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Marketing Immune System BoostersBy: V. Deborah Culligan, RN, MPH, You have most likely seen the commercial on television where the women are talking about how much better they feel because they are eating yogurt with a probiotic in it. You may have also seen products that claim to boost your immune system, like Crystal Light Immunity. Once again, a small amount of research gets turned into a huge marketing campaign. As we seek the cure to a long and healthy life, corporations are just all too willing to “help” by providing you with the products that you think hold the key. Who can blame us when the marketing of such products plays right into our desires? FDA (Food and Drug Administration) regulations that allow structure/function claims require a sophisticated knowledge base that most of us just don't have. So while the claims on the product are not technically untrue, they really don't mean a heck of a lot! Probiotics are an example of an immune system booster. They have been around for some time, but consumer use is increasing, as spending tripled from 1994 to 2003. They are found as additives in certain foods or beverages, or in capsule, tablet, or powder form. Probiotics can be described as “friendly” or “helpful” bacteria. The most common ones in the market place fall into two groups: Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. Claims for their benefits include: aiding in reducing the severity of diarrhea, especially from antibiotics or certain bacteria; reducing bloating and irregularity; strengthening the body's immune system; and promoting digestive balance. Other encouraging research shows they may be beneficial in preventing and treating urinary tract infections; treating irritable bowel syndrome; and impacting the recurrence of bladder cancer. Probiotics may be an important player for the treatment/prevention of several diseases. While research looks promising, it is far from conclusive. There are concerns about safety, purity, potency and shelf life along with the studies on how it interacts with other bacteria in the body (as opposed to the test tube.) In the mean time, if you decide to try them, be sure you check with your health provider first. Take note of any unusual symptom and report them to your doctor. Because there are ongoing questions about their effectiveness and safety, use caution with young children, the elderly and persons with compromised immune systems. What about other products that claim to boost or strengthen the immune system? Experts in the study of the immune system do not believe that your can boost your immune system by adding vitamins and minerals as supplements or to foods. (The one exception to this might be with the frail elderly.) Most of the products that you see on the market claiming to enhance or support your immune system should be purchased ONLY because you want to eat that product, not because it will boost your immune system. However, it does appear that exercise can help your immune system to work better. Studies have shown that people who exercise regularly are sick less often than those who do not. The next “star” to come along in the nutrition world may be something called “quercetin.” It is an antioxidant that can bind to viruses and prevent them from reproducing. It is found in some foods, like apples, tea, onion and kale and also can be bought as a supplement. BUT, research is very preliminary, and like so many “stars” before it, may fail, when tested over time in humans. Your best bet for a healthy immune system is to exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet, rich in fruits and vegetables. For detailed written information on this topic, District residents can call QVHD, 248-4528 or request via email, info@qvhd.org
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Quinnipiack Valley Health District |
Phone. (203) 248-4528 |
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