Important mention about coronavirus . No supplement will cure or prevent disease. During the coronavirus disease 2019 COVID-19 pandemic, it is especially important to understand that no amount of supplements, diets, or other lifestyle changes other than physical distancing, also known as social distancing, and proper hygiene will protect against COVID-19. There are currently no studies proving the effectiveness of any supplement for COVID-19.
Our immune system is a complex collection of cells, processes and chemicals that continuously protect the body from disease-causing pathogens, including viruses, toxins and bacteria. (, )
The key to preventing infections and disease is to keep your immune system healthy all year round. To achieve this, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle by choosing nutrient-rich foods, getting enough sleep and exercising.
In addition, some studies have shown that taking supplements of certain vitamins, minerals, herbs and other compounds can improve the immune response and potentially protect the body from disease.
However, be aware that some of these supplements may interact with prescription medications. Not all supplements are appropriate for different health conditions. Therefore, be sure to consult with a qualified physician.
Below, we've rounded up 15 supplements that are renowned for their immune-boosting properties.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble nutrient essential for health and immune function.
Vitamin D enhances the ability of monocytes and microphages—white blood cells important for immune defense—to fight off pathogens and also reduces inflammation, which promotes immune response. ()
A deficiency of this important vitamin can have an extremely negative impact on immune function. Low vitamin D levels have been linked to an increased risk of upper respiratory tract infections, including influenza and allergic asthma. ()
Scientists note that taking vitamin D supplements may improve immune response. By the way, recent studies have suggested that taking this vitamin can protect the body from respiratory tract infections.
In a 2020 review of randomized control trials involving 11,321 people, vitamin D supplements significantly reduced the risk of respiratory tract infections in people deficient in the vitamin, and also reduced the risk of infection in people with normal vitamin D levels. ()
This suggests that this vitamin has a general protective effect.
Another study notes that vitamin D may improve response to antiviral treatment in patients with certain infections, including hepatitis C and HIV. (, , )
Depending on the level of this vitamin in the body, it is enough for a person to consume from 1,000 to 4,000 IU of such supplements. However, it should be remembered that in cases of severe deficiency, a much larger dose may be required. ()
Conclusion:
Vitamin D is essential for immune system function. Adequate levels of this vitamin may reduce the risk of developing respiratory tract infections.
Bacterial agents for immunity
Bacterial immunomodulators are drugs based on elements of bacterial cells. With regular use of this medication, the body's resistance to pathogens increases. Their action is similar to the action of vaccines - the patient is injected with dead or live, but weakened bacteria, in response to this, active antibodies begin to be actively produced in the human body.
Bacterial agents include:
- Ribomunil;
- Lycopid;
- Imudon;
- IRS-19.
Ribomunil is a medicine in the form of capsules for oral administration. Most often prescribed in the complex treatment of colds and ENT diseases. The medication is approved for use during pregnancy, as well as for children over 5 months.
In rare cases, Ribomunil may cause side effects such as stool upset, nausea and increased body temperature.
Lykopid - increases the body's protective barrier and helps in the treatment of viral, infectious and inflammatory diseases. Contraindications include pregnancy and lactation.
Imudon is available in the form of tablets intended for absorption under the tongue 5-6 times a day. The medication is recommended for use in dental diseases of an infectious-inflammatory nature. The medicine is approved for use in children over 3 years of age.
Zinc
Zinc is a mineral that is often added to supplements and other health products, such as lozenges, intended to strengthen the immune system. This is due to the fact that zinc is extremely important for the functioning of the immune system.
This mineral is involved in cell development and interaction and also plays an important role in inflammatory reactions.
Zinc deficiency can seriously affect the normal functioning of the immune system, increasing the risk of various infections and diseases, including pneumonia. (, )
About 2 billion people worldwide suffer from zinc deficiency. ()
A deficiency of this mineral occurs in approximately 30% of older people.
Multiple studies have found that zinc supplements may protect the body from respiratory tract infections such as the common cold. (, )
Additionally, taking supplements may also be beneficial for those who are already sick.
A 2020 study of 64 children hospitalized with an acute lower respiratory tract infection found that taking 30 mg of zinc daily reduced the overall duration of infection and length of hospital stay by an average of 2 days compared with placebo. ()
Taking zinc supplements may also shorten the duration of a cold. Long-term zinc supplementation is generally safe for healthy adults as long as dosage recommendations of no more than 40 mg per day are followed. (, )
Excessive zinc intake can impair the absorption of copper, which increases the risk of infection.
