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Our weekly news column bringing the most current, non-biased health
information to the consumer. |
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March 09, 2010 |
A Publication of QVHD |
Do You Need an Immune System Booster?
By: V. Deborah Culligan, RN, MPH,
Deputy Director QVHD
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 imply more than the reality of the ability of
the product.
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 symptoms 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.
Medical personnel suggest that there are some actions you can take to
improve your immune system health. It is a matter of replacing your
“bad” habits with “good” ones. They identify the following actions to
“boost” your immune system: Regular exercise; better nutrition, with a
diet high in fruits and vegetables and low in fats and sugar; shedding
excess pounds; adequate sleep; relaxation techniques to reduce stress;
and believe it or not, laughing more!
There will always be a next “superstar” to come along in the nutrition
world. A small amount of research that shows a positive health effect
may become a mass-marketing campaign. Don't rely on television ads that
promote a product as your source of education. Do a little research on
your own. As great a society as we are, and as far as we have come with
understanding the human body, we have yet to discover the “miracle
cures” for aging, weight loss, or the common cold!
Remember, it is important to let your health care provider know about
any alternate medical treatments you are using. Like any medicine,
dietary supplements and “natural” products can cause side effects,
trigger an allergic reaction or interact with other medicines you take.
This can make a condition worse.
For detailed written information on this topic, District residents can
call QVHD, 248-4528 or request via email,
info@qvhd.org. If you are very interested in alternative medicine,
visit the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine at
http://nccam.nih.gov/health .
| An Ounce of Prevention is a
publication of the Quinnipiack Valley Health District, located at
1151 Hartford Turnpike, North Haven, CT 06473. Telephone:
248-4528. An Ounce of Prevention is
written by V. Deborah Culligan. The articles are published in the following local newspapers, The Advisor &
Beth-Wood News.
The content is provided as health education and
information to help you make health decisions. It is not intended to
be legal or medical advice, or substitute for recommendations made
by your health care provider. Address all comments to the district
office. |
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