of vitamin D accelerates the antiviral treatment of a number of infectious diseases, including HIV and hepatitis C. To ensure a similar effect, 1000 to 4000 ME of vitamin D was included in the diet, which is quite enough for most people. However, people with vitamin D deficiency needed a higher dose.
7. Zinc
Zinc is the most common mineral in pharmacology that is used to strengthen the immune system. It is often added to candies and various mineral complexes designed to improve immunity.
This is due to the fact that this trace element is necessary to reduce inflammatory processes, the development of immune cells, and provide a connection between them. An acute deficiency of this nutrient can lead to serious disorders of the immune system.
This, in turn, significantly increases the risk of developing infectious diseases, especially pneumonia. As of today, about 2 billion people worldwide are experiencing zinc deficiency. Most often, a deficiency of this nutrient is observed in the elderly.
About 30 percent of people over 60 years of age need additional zinc intake.The results of many studies show that the inclusion of additives with a high content of zinc in the diet can reduce the risk of developing respiratory diseases. Moreover, an additional intake of zinc can speed up the healing process.
Studies conducted in 2019 among 64 children with acute infectious diseases of the lower respiratory tract showed that taking 30 milligrams of zinc per day reduces the duration of the disease by an average of two days. The use of zinc over a long period in most cases does not pose a threat to the body.
However, this statement is relevant provided that no more than 40 milligrams of the substance are included in the diet. Exceeding this volume can cause a decrease in copper absorption, which will lead to an increased risk of infection with infectious diseases.
8. Vitamin C
One of the most popular supplements in the world is vitamin C. It is used to strengthen immunity since this substance plays an important role in the body’s defense system. This vitamin is necessary to maintain the functions of immune cells and increase their protective properties.
In addition, vitamin C is used by the body to remove dead immune cells and create new ones. In addition to the above, this nutrient acts as an antioxidant that protects cells from damage associated with oxidative stress. The latter process can negatively affect the functioning of the immune system, and can also cause the development of a number of diseases.
Scientists have proven that the inclusion of supplements with a high content of vitamin C in the diet reduces the duration of infectious diseases of the upper respiratory tract. Therefore, most often it is used in the treatment of colds. A detailed study of the results of 29 studies involving 11 thousand people showed a decrease in the duration of diseases in adults by 8 percent when adding from 1 to 2 grams of vitamin C per day in the diet. Moreover, in children, the duration of the disease decreased on average by 14 percent.
At the same time, it was found that regular consumption of vitamin C reduces the incidence of diseases in individuals whose body is subject to high and frequent physical exertion. In addition, scientists have found that large-volume intravenous administration of vitamin C eliminates symptoms in people with severe infections. So, this nutrient eliminated most of the symptoms of sepsis resulting from viral infections.
All the above results show that vitamin C supplements can have a positive effect on the state of the immune system. However, before including them in the diet, it is important to consider that the maximum allowable dose of vitamin C for an adult is 2000 milligrams. At the same time, the recommended amount of consumption ranges from 250 to 1000 milligrams.
9. Black elderberry
Sambucus nigra, also known as black elderberry, has been used to treat infectious diseases for a long time. Despite this, its effect on the state of the immune system is still being studied.
As part of laboratory studies, it was found that elderberry extract shows strong antibacterial properties, and also counteracts bacterial pathogens that cause diseases of the upper respiratory tract. At the same time, the supplement enhances the response of the immune system to viral infections, which reduces the duration of the treatment period and eliminates most of the symptoms.
An analysis of 4 research works in which 180 people took part showed that adding elderberry to the diet eliminates the symptoms of viral infections. At the same time, an analysis of a study conducted in 2004, in which people with influenza took part.
It showed that adding 60 milliliters of the extract of this plant per day eliminates the symptoms four days earlier compared to traditional medicines. But it is important to note that the latest study was sponsored by syrup manufacturers, which may cause data corruption.
10. Vitamin B12
B12 is an important aide in metabolism, which is also involved in the creation and maintenance of blood vessels. It also stabilizes the central nervous system. Given that many people don’t get high-quality proteins from everyday food, adding B12 to your diet is a wise move. Vegetarians, the elderly, and people with certain diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, such as celiac disease, especially need this vitamin.