Conclusion:
Zinc supplements may help protect against respiratory tract infections and also reduce the duration of such infections.
Interferon preparations
Interferon-based drugs are highly effective in both acute and chronic diseases of an infectious-inflammatory nature. They contain protective proteins that block the development of the infectious process. Such medications act on the body at the cellular level, increasing its protective properties and helping to actively fight the disease.
Effective interferon-based drugs include:
- Viferon;
- Anaferon;
- Interferon.
Interferon-based products not only improve immunity, but also eliminate the unpleasant symptoms of colds - soreness, redness and swelling of the throat, lacrimation, weakness, loss of strength and increased body temperature.
Interferon-based medications are approved for use in children over 3 years of age. In some cases, with excessively weakened immunity, the doctor may prescribe interferon to children after 1 year. In such situations, the dosage of the medicine is selected individually, depending on the age and general health of the child.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is perhaps the most popular supplement for protecting against infections. This is due to the important role that vitamin C plays in the immune system.
This vitamin supports the functions of various immune cells and also increases their ability to protect the body from infections. Additionally, vitamin C is essential for cell death, which helps keep the immune system healthy by removing old cells and replacing them with new ones. (, )
Vitamin C also acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting the body from damage caused by oxidative stress, a condition resulting from the accumulation of reactive molecules known as free radicals.
Oxidative stress is associated with many diseases and can negatively impact the health of the immune system. ()
Vitamin C supplements have been shown to reduce the duration and severity of upper respiratory tract infections, including the common cold. ()
A large review of 29 studies involving a total of 11,306 people found that regular vitamin C supplementation at 1-2 grams (on average) per day was associated with a reduction in the duration of colds by 8% in adults and 14% in children. . ()
It's worth noting that the review also found that taking regular vitamin C supplements led to a 50% reduction in the incidence of colds in people exposed to high levels of physical stress, such as soldiers and marathon runners. (, )
In addition, high-dose intravenous vitamin C has been found to significantly improve symptoms in patients with severe infections, including sepsis and acute respiratory distress syndrome, resulting from viral infections. ()
These results confirm that vitamin C supplements can have a significant impact on immunity, especially in those who do not get enough of the nutrient from food. (, )
The tolerable intake limit for vitamin C is 2000 mg per day. The daily dose of the supplement usually varies from 250 to 1000 mg. ()
Conclusion:
Vitamin C is vital for a healthy immune system. Vitamin C supplements have been shown to reduce the duration and severity of upper respiratory tract infections, including the common cold.
Preparations of bacterial origin
What drugs should I take to boost immunity from this series and how are they created? Presumably, these drugs carry out their protective functions with the help of fragments of bacterial cells they contain.
When interacting with them, those located in the foci of inflammation mutually destroy each other and thereby contribute to the release of their pathogenic influence.
Tablets for immunity, the origin of which is carried out using microbial influence: Bronchomunal, Imudon, Likopid, Ribomunil, Pyrogenal. Let's take a closer look:
- Bronchomunal contains cells of eight bacteria. It can be used by both children and adults, the only difference is the dosage. Children's bronchomunal - P, can be used for treatment from six months of age. Used to protect against diseases such as bronchitis, otitis media, tonsillitis, rhinitis, laryngitis. You need to drink it on an empty stomach for a month with breaks of 20 days. Sometimes side effects occur in the form of vomiting or nausea, or a slight increase in temperature.
- Imudon , a remedy for the treatment and preventive action of infections of the nasopharyngeal region and mouth. It, like other drugs of this origin, has bacterial lysates and fights according to the “wedge with wedge” principle. You can start giving it to children from the age of three.
- Lykopid is a synthetic medicine and it has analogues of fragmentary bacterial cellular structures. It is prescribed when there is a danger of getting sick again, or in cases of acute respiratory infections, herpes, lingering boils affecting the skin. These tablets are used sublingually and orally and have a certain treatment pattern. It should not be used by women who are pregnant and nursing mothers. Suitable for children from three years old.
- Ribomunil is used exclusively according to a rather complex scheme, which cannot be violated. It can be used to treat diseases of the respiratory system and ENT organs.
- Pyrogenal , like other drugs, contains several types of bacteria. Not suitable for self-use. You will not find it in tablets, but only in ampoules and suppositories. This is done for safety, to remove the temptation to use it, as it can have the exact opposite effect.
