Immune System – An Overview of Dietary Supplements

The immune system isn't a single organ; it's a network of different systems working together within the body. These include the skin and mucous membranes, which act as a physical barrier, the lymphatic system, the gut with its microbial flora, and specialised cells in the blood and tissues. These systems work together continuously and are influenced by numerous factors – from diet and sleep to environmental influences such as oxidative stress.

Factors that affect the immune system in everyday life

Several lifestyle factors are closely linked to the body's natural defences:

• Diet – a varied intake of vitamins, minerals, and fibre provides the building blocks for numerous metabolic processes.
• Sleep – getting enough rest affects many of the body's regenerative functions.
• Exercise – regular, moderate physical activity is often discussed in relation to overall well-being.
• Stress – prolonged stressful situations can affect various bodily systems.
• Season – especially in the autumn and winter months, when light conditions and dietary habits change, people often focus more on issues like vitamin D.

A focus on micronutrients

Various vitamins and minerals play a role in the body's normal metabolic processes, including those linked to the functioning of the immune system.

• Vitamin C: a water-soluble vitamin that the body cannot produce or store on its own. Therefore, it must be regularly obtained through food or dietary supplements. Rich sources include citrus fruits, peppers, and berries.
• Vitamin D is largely produced when the skin is exposed to sunlight. In Central Europe, the body's ability to produce vitamin D is often limited during the months with less sunlight (roughly October to March), which is why many people supplement their intake through their diet or with supplements during this period.
• Zinc: a trace element involved in numerous enzymatic processes in the body. The body doesn't have large storage reserves, so regular intake is important.
• Selenium is a trace element with antioxidant properties. Its availability in soil varies, which also affects the selenium content of plant-based foods.
• Vitamins B6 and B12, and folic acid These B vitamins play a role in various cellular processes, including cell division and energy metabolism.
• Iron: a trace element that is important for, among other things, transporting oxygen in the blood. Certain groups of people, such as women of childbearing age, often pay more attention to their iron intake.
• Probiotics and prebiotics A large proportion of the body's immune cells are located in the gut. Probiotics (live bacterial cultures) and prebiotics (nutrients for these bacteria) are therefore often discussed in the context of a balanced gut flora.
• Cysteine and amino acids: Certain amino acids, such as cysteine, are building blocks for the body's own processes, including the formation of glutathione, a cell's own antioxidant.

Product forms in the range

Dietary supplements for this area are available in various forms:

What to consider when choosing

• Dosage – Supplements vary in the amount of each vital substance per serving.
• Combination – some products combine several micronutrients (e.g., vitamin D3 plus K2), while others provide a single substance in a targeted manner.
• Dietary options – vegan, vegetarian, or allergen-free (e.g., gluten-free, lactose-free) variants are labelled.
• Dosage form – depending on your personal preference, capsules, powders, or other forms are available.
• Target group – some products are tailored to specific groups, such as athletes, women, or children.

Target groups

• The general population – to supplement a balanced diet in everyday life.
• People with limited sun exposure – for example, during the winter months or when they spend most of their time indoors.
• People with specific diets – for example, a vegan diet, where certain nutrients (such as vitamin B12) are primarily sourced from animal foods.
• People who are physically active – with a potentially increased need for certain micronutrients due to physical exertion.