Research: Supplements Support the Immune System in Chronically Ill Patients, Not a Substitute for Medical Therapy
Jakarta — Findings from the study indicate that the use of supplement products can help maintain the body’s immune system, including among patients with chronic diseases and individuals who are obese. This was stated by the principal researcher HDI Propoelix Dr. H. Harli Amir Mahmudji, Sp.PD-KEMD at a press conference in Central Jakarta on Saturday 7 March 2026.
The 30-day study involving office workers aged 25–60, some of whom were obese and diabetic, showed that using the supplement could maintain immune system balance without increasing the risk of inflammation.
“In patients with chronic conditions, the immune system remains balanced and the risk of inflammation does not increase,” said Harli.
Laboratory tests showed that using the supplement made acute-phase white blood cells more ready to respond to mild infections. Meanwhile, platelet and neutrophil profiles remained stable, and inflammatory markers did not rise.
According to Harli, the findings are important for patients with diabetes or individuals with obesity who are at risk of complications from metabolic disorders. However, he emphasised that the use of supplements is only to help maintain the immune system, not to replace standard medical treatment that patients have been receiving.
“This is a supplement, not a substitute for medical therapy,” he asserted.
Harli acknowledged that the study on the effect of supplements on immunity conducted by him is still limited. The 30-day duration and the participation limited to adult office workers are important caveats. Long-term effects and use in other groups, such as pregnant women or autoimmune patients, still require further research.
“These results provide an early picture of immune modulation in patients with metabolic disorders. The findings could form the basis for further studies to assess effectiveness and safety in a broader population,” he explained.
Researchers emphasised the need for further studies with larger participant numbers and longer durations to obtain more comprehensive results.
Healthy eating and regular exercise are key to maintaining immunity
At the same time, Harli also stressed the importance of adopting a balanced, nutritious diet and regular exercise as the main measures to boost immunity. He emphasised that supplement products play only as complementary or adjunct therapy, not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle.
“Nutritious food is individual, highly dependent on each person’s physical condition,” he said.
He explained that everyone’s nutritional needs differ according to age and physical condition. Children require protein and nutrients to support growth; adolescents and adults must adjust protein and fat intake according to metabolic needs; while older adults require nutrients to maintain muscle mass and bone health.