Elder
Black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) has long been used to treat infections.
Today, scientists are actively studying its effect on the immune system.
In laboratory studies, elderberry extract has demonstrated potent antibacterial and antiviral potential, effectively combating bacterial pathogens responsible for upper respiratory tract infections and strains of the influenza virus. (, )
The extract has also been shown to improve the immune response, help shorten the duration and severity of colds, and relieve symptoms associated with viral infections. (, )
A review of 4 randomized control trials of 180 people found that elderberry supplements significantly improved upper respiratory symptoms caused by viral infections. ()
An earlier 5-day study conducted in 2004 demonstrated that flu patients who received 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of elderberry syrup 4 times daily experienced symptom relief 4 days earlier than the group that did not receive such additives. ()
However, this study is now outdated. In addition, it was sponsored by the manufacturer of elderberry syrup, which may also have affected the results. ()
Elderberry supplements are most often sold in liquid or capsule form.
Conclusion:
Elderberry supplements may help relieve upper respiratory and flu symptoms caused by viral infections. However, more research is required.
Vitamins
Vitamins A, C, D, E, B2 and B6 are especially important for humans.
Vitamins themselves are not immunostimulants; they act on the immune system indirectly, participating in all metabolic processes, helping to produce hormones, and being antioxidants. Their deficiency negatively affects a person’s well-being and reduces his immunity.
Vitamins A, C, D, E, B2 and B6 are especially important for it. A lack of zinc and selenium has a negative effect on the immune system.
It is better to get minerals and vitamins from food. But this is not always possible, so vitamin complexes help out.
Immunity can be boosted by plant, animal, biogenic preparations, waste products of microbes, bacteria and fungi, and their synthetic analogues.
Echinacea P – based on plant materials
Echinacea purpurea, as an immunostimulant, has been known to folk medicine for a long time. Pharmacologists have assessed its activity and produce preparations from the plant in the form of alcoholic tinctures and tablets. The dietary supplement produced by Parapharm contains Echinacea purpurea herb powder, vitamin C and additives necessary for the formation of tablets.
They are packaged in plastic jars of 100 pieces. Each tablet contains 10 mg of vitamin C and 50 mg of echinacea powder. In this combination, the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effect is best manifested.
The drug will help increase the body's resistance to acute infections without complications, frequent colds, is suitable for the prevention of influenza and viral diseases, and will support the body during long-term treatment with antibiotics. To feel the effect of taking it, you need to continue it for at least a month, drinking 2 to 4 tablets three times a day.
Advantages:
- good preventive effect;
- simple procedure;
- convenient tablet form;
- no unpleasant odor;
- low price.
Flaws:
- allergic reactions are possible.
The drug is suitable for adults and children over 12 years of age for the treatment and prevention of colds and flu.
Biafishenol Fish oil Omega 3 D3 Forte – with fish oil
Those who constantly have fatty sea fish in their diet may not need the drug. For everyone else, it is simply extremely necessary, especially in autumn and winter: in addition to Omega 3-rich fish oil, it contains vitamin D, as well as flaxseed oil and a mixture of tocopherols.
Manufacturers position the dietary supplement as a cardiovascular and immunoboosting agent.
But its pharmacological action is much broader. A good mood, healthy skin, nails and hair are the visible results of the action of the drug’s components. The body absorbs calcium and phosphorus better, and the concentration of cholesterol in the blood decreases.
All useful substances are enclosed in a gelatin capsule, which is practically odorless. The drug should be stored where it will not be exposed to sunlight, preferably in the refrigerator. One package is enough for exactly the course of treatment: for a month three times a day with meals.
Advantages:
- complex action;
- improving the condition of bones and teeth;
- small capsule size;
- no strong fishy smell;
- low price.
Flaws:
- not recommended for pregnant and lactating women.
Dietary supplements produced by Biopharm are used to prevent deficiency of vitamin D and omega-3.
Vitamin D 600 IU – to normalize calcium metabolism and improve immunity
At the beginning of the 20th century, the German scientist Windaus received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for studying the properties and structure of vitamin D. Since then, rickets, which disfigured the bones of children, has become a thing of the past. But adults also need vitamin D: without it, calcium from the blood does not enter the bones, even if its concentration there is high. But the role of vitamin D in the body is not limited to this.
