The drop in temperature during Boreal winter promotes blood circulation Respiratory viruses and reduces solar radiation, which affects function immune system. In this scenario, two Supplements are presented as relevant to cover common deficiencies: the Vitamin D and selenium. Many people wonder what are they for? and why health experts recommend them.
The cold season brings several factors together increase the risk of getting the flu or feeling tired. The respiratory tract becomes more vulnerable because fresh air weakens its natural defenses and makes it easier for viruses to colonize.
At the same time, climatic conditions and the need to stay inside increase the transmission of respiratory pathogensthat remain active longer in dry environments.
Less sunlight is another important factor. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) The vitamin D level drops during this timewhich can affect the body’s ability to respond to infections. When viruses begin to circulate more, the immune system uses more resources, causing fatigue in many people.
Given this scenario, several investigations have been observed how some supplements can help compensate for nutrient deficiencies that usually occur during the cold months. This support does not replace the natural function of the immune system, but can help maintain adequate levels of certain essential nutrients.
Nutrients analyzed by health organizations include Vitamin D and selenium stand out for their Relation to immune function and symptoms associated with respiratory infections. Both have been the subject of numerous studies linking them to cellular processes essential for the organism’s response to viruses and for energy production.
Although these nutrients are most commonly obtained through good nutrition and sun exposure, deficiencies can occur Dietary supplements can serve to compensate for these specific deficits and restore adequate levels..
Accordingly HealthLineamong the options of Vitamin D and selenium supplementation can be found:
The Vitamin D is involved in processes related to the immune response. It participates in the work of cells involved in the defense of microorganisms and modulates inflammatory mechanisms.
People with low levels may be more susceptible to respiratory infections. Research suggests that in people with deficiency Supplementation could slightly reduce the risk of developing illnesses such as the flu.
Regarding fatigue, it has been observed that deficiency may be associated with this symptom. When the deficiency is corrected, some studies report an improvement in physical strength of the upper and lower extremities. which could influence the reduction of fatigue.
He selenium participates in the formation of selenoproteins, essential for numerous human functions. According to the NIH, hundreds of millions of people worldwide are affected by this deficiency because of insufficient intake. People with medical conditions that involve dietary restrictions, such as: Some people, such as phenylketonuria, may be more susceptible to a deficiency of this mineral.
This nutrient is also a fundamental component of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory processes. Selenoproteins help limit cell damage and are involved in the response to infectious agents.
Animal studies showed effects of antiviral protection against influenza viruses. In chickens, various forms of supplementation reduced the amount of virus and increased the activity of compounds related to the immune response.
Its connection with fatigue has also been studied. Although deficiency may be associated with reduced immune function, Excessive consumption can cause negative effects, including fatigueTherefore, its use requires supervision.
Health organizations remind that dietary supplements do not prevent disease. Its function is Maintaining adequate nutrient levels so that the immune system can develop its usual mechanisms. In the absence of a deficiency, increased consumption through this option will neither speed recovery from infections nor prevent them from occurring.
Aside from that, An excess of vitamin D or selenium can have undesirable effectsincluding neurological changes, sleepiness or metabolic problems.
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