Poles are storming pharmacies. They think they're boosting their immunity, but they're damaging their kidneys and liver.
Authors: PAP ; Prepared by KKR • Source: PAP, Rynek Zdrowia • Published: October 29, 2025 10:05 PM • Updated: October 29, 2025 10:05 PM
With the first cold snap, Poles have rushed to pharmacies – supplement shelves are emptying faster than usual. Fear of colds, flu, and viruses is driving more and more people to reach for vitamins and immune-boosting supplements. Experts from the Silesian Medical University remind people that the fall and winter decline in immunity is a natural response to reduced physical activity, a poorer diet, and limited vitamin D synthesis, and they warn against excessive supplementation.
According to specialists, during this period it is important to remember about rational nutrition, which affects the condition and functioning of the immune system.
- Malnutrition, caused by insufficient intake of vitamins and trace elements, mainly zinc and selenium, may impair the body's ability to support the innate immune response - emphasized Prof. Paweł Ramos, head of the Department of Pharmacy at the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of the Medical University of Silesia .
He explained that deficiencies resulting from malnutrition can cause problems with cells such as leukocytes, T lymphocytes and NK cells - key in the fight against disease.
According to Professor Ramos, supplementing vitamin D is important during the fall and winter months, as it affects immune function , mucous membranes, and immune response. Due to limited sun exposure, most people in Poland have low levels of vitamin D. However, experts remind us that it's possible to overdose on vitamin D, so the dose should be individually adjusted and its concentration monitored.
Vitamin C also supports leukocytes and the mucous barrier, and when taken in the initial phase of infection, it may shorten its duration.
Sources of vitamin C are fresh vegetables and fruits, including:
- pepper,
- parsley,
- rosehips,
- blackcurrants
- and kiwi.
According to the scientist, it is advisable to take smaller doses of this vitamin more frequently instead of taking large doses at once.
During periods of increased susceptibility to infections, it's also worth considering zinc, which supports the functioning of immune cells and the healing of mucous membranes. Zinc supplements can shorten cold symptoms if taken early enough. Vitamins A and E, which act as antioxidants and support mucous membranes, and B vitamins , which participate in enzymatic reactions and antibody production, have similar benefits.
The expert also highlighted the role of micronutrients such as selenium, iron, and magnesium, as well as probiotics, which influence the intestinal microbiota and the body's immunity . He emphasized that the effectiveness of probiotics depends on the selection of appropriate, tested strains, as well as on the proper storage of the preparations.
Prof. Ramos cautioned against overusing supplements. It's important to remember that they aren't subject to the same stringent marketing authorization requirements as medications. Therefore, whenever possible, we should choose a product registered as a drug that's also available over-the-counter (OTC). We should purchase supplements from a reliable source, such as a brick-and-mortar pharmacy.
Specialists from the Medical University of Silesia remind people that supplements are not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle based on a balanced diet, adequate sleep, physical activity, and vaccinations. Hygiene, regular ventilation of rooms, maintaining air humidity at 40-60 percent, and weather-appropriate outdoor activity are also crucial in preventing infection.
Vitamin D:
- increased levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia),
- kidney stones and kidney damage,
- heart rhythm disorders and hypertension,
- muscle weakness and bone pain.
Selenium:
- nausea, vomiting and diarrhea,
- hair loss and brittle nails,
- damage to peripheral nerves (tingling, numbness),
- kidney damage and respiratory disorders.
Vitamin A:
- increased intracranial pressure (headache, vomiting),
- liver damage and bone pain,
- visual disturbances and double images,
- hair loss and skin peeling.
Vitamin E:
- increased risk of bleeding,
- muscle weakness and fatigue,
- visual disturbances and headaches,
- increased risk of cardiovascular complications.
Iron:
- vomiting and diarrhea with blood,
- pressure drop and shock,
- liver damage and multiple organ failure,
- respiratory disorders and pulmonary edema.
Magnesium:
- diarrhea and abdominal cramps,
- low blood pressure and heart rhythm disturbances,
- respiratory depression and muscle weakness,
- cardiac arrest in severe cases.
B vitamins:
- peripheral neuropathy and sensory disturbances (especially with excess B6),
- nausea and headaches,
- skin rashes and photosensitivity,
- liver or nervous system disorders.
Vitamin C:
- diarrhea and abdominal cramps,
- risk of kidney stones,
- increased iron overload in people with hemochromatosis,
- oxidative imbalance.
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