It is needed for the prevention of obesity and diabetes, the development of tumors, depression, and Parkinson's disease. Vitamin D is involved in the synthesis of hormones, improves reproductive function and strengthens innate or acquired immunity.
Taking capsules with a daily dose of vitamin D from Evalar will help you avoid many troubles. The risk of developing osteoporosis will decrease, colds will be less frequent, and the production of serotonin, which is called the “joy hormone,” will increase.
To do this, it is enough to take just one capsule per day with meals. The course is from 2 to 3 months. This is especially important in autumn and winter, when there is little sunlight and the natural production of vitamin D in the body decreases.
Advantages:
- can be taken without consulting a doctor;
- if you do not exceed the dosage, no side effects are observed;
- convenient capsules;
- The packaging is enough for 1 course of use.
Flaws:
- individual allergic reaction to the main or auxiliary components of the drug.
Dietary supplements are taken to normalize calcium metabolism in the autumn-winter period and increase immunity.
Vitamin D-3 – in liquid, easily digestible form
Vitamin D is a group of vitamins from D1 to D5. D2 and D3 are significant for humans. The last form, D3, is the transport form, and it is its concentration that is determined in the blood. When it is normal, the absorption of calcium in the intestines increases, and if the vitamin is not enough, it is washed out of the bones into the blood.
Vitamin D3 deficiency occurs even where there is a lot of sun - in the southern regions. What can we say about most of our country. Residents have to look for additional sources of this substance necessary for the body, without which strong immunity is impossible.
The membrane vitamin D receptor is found in most cells of the immune system, which it actively affects. In addition, vitamin D increases the production of endogenous antibiotics. They are a powerful remedy against bacteria, fungi and viruses, created by the body’s own.
Vitamin D prevents autoimmune and atopic diseases, prevents the development of asthma in children, and helps in the treatment of COPD. According to statistics, the vast majority of the population suffers from vitamin D deficiency. With the help of a product from the American company Now Vitamin D-3, this can be overcome.
The vitamin dosage of 5000 international units in one tablet is more than the daily requirement. Therefore, manufacturers recommend consulting with a doctor before taking it and taking tablets every other day with food containing fats, in which the vitamin is highly soluble.
Advantages:
- easily digestible liquid form;
- natural auxiliary components;
- soft tablets are easy to swallow;
- large packaging;
- long shelf life.
Flaws:
- for adults only.
Take dietary supplements to eliminate vitamin D deficiency after consultation with a doctor.
Solgar vitamin D3 600IU – only natural products
Solgar has its own gold standard for product quality. Even raw materials from trusted suppliers undergo repeated testing.
100% natural premium dietary supplements are produced in small batches and therefore simply cannot be cheap. The buyer pays for quality and environmental safety. Solgar vitamin D3 meets these criteria.
Each capsule contains 150 percent of the daily value of vitamin D3. This does not exceed the upper permissible level, but manufacturers still insist on consulting a doctor before taking it.
The benefits from it will be undoubted: bones will be strengthened, immunity will increase, and the health of hair, nails, and teeth will improve. The method of administration is very simple - one capsule with meals, once a day. In a dark glass jar - 60 or 120 capsules.
Advantages:
- high quality;
- vegetarian capsules;
- kosher product;
- absence of potential allergens.
Flaws:
- high price.
Solgar vitamin D3 is recommended for persons over 18 years of age.
Medicinal mushrooms
Medicinal mushrooms have been used since ancient times to treat and prevent infections and diseases. Many types of medicinal mushrooms have been studied for their immune-boosting potential.
More than 270 recognized species of medicinal mushrooms are known to have immunogenic properties. ()
Cordyceps, blackberry, maitake, shiitake, reishi and polypore are all good for the immune system. ()
Some research suggests that taking supplements of certain types of medicinal mushrooms can boost the immune system in several ways and relieve symptoms of a number of diseases, including asthma and lung infections.
For example, a study of mice with tuberculosis, a serious bacterial disease, found that treatment with cordyceps significantly reduced the bacterial load in the lungs, increased the immune response, and reduced inflammation compared with a placebo group. ()
In a randomized 8-week study of 79 adults, taking 1.68 grams of cordyceps extract resulted in a significant 38% improvement in the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, a type of white blood cell that protects the body from infections. ()
Polypore polypore is another medicinal mushroom that has a powerful effect on the immune system. Human studies have shown that this flu increases the immune response, especially in people with certain types of cancer. (, )
Many other types of medicinal mushrooms have also been studied for their immune-boosting potential. Medicinal mushroom products can be found in the form of tinctures, teas, and supplements. (, , , )
Conclusion:
Many varieties of medicinal mushrooms, including cordyceps and polypore polypore, strengthen the immune system and have an antibacterial effect.
