Reality and Misconceptions: Can Our Immune System Be Supported?

The immune system is one of our most important lines of defense, fighting against various pathogens. In everyday life, many of us do not consider how well this system functions and what factors influence its effectiveness. Healthy eating, adequate rest, and stress management all contribute to the optimal functioning of our immune system.

There are numerous alternative products and vitamins on the market that promise to strengthen the immune system. However, it is important to know that in many cases, the effectiveness of these products is not proven, and many advertised “miracle cures” actually have no correlation with the real strengthening of the immune system.

The scientific literature and expert opinions clearly indicate that for most people, a healthy lifestyle is sufficient for their immune system to function properly.

The functioning of the immune system and the myth of miracle cures

Most people’s immune systems function well and do not require special support. Zsolt Boldogkői, a professor at the University of Szeged, emphasizes that alternative immune-boosting products have no scientific basis. These products, which are often advertised, cannot strengthen the immune system. The weakening of the immune system is usually linked to specific diseases, but these issues do not affect the majority of the population.

The expert also points out that if these products were truly effective, they could lead to serious health problems, such as the development of autoimmune diseases. Therefore, the proper functioning of the immune system does not require the miracle cures available on the market, and the best we can do is maintain a healthy lifestyle.

The role of vitamins and minerals in nutrition

Vitamins and minerals are important for maintaining health, but not everyone needs to take supplements. People who eat a normal diet generally receive sufficient amounts of vitamins and minerals from their food, making vitamin supplementation unnecessary in many cases. Exceptions are those who do not have access to fresh vegetables and fruits, especially in the cold months, where moderate vitamin supplementation is recommended.

Taking extra doses of vitamins, such as vitamin C or E, does not always yield the expected results and can even lead to side effects in some cases, such as kidney stones or bloody urine. The therapeutic effects of vitamins need to be carefully examined, as in many cases, overdosing can result in the opposite effect.

Antioxidants and cancer prevention: the reality

Antioxidants, such as vitamin A and beta-carotene, have long been advocates for cancer prevention. Numerous studies have been conducted on whether these vitamins can reduce the risk of cancer. However, research shows that the situation may be the opposite: some studies have found that those taking beta-carotene and vitamin A had a higher rate of lung cancer mortality.

In the CARET trial, half of the participants were treated with antioxidants, while the other half received a placebo. The trial had to be halted because there was a dramatic increase in cancer cases among those taking antioxidants. Therefore, it is important to critically evaluate claims related to vitamins and antioxidants and not to blindly trust advertisements.

Probiotics: effectiveness and forms of application

Probiotics, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, are familiar concepts to many, as they are becoming increasingly popular for maintaining gut flora health. The use of capsule forms can help promote normal bowel function, but it is important to note that this does not equate to immune boosting. Allergists recommend that probiotics be used mainly for preventive purposes.

In some liquid probiotic products, the exact number of viable organisms is not always guaranteed, while this is much clearer in capsule forms. According to the Hungarian Food Codex, probiotic products must contain at least 10⁶/g of live microorganisms. Therefore, probiotics can be useful supplements for maintaining gut flora, but they do not replace a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Based on scientific research and expert opinions, it becomes clear that true immune strengthening does not depend on miracle cures, but on a conscious lifestyle and proper nutrition.