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Immune Support: Pharmacists Module 3, 2024
A healthy immune system is needed to fight infection, prevent disease, and maintain overall
well-being. Lifestyle factors like diet, exercise and stress levels influence immune function.
The use of immune-supporting supplements has increased significantly in the last few years,
particularly since the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic. Dietary supplements are not
meant to treat, cure, or prevent diseases; but are intended to add to or ‘supplement’ a
healthy diet. Immune-supporting supplements can contain a vast array of ingredients,
ranging from vitamins and minerals to herbal compounds. When used in the correct
circumstances, immune-supporting supplements are beneficial for health and immunity. It is
important for the community pharmacist to discern when an immune-supporting supplement
may benefit a customer.Pharmacists should familiarise themselves with the most common ingredients found in
immune supplements and how they function within the body. Furthermore, identifying which
groups of people are vulnerable to immune impairment is key to advising on suitable
products.As a pharmacist, it’s important to discern which supplements are safe to recommend and
may offer genuine benefits to individuals and when to approach supplementation with
caution.