Tablets to boost immunity in adults
Products of this type provide the immune system with the substances it needs to function (usually microelements and vitamins) or include inducers for the production of antibodies of various types.
Cycloferon
The active ingredient meglumine acridone acetate in Cycloferon improves the production of its own interferon in the body.
It is suitable for prevention and therapy, but is contraindicated in cirrhosis, during the gestational and lactation period. It is prescribed 0.45-0.6 g per day, in one dose, half an hour before meals. The treatment regimen requires drinking the indicated “portion” for the first two days in a row, the next 2 days - once every 48 hours, then - once every 72 hours. You can buy it for 366-390 rubles.
Amiksin
The tablet form of the drug is the only one that contains tilorone dihydrochloride. Amiksin restores the production of interferons and T-type leukocytes, but it is not recommended for use during pregnancy, lactation and liver pathologies.
Depending on the perceived threat, its dose is 0.125-0.25 g per day, the first two days in a row, then once every 48 hours, 1.5-6 months. It is drunk after any meal without chewing. The price of Amiksin is 583-850 rubles.
Ingavirin
Pentanedioic acid imidazolylethanamide, which forms the basis of the drug, is anti-inflammatory - not only an immunostimulant.
It is prohibited during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Immunity tablets for adults Ingavirin are prescribed 0.09 g, per dose every 24 hours, regardless of meals, for 5-7 days. It costs from 505 to 598 rubles.
Arbidol
Umifenovir, whose trade name is Arbidol, has repeatedly shown high effectiveness in alleviating the symptoms of infections and shortening the treatment period.
No teratogenic effect was found behind it, and there was no other serious side effect besides allergies. With caution, it is allowed for use during gestation and lactation. A single dose is 0.2 g. The regimen varies depending on the purpose of administration:
- prevention - prescribed dose once a day, twice a week;
- suspicion of infection - 1 “portion” per day, daily, 10-14 days;
- therapy - according to the prescribed dose every 6 hours, 5 days in a row.
Arbidol is cheap - for 20 tablets they ask for 250-290 rubles.
Rimantadine
An adamantane derivative called rimantadine hydrochloride is marketed under its own name. It helps strengthen the immune system by activating the work of lymphocytes and the synthesis of interferons, and is a fairly strong inducer of resistance.
Rimantadine produces a number of stimulating side effects on the central nervous system. It has not been tested for toxicity to the fetus and is not indicated for pregnant women or people with pathologies of the thyroid gland, kidneys, or liver.
On the 1st day of the disease, rimantadine is taken after meals, 3 times 0.1 g, on the 2nd and 3rd days - the same amount, but twice, on 4 days - 0.1 g and once. The prophylactic dose is 0.1 g daily, for a maximum of 15 days. A separate advantage of rimantadine is its low cost (65-200 rubles, depending on the dosage - 0.05 or 0.1 g).
Tamiflu
Oseltamivir, as an active component of Tamiflu, destroys antigens rather than strengthens the immune system.
But its aggressive action is aimed at neuraminidase, an enzyme in the envelope of many viruses and bacteria, which is not typical for plants. And it is the main “agent of penetration” of the pathogen into the target cell, especially mucous membranes, with rapid spread within the tissue.
Tamiflu tablets to enhance immunity are taken with food, 5 days, 75 mg per dose, twice a day, and prophylaxis - 75 mg daily, 10 days. It will cost 1124-1147 rubles.
Polyoxidonium
Azoximer bromide is an innovative development of Russian scientists, a complex polymer that “compacts” molecules in cell membranes and makes them impenetrable to most pathogens. It also accelerates the migration of stem cells that have completed proliferation from the bone marrow.
Polyoxidonium is non-toxic, does not cause side effects and is recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women (with caution). For mild forms it is given one tablet (12 mg) twice every 24 hours, for severe forms - once three times a day, in courses of two weeks. You can buy Polyoxidonium for 750-830 rubles.
Isoprinosine
Inosine pranobex is synthesized from purine (a protein breakdown product). It is focused primarily on increasing the number of lymphocytes and their production of interleukins. But it also activates macrophages with monocytes, acting as a means of preventing colds and other viral infections, with the exception of HIV.
