The immune health supplement market is filled with claims. Let's examine what science actually supports.
Ingredients with Strong Evidence
Vitamin D (1,000-2,000 IU daily) Evidence: Multiple RCTs show reduced respiratory infection risk Mechanism: Modulates both innate and adaptive immunity Population: Especially important for those with deficiency (<30 ng/mL) Verdict: ✅ Strong evidence
Vitamin C (500-1,000mg daily) Evidence: Reduces cold duration by 8%, severity by 15% Mechanism: Supports neutrophil function, antioxidant protection Note: Doesn't prevent colds in general population (only in extreme stress scenarios) Verdict: ✅ Moderate evidence (duration/severity, not prevention)
Zinc (15-30mg daily) Evidence: Reduces cold duration if taken within 24 hours of symptoms Mechanism: Essential for T-cell development and function Caution: Don't exceed 40mg daily (copper deficiency risk) Verdict: ✅ Moderate-strong evidence
Probiotics (Specific Strains) Evidence: Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium reduce respiratory infection risk Mechanism: Gut-immune axis modulation Important: Strain-specific effects (not all probiotics equal) Verdict: ✅ Moderate evidence for specific strains
Ingredients with Weak Evidence
Elderberry Evidence: Limited RCTs, small sample sizes Verdict: ⚠️ Preliminary evidence, needs more research
Echinacea Evidence: Inconsistent results across studies Verdict: ⚠️ Mixed evidence
Garlic Evidence: Some observational data, limited RCTs Verdict: ⚠️ Weak evidence
"Superfood" Extracts (Acai, Goji, etc.) Evidence: Mostly in vitro or animal studies Verdict: ❌ Insufficient human evidence
Marketing vs Reality
Red Flags:
- "Boosts immunity 300%" (no credible measurement)
- "Ancient remedy" (tradition ≠ evidence)
- Proprietary blends (hidden dosages)
- "Clinically proven" without citing studies
Evidence-Based Immune Support Formula
Core Ingredients (Strong Evidence):
- Vitamin D: 1,000-2,000 IU
- Vitamin C: 500-1,000mg
- Zinc: 15-25mg
- Protein: 20g (supports immune cell production)
Optional Additions:
- Specific probiotic strains (Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium lactis)
- Vitamin A: 3,000-5,000 IU
- Selenium: 55-100μg
Honest Immune Product Development
UNO Nutrition formulates immune support products based on:
- Published clinical evidence
- Effective dosages (not token amounts)
- Transparent ingredient lists
- Realistic health claims
We help brands develop credible immune products that deliver real value, not just marketing hype.
Perfect for pharmacies and healthcare providers who want evidence-based products they can recommend with confidence.