There are still no medicines or vaccinations to treat COVID-19, so many people turn to dietary supplements
Dietary supplements as protection against the corona virus? – The most important thing to start with: There are no nutritional supplements that can prevent infection with the new corona virus. They are generally not used to treat illnesses, even if advertising may promise otherwise.
There are currently no medicines to treat COVID-19 disease, nor are there any vaccinations. This is where providers step into the breach and suggest prevention through nutritional supplements.
Dietary supplement to strengthen the immune system
Since there are still no medications or vaccinations against the new coronavirus, many people are hoping for some support or reinforcement of the immune system through nutritional supplements.
A boom is currently taking place. Products are advertised and promise all sorts of effects and healing opportunities. But the immune system can be strengthened primarily through a balanced diet and exercise.
There is no evidence as to whether plant substances and micronutrients have an influence on the immune system. Most vitamin preparations are also dosed so high that the body excretes unnecessary substances such as vitamin C.
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Legal and misleading advertising
Dietary supplements are not medicines, but are classified as foods according to the law.
Advertising such as “Protects against viruses” or “Cures disease XY” is therefore prohibited without exception. Advertisements of this type are even more dangerous when they refer to a specific illness. If advertising for a product promises that it prevents viruses or even kills them, this is simply false and misleading, as there is no food that has this effect on the coronavirus, for example.
But right now you can find countless offers from more or less reputable providers that promote alternative remedies and dubious promises.
Whenever you read about such products, you should always ask yourself who is interested in reporting on them. Unfortunately, many blogs or forums contain providers who are disguised as “commentators” and offer their products in order to make a profit for themselves.
Defense and disinfection
Advertisements that promise that by taking certain plants, drinks or vitamins you can ward off all viral and bacterial threats - including the novel coronavirus - lull some people into a false sense of security. From a scientific perspective, these are also wrong.
There are even dangerous tips circulating, such as taking MMS (Miracle Mineral Supplement) and sometimes CDL (chlorine dioxide solution) to protect against the corona virus. However, this is a bleaching agent for textiles that you should definitely not use!
Vitamins such as vitamin D, vitamin C, folate, B12, B6 and vitamin A contribute to the normal function of the immune system.
This information can also be used to advertise dietary supplements. However, it is necessary to pay attention to the dosage here. The same applies to minerals. Selenium, zinc, iron and copper are important for our immune system. However, if too many minerals are taken, it disrupts the control circuits in the body. You should only take these if there was a previous deficit.
The promotion of cannabidiol (CBD) against the corona virus is particularly current and popular, but it is not permitted as a food or dietary supplement. There is no scientific evidence to support the statement that CBD “could have the potential” to “be an important component in the treatment or prevention of viral diseases”.
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How to strengthen your immune system
Exercise outdoors: Go for a walk and get some sun on your skin. This stimulates the body's own vitamin D production. But be careful! Due to local, legally recommended restrictions, use your garden, your balcony or even the open window.
Balanced diet: Eat plenty of vegetables and fruit. These are still considered the most important suppliers of vitamins and minerals.
Drink plenty of water and fresh air: Ventilate regularly and drink enough water. This way you avoid dry mucous membranes, which almost attract viruses.
Adequate sleep: Make sure you get enough sleep.
Hygiene: Your own personal hygiene and also the hygiene when preparing food should be at a high level.
Conclusion
Alternative remedies can currently be classified as particularly dangerous. On the one hand, they do not have the desired effect, suggest an effect that they do not have and make people lull themselves into a false sense of security. What's more, they are usually sold to consumers at high prices.
If you are still considering a purchase, precise preliminary information is essential: what does the manufacturer or provider promise, is the data provided within the realm of reality. Medical advice should be sought for high-dose dietary supplements in order to prevent possible intolerances or overdoses.
Here again, it is a good idea to remain critical and view alleged “cures” with healthy skepticism.
Contact if you have any questions or uncertainties
If you have any questions or uncertainties about dietary supplements and their manufacturers and suppliers, please use the following contact points:
- Food Association Germany
- Association of Dietitians German Federal Association eV (VDD)
- Association of Dieticians in Austria
- Association of Nutritional Scientists in Austria (VEÖ)
- Austrian Society for Nutrition (ÖGE)
- Consumer advice center Klartext nutritional supplements
- Vienna Chamber of Labor (PDF)
Source: North Rhine-Westphalia Consumer Center
Article image: Shutterstock / By Viktoriia LiSa
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