Due to its specific origin, Isoprinosine is contraindicated for use in cases of gout and any kidney diseases, and is not recommended for pregnant/nursing mothers. It is prescribed in a volume of 50 mcg per kilogram of body weight per day, randomly divided into 3-4 servings. On average, there are up to 8 tablets per adult. at 24 hours, the course of therapy is up to 2 weeks. They ask for it 550-1870 rubles (depending on the country of production).
Dekaris
A relatively rare case in medicine occurred with levamisole as an active component of Dekaris. It was developed as an anthelmintic, but already in the process of being used as intended, it demonstrated immunity-enhancing properties.
Folk remedies
31.85%
Votes: 157
How is still unclear. Apparently, it increases the activity of T-type lymphocytes (the so-called killers, “hunters” of malignant, infected and defective cells) and macrophages.
6–15. Other Supplements to Boost Immunity
In addition to those listed above, there are many other supplements that can help improve your immune response:
Astragalus . Astragalus is a herbaceous plant used in traditional Chinese medicine. Animal studies suggest that this plant extract may significantly improve the immune response. ()
Selenium . Selenium is a mineral essential for a healthy immune system. Animal studies have demonstrated that selenium supplements may enhance the body's defense against influenza strains, including H1N1. (, , )
Garlic . Garlic has powerful anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. It strengthens the immune system by stimulating protective white blood cells such as NK cells and macrophages. However, clinical studies of this product are limited. (, )
Andrographis . This plant contains andrographolide, a terpenoid compound that has an antiviral effect, protecting the body from viruses that cause respiratory diseases, including enterovirus D68 and influenza A. (, , )
Licorice . Licorice contains many compounds, including glycyrrhizin, that may protect against viral infections. In laboratory studies, glycyrrhizin exhibits antiviral activity against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV). ()
Pelargonium sedum . Some clinical studies support the use of this plant extract to relieve symptoms of acute viral respiratory infections, including colds and bronchitis. However, the results of these studies are controversial and require further verification. ()
B vitamins . B vitamins, including B12 and , are essential for a healthy immune system. Many adults are deficient in these vitamins, which negatively affects the immune system. (, )
Curcumin . Curcumin is the main active component of turmeric. It has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and has been shown in animal studies to help improve immune function. ()
Echinacea . Echinacea is a genus of plants in the chamomile family. Some species have been shown to improve immunity and may have antiviral effects against several respiratory viruses, including respiratory syncytial virus and rhinoviruses. ()
Propolis . Propolis is a resin-like material produced by bees for use as a sealant for hives. While it has impressive immune-boosting properties and may also have antiviral properties, more research in humans is needed. ()
According to scientific research, the supplements listed above may have an immune-stimulating effect.
However, keep in mind that many of the potential effects of these supplements have not been thoroughly tested in humans, highlighting the need for future research.
Conclusion:
Astragalus, garlic, curcumin and echinacea are just a few of the supplements that can help strengthen your immune system. However, they have not yet been adequately tested in humans, so a number of additional clinical studies are required.
Products to strengthen the immune system
Immune protection directly depends on certain foods. To improve its condition, you should include the following in your diet:
- Garlic is considered a very useful remedy that effectively copes with pathogenic microorganisms. Every day you should eat 1 clove during meals, chewing it well. This will ensure that the active ingredients enter the bloodstream and activate the immune system.
- Wheat sprouts contain many B vitamins, which take part in various biochemical processes.
- Citrus fruits, especially lemon, provide ascorbic acid into the body. This substance helps activate the immune system.
- Ginger is useful at the first manifestations of a cold. Thanks to tea with this product, it is possible to stop inflammation and achieve an antipyretic effect. It successfully cleanses the body of toxins and toxic substances.
- Honey - a natural product contains many useful ingredients that provide reliable support for the immune system.
You should start your day with protein foods. An excellent option would be milk porridge, cottage cheese or eggs. Meat products are not recommended to be consumed in the morning.
Vegetable salads should be systematically prepared with lemon juice and olive oil. It is also useful to include a lot of fiber in the menu - fruits and vegetables.
Fermented milk products - fermented baked milk, yogurt, kefir - will be an excellent support for the immune system. They are a source of lactic acid bacteria, which help normalize the digestive process.
At the same time, you should reduce the consumption of smoked meats, fried foods, pickles, and sweet dishes. It is also worth remembering that alcoholic drinks negatively affect the immune system.
