The study sheds light on how nutrition can influence the immune defense of athletes and introduces a new paradigm that distinguishes between immune resistance (destruction of pathogens) and immune tolerance (control of infections at non-damaging levels). Athletes are at increased risk of respiratory infections due to intense physical activity and stress, which can impair training and performance.
A balanced diet is crucial to avoid nutrient deficiencies that could weaken immune function.
Certain supplements such as probiotics, vitamin C and vitamin D are highlighted as “tolerogenic” interventions that can reduce infection without interfering with adaptation to exercise. Probiotics strengthen the intestinal barrier, while vitamin C minimizes oxidative stress as an antioxidantand vitamin D has anti-inflammatory properties.
The results show that athletes could benefit from targeted nutritional strategies, especially during periods of high stress or increased risk of infection. Further research is needed to validate the effect of tolerogenic supplements on athletes’ health and performance.
Background:
The health of the immune system is crucial for the performance of athletes, as respiratory and gastrointestinal infections often lead to training and competition failures. Previous assumptions that intensive training suppresses immune function are increasingly being questioned in current research. Instead, a new model is being proposed that takes into account both the resistance and tolerance of the immune system.
Goals:
The study aims to investigate the interactions between nutrition and the immune system and to identify strategies for optimized nutritional support in athletes.
Methodology:
The analysis is based on a literature review of current findings in nutritional immunology and includes both macronutrient and micronutrient-specific studies. Particular attention is paid to dietary supplements such as probiotics, vitamin C and vitamin D.
Results:
1. Risk factors for infections in athletes:
– Psychological stress, lack of sleep and traveling increase the risk of infection. Intensive training phases contribute only slightly to the incidence of infection.
2. Role of nutrition:
– A balanced intake of macro and micronutrients is necessary to support immune function. Vitamin C and D and probiotics in particular have shown positive effects.
– A vitamin D deficiency has been associated with an increased infection rate, especially in winter when sun exposure is limited.
3. Tolerogenic food supplements:
– Probiotics: Promote a healthy gut microbiota and modulate the immune response. Studies show a reduction in respiratory tract infections of around 50 % and a reduction in the duration of illness by two days.
– Vitamin C: Reduces oxidative stress and improves the immune response in athletes under intense stress. Supplements of 200 mg to 1 g daily reduced the frequency of respiratory infections by up to 50 %.
– Vitamin D: Strengthens the immune system by producing antimicrobial proteins and modulates inflammatory processes. Supplementation is particularly recommended in winter.
4. Integration into practice:
– The use of tolerogenic food supplements is safe and could be particularly useful in phases of increased risk of infection or intensive training.
Conclusion:
The study underlines the importance of nutrition and targeted supplements for the health of athletes. The presented model of immune tolerance offers new perspectives for the development of effective strategies to reduce infections and maintain performance. Further research is needed to evaluate the long-term effects and optimal dosing of tolerogenic supplements.