11. Calcium
It is well known that this mineral is needed to preserve bones and teeth. In fact, it is also largely involved in the functioning of muscles, blood circulation, the functioning of the hormonal system, as well as in the exchange of information in the brain. Our bodies themselves do not produce calcium. Therefore, we need to get it through food or supplements. During the period of development of the child, special attention should be paid to the sufficient intake of calcium by the body. It is also important for a middle-aged woman to avoid osteoporosis.
12. Probiotics and Prebiotics
Probiotics are a system of microflora in the body and are directly related to the processes taking place in the body since immunity begins in the intestines. These are bacteria that produce active substances to maintain the immune system and prevent the multiplication of pathogenic microorganisms that cause the disease. Probiotics also provide a healthy intestinal mucosa to absorb the active substances and vitamins needed by the body.
Probiotics are recommended for preventive purposes to strengthen immunity in the form of a course – 2-3 weeks. It is also advisable to take them after taking antibiotics, as antibiotics kill both bad and good bacteria. Prebiotics are fiber, which provides microflora regeneration and nutrition. It is advisable to take them daily to ensure the active effect of probiotics.
13. Echinacea
Echinacea has become a classic natural remedy in times of colds to prevent them or to minimize associated symptoms. The correct functioning of the immune system is vital to maintain an optimal state of health.
We can complement our usual diet with food supplements that help maintain normal immune function and strengthen our defenses against external agents. Nature offers us multiple possibilities with ingredients such as echinacea, among others. The mechanism of action of echinacea is based on an increase in immunity.
In studies carried out, both in animals and in humans, echinacea preparations administered orally or parenterally act on the immune system producing various effects. Such as stimulation of phagocytosis and induction of the production of lymphocytes and other cells of the immune system.
This is confirmed by a meta-analysis published by the scientific journal The Lancet. The researchers from the University of Connecticut have carried out a review of fourteen studies that analyze the properties of this medicinal plant in the treatment of the common cold.
The authors conclude that early intervention with a standardized formulation of echinacea was found to reduce the severity of symptoms in subjects with upper respiratory tract infection. Based on these conclusions, we can rest easy by supplementing our healthy diet with an echinacea supplement that helps us strengthen our defenses or minimize symptoms in the event of a cold.
14. Propolis (bee glue)
Bees produce propolis, a resin-like compound, which gives it the nickname bee tail. According to a 2019 study published in the Journal of Family and Community Medicine, bee glue is a natural immunomodulatory agent.
According to the author, propolis and / or its ingredients could be promising to [alter] the immune response and induce immunomodulation. Those who use propolis trust it for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiallergic properties.
15. Curcumin
Curcumin is a bright yellow chemical produced by the plant genus Curcuma longa. Turmeric takes its color from curcumin and has many medicinal benefits. Related, curcumin is one of the best scientifically researched and validated natural treatments in the world.
Research shows that curcumin is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Healers recommend curcumin as a primary or supplemental treatment for various conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and even depression and Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
16. Vitamin A
A fat-soluble vitamin, which is also known in its precursor beta-carotene, not only supports the immune system but also bones and teeth. So make sure you take it in sufficient amounts, if necessary also through supplements.
17. Papaya
It is worth highlighting the properties of the FPP fermented papaya extract. It is a food supplement that stimulates the natural defenses, increasing the body’s immunity, in addition to having a high antioxidant and detoxifying power. It also contributes to rapid recovery after an effort, which is why it is highly indicated for athletes.
18. Royal jelly
It is a highly nutritious substance that is obtained from bees. Among its many effects and properties, it stimulates the nervous and immune systems since it increases the proliferation of lymphocytes, that is, the defenses. You will find it in different presentations: mixed with honey from bees, pollen, and propolis, in capsules, pills, or fresh.