Tablets that increase immunity in children
The age under 12 years is unsafe for regulating immune activity due to the threat of “overdoing it.” A child does not always get sick more often than his parents due to defects in resistance. Most often, she just needs time to “self-debug” and get to know the “enemy.” Before the onset of adolescence, it is wiser not to resort to potent drugs that correct the proportions of antibodies. The rating of vitamins for children is here.
Lycopid
A substance with a difficult-to-pronounce name, glucosaminylmuramyl dipeptide, acts as an artificial analogue of a structural element of the bacterial cell wall called peptidoglycan.
Tops the list of children's immunostimulants for the safety and maintenance of high activity of phagocytes, unformed blood cells (carriers of the lysozyme enzyme), lymphocytes, cytokine proteins, and leukocytes.
Its entry into the body provokes an immune reaction similar to that observed during a bacterial infection. There is no toxicity of Lykopid to the kidneys, liver, fetus or infant.
These immunity tablets for children are taken half an hour before meals, 2 (mild forms of diseases, including chronic) or 10 mg (the “elusive” papilloma or herpes virus) per day, 10-20 days. The dosage form is suitable for swallowing and sublingual absorption. True, it is not cheap - 10 tablets. 1 mg each is estimated at 241-270 rubles, the same amount of 2 mg – 1710-1930 rubles.
Multivitamins
Drugs of this type do not change the level of activity or the proportion of protective bodies/proteins. They contain the components necessary for their synthesis and capture of pathogens, and help only with immunodeficiencies caused by malnutrition - diet, hunger itself, a diet rich in carbohydrates alone.
The resistance system has especially noticeably increased consumption indices of vitamins C, D, E, the minerals selenium, zinc, iron (only trivalent, divalent plant-based cannot be absorbed), and calcium.
The most widely used multivitamins are tablets. Among them, the most are complete - 30 or close to that elements in total (a complete set of currently known nutrients for the body). These include AlfaVit, .
But “solid” forms have disadvantages - slow absorption, high irritating potential for the mucous membranes of the stomach and intestines, especially given the need to drink them in long courses (30 days or more) with short breaks (maximum 2-3 weeks). Soluble multivitamins can eliminate them.
They are made in the form of effervescent tablets, after dissolution they form sweetish drinks of bright colors (yellow, orange), with a fruity, unobtrusive taste. Such drugs are absorbed several times faster and almost do not irritate the digestive tract.
This is a good solution for children and people with digestion/absorption disorders. The most complete among them seems to be Doppel Hertz from A to zinc (27 components) at a price of plus or minus 450 rubles. Take it 1 “fizzy drink” per day, preferably after meals.
Echinacea
The active substance, the main component of the drug and its name are the same. Echinacea in it is presented as a dry extract with a characteristic odor and is in the form of lozenges.
The plant has scientifically proven immunomodulatory properties due to its simultaneous content:
- bioflavonoids and tannins – antioxidants, natural antibiotics, anti-inflammatory, surface antiseptics;
- minerals - including calcium, zinc, manganese, and selenium necessary for the resistance system.
Usually the drug is enriched with vitamins C and E, 1 tablet is prescribed up to 4 times a day for 7 days. Echinacea is contraindicated if you are allergic to any flowers or their pollen, and is inexpensive - 120-200 rubles.
Mumiyo
In nature, the compound has a consistency slightly softer than stone and is found in the form of inclusions in its thickness.
Its origin does not cause appetite and consists in the natural decay and preservation of plant-organic accumulations in the relief of rocks. Shilajit in tablets works as a foreign, but not too toxic irritant for the immune system, which is not indicated for autoimmune diseases. It is used 1 piece at a time. (2 g) per day, for 14 days with a 7-day break.
Gotu kola
A Thai version of general tonic herbal medicine based on Asian centella. In Europe it is more valued as a laxative and diuretic, in Asia – as an immunostimulant.
In India, it is officially recognized as a medicinal plant and is widely used in Ayurveda. Gotu kola leaves are rich in terpenes (a component of tree resin with antiseptic properties), “invigorating” tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, including strong antioxidants quercetin and rutin (also have antitumor effects).
Tablets to boost immunity with its extract are taken 20 mg in the morning and evening, after meals, according to the 7/7 day schedule. They are contraindicated for mental disorders, pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract, and cancer of any location. Buy 100 tablets/caps. Gotu kola can cost 960-1100 rubles.
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