19. Vitamin K
Many researchers are currently focusing on developing vaccines against the new type of coronavirus that causes Covid-19 disease. In the meantime, a few of them also advised the community to continue to maintain body immunity and stay as healthy as possible as an important part of preventing this deadly disease and compilation of other diseases.
As reported by the Times Now News page, according to a recent report in the Guardian, patients who have died or have been treated in intensive care units (ICU) because Covid-19 has been observed to experience a deficiency in one nutrient, namely vitamin K.
These micronutrients can have a positive effect on combating Covid-19. The researchers studied patients treated at Canisius Wilhelmina Hospital in the city of Nijmegen, the Netherlands. They found an association between vitamin K deficiency and Covid-19 positive patients who were worst affected.
According to the latest research, Covid-19 is known to cause blood clots. This also leads to the degradation of elastic fibers in the lungs. While Vitamin K is an important nutrient that helps in the production of proteins that regulate clotting and can protect the lungs too. A scientist working on the project, Dr. Rob Janssen said that while paying attention to the initial findings of the study, he would recommend a healthy intake of vitamin K, except for those who use blood-thinning drugs such as warfarin.
By adding these vitamin K-rich ingredients, people not only reduce the risk of complications from Covid-19 but also keep the body healthy overall. Some foods that contain vitamin K include green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, cabbage, and broccoli. Then, fish also contain vitamin K but in smaller amounts. Eggs are also rich in nutrients. Cheese is also rich in vitamin K.
20. Beta-glucan
Stars of strong immunity include beta-glucan, a polysaccharide whose molecules are bound by beta-glycosidic bonds. Beta-glucan works by stimulating the formation of bone marrow, which simultaneously activates the production of leukocytes and platelets responsible for fighting infections. It also activates macrophages, leukocyte cells whose main task is to protect against the attack of foreign cells on our bodies.
Research has shown that beta-glucan also works to strengthen the defenses against attacks by all types of microorganisms – bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Beta-glucans will be found in foods such as medicinal mushrooms, barley, and oats, but the amounts we take from food will not be enough to significantly strengthen immunity, so it is better to take it as a dietary supplement.
21. Coenzyme Q10
Considered a kind of relative of vitamin E, coenzyme Q10 stimulates the immune system by stimulating circulation and energy production in the cell. Because it has an important function in regulating the energy processes of the cell, it can reduce the damage caused by stroke or heart attack and enhance athletic performance and improve physical fitness.
22. Astragalus
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceous) is a medicinal plant that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Often in combination with other herbs for the purpose of strengthening the body’s defenses. Astragalus as a rich source of polysaccharides (glucans), saponins, and antioxidants has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties and is therefore considered an effective immunomodulator.
23. Green tea extract
In recent years, tea has been intensively studied for its beneficial effects on health, and more and more studies show that polyphenols, phytochemicals contained in tea, can help reduce the risk of some serious diseases. Such as cardiovascular disease and some types of cancer. Tea catechins possess a number of pharmacological effects; antioxidant, antimutagenic, anticarcinogenic, and anti-inflammatory action.
Green tea has the largest number of scientific studies that seek to investigate the impact of tea on human health. This is because green tea retains the most polyphenols, molecules that are attributed to many beneficial effects of tea.
The polyphenol that is considered to be the most powerful active substance in green tea is epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a type of catechin. Therefore, it is always useful to check on the declaration of a dietary supplement whether it contains a standardized dose of catechins.
Conclusion
Most of the nutritional supplements available today in online stores can have a positive effect on the state of the immune system. These include elderberry, zinc, selenium, as well as vitamins C and D, and many others. Despite their beneficial properties, scientists strongly do not recommend using them instead of drugs and replacing them with ordinary foods.
A balanced diet, healthy sleep, regular exercise, and giving up bad habits are the most effective ways to maintain the immune system and reduce the risk of infectious and viral diseases.
If you decide to include any of the above supplements in your diet, consult your doctor first. This recommendation is due to the fact that some of the additives can interact with drugs, which can lead not only to a decrease in effectiveness but also to negative consequences. It is also important to remember that at the moment there is no information that none of the above supplements, despite the antiviral properties, can protect your body from COVID-19.