Herbs & Supplements

Sick and Tired?! These Are The Best Immune Boosting Supplements!

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Picture a reality where the flu is only a chapter in history books, and being social doesn’t bring along the anxiety of getting sick. Sounds unreal, doesn’t it? But this can indeed move closer to fact with the right support – fortifying your immune system. We’re not just talking about improving hygiene practices, we’re pointing towards immune-boosting supplements that can fortify your body’s inherent protective system. 

If you’re a strenuous crusader of wellness and eager to understand how to strengthen your immune system via supplements, you’re in the right space. Our aim here is to provide a comprehensive walkthrough into the realm of the best immune system boosters. Still, let’s begin with understanding its essence. 

“Immune-boosting supplements are additional nutrients that assist in enhancing your immune system’s efficacy, empowering it to fend off germs, bacteria, and infections more robustly.”

We may not promise miraculous potions, but we can definitely bring to you the might of science-backed solutions. These solutions have proven to assist your body in combating diseases with more vigour. So, are you geared up to plunge in and equip your immune system with the best immune system booster available? Stay with us!

Best Immune boosting vitamins

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Best Immune Boosting Supplements

Ladies and gentlemen, allow us to introduce you to the mighty power of Vitamin C. This familiar nutrient is not to be underestimated. According to research, Vitamin C plays an indispensable role in powering up our immune systems due to its integral part in bolstering the production of our immune warriors – T cells. 

What’s more, Vitamin C is a clever nutrient, knowing exactly where to go within our bodies. It has been found to distribute rapidly in high concentrations into immune cells, helping them in their fight against invading pathogens. Vitamin C also aids in the proliferation of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that is essential in our immune response. Moreover, during times of infection, our bodies use up our Vitamin C stocks quite swiftly, further showcasing its key role in immune system function. 

The European Food Safety Authority has also recognized the role of Vitamin C in maintaining a normal immune system in both children under three years of age and adults. Now that’s an endorsement! 

So, how can you ensure you’re getting enough of this valuable nutrient? Vitamin C supplements are widely available and come in various forms suitable for everyone’s liking, including tablets, capsules, and drink mix packets. Regular intake of vitamin C supplements was found to shorten the average duration of illnesses by 8% in adults and a significant 14% in children. It also helps in reducing the severity of colds. No more worrying about those winter sniffles! 

Vitamin C Better You Oral Spray
Vitamin C Better You Oral Spray

A word of caution though: The Department of Health and Social Care in the UK advises getting all the vitamin C one needs through a balanced diet and advises caution with Vitamin C supplements to avoid excessive intake. More doesn’t always mean better! 

Interestingly, Vitamin C is also an adept antioxidant. It helps prevent free radicals from causing damage within our bodies, which is a mechanism that could potentially help prevent cancer. However, more research is needed on this front. 

When choosing a Vitamin C supplement, you’re likely to find several forms in the market. The most commonly used compounds are ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbate, and calcium ascorbate. It’s always wise to check with a healthcare professional which form might be best for you, personally. 

So, as you’ve seen, Vitamin C really is a valuable ally in shielding our bodies and enhancing our immune systems. Now, how about that glass of orange juice?

Which are the top rated immune boosting supplements on Amazon?

If you’re looking for a first-rate immune reinforcing supplement, there’s a whole host of options available on Amazon. However, the most consistently top-rated, according to users and experts alike, is Vitamin C. It has a vital role in boosting the immune system, contributing immensely to the normal functioning of the immune system. This is validated by the European Food Safety Authority and a wealth of research material. 

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Vitamin C comes in various forms on Amazon, including tablets, capsules, and drink mix packets, catering to individual requirements and tastes. The most commonly used Vitamin C supplements are ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbate, and calcium ascorbate. Beyond boosting your immunity, these supplements may provide additional health benefits, such as reducing the duration and severity of colds.  

While exploring Vitamin C supplements, noteworthy is the surge in Vitamin C-related claims during the COVID-19 pandemic. Particularly between March and July 2020, the US FDA had to issue more warning letters related to C Vitamin than any other ingredient. Despite the promotional campaigns by some for mega-dosing with ascorbic acid, responsible intake remains key. 

Despite its immense benefits, Vitamin C should be used wisely. Oversupplementation carries risks, including digestive issues and kidney stones. Hence, moderation and a balanced approach are crucial to leverage the immune-boosting power of this potent supplement. 

In conclusion, while Amazon offers a wide variety of immune boosting supplements, Vitamin C reigns supreme in terms of both user ratings and scientific endorsements.

Top 10 Immune Boosting Supplements

1. Vitamin C 

Vitamin C Better You Daily Oral Spray
Vitamin C Better You Daily Oral Spray

Strengthening your immune system with supplements is a matter of incorporating the right ones into your daily routine. One such powerful supplement is Vitamin C. Regular consumption of Vitamin C supplements can not only reduce the average duration of illnesses but also minimize their severity, given its role in promoting natural killer cell activity and lymphocyte proliferation. Most notably, it strengthens the T cells which form the backbone of your immune system. 

The European Food Safety Authority categorically recognizes the link between the dietary intake of Vitamin C and the maintenance of a normal immune system in adults and young children under three years of age. Thus, a regular intake of Vitamin C supplements may serve to keep your immune system in optimal condition. However, it’s worth noting that the Department of Health and Social Care advocates for a balanced diet as the best method to meet your daily Vitamin C requirements. 

Vitamin C plays a critical role in aiding the immune system. It helps increase the activity of natural killer cells and lymphocyte proliferation, decreasing in concentration during infection, underlining its crucial use in our body’s defense mechanism. 

2. Vitamin D 

Vitamin D, among its numerous health benefits, is known for its wonderful efficacy on the immune system. It not only boosts our immune response but also modulates it, aiding in keeping various autoimmune disorders at bay. 

3. Zinc 

With its ability to mobilize cells that fight infections, Zinc proves to be an important factor in strengthening our immune system. It helps our body to respond swiftly to infections and accelerate the healing process. 

4. Echinacea 

This powerful herb, Echinacea, is known for its potential to boost the immune system. Commonly used to prevent and treat colds, its use results in an increased number of white blood cells, thus enhancing our immunity. 

best immune boosting supplements
Echinachea

5. Elderberry 

Elderberry, packed with antioxidants, helps tackle inflammation, lessen stress, and protect the heart. Its most profound benefit, however, is support for the immune system to fight off cold and flu symptoms. 

6. Selenium 

Acting as a powerful antioxidant, Selenium contributes to maintaining healthy immune system operations. It prevents cell damage and promotes a healthy heart, thus maintaining overall well-being. 

7. Probiotics 

Probiotics are famous for promoting gut health, but their benefits extend well beyond. They improve the balance and function of the immune system by enhancing the body’s natural defense mechanisms. 

8. Omegas (Omega 3 & 6) 

Omega Fatty Acids (3 & 6) known for their heart-health benefits, also contribute to cellular function and immunity. They play an important role in reducing inflammation and boosting immune response in the body. 

9. Astragalus 

Renowned in traditional Chinese medicine, Astragalus enhances the immune system by stimulating cells and chemicals in the immune system, empowering the body to potentially fight diseases more effectively. 

10. Garlic 

Garlic often acclaimed for its role in heart health and as an incredible antifungal, also boosts your immune system. It stimulates certain cell types enhancing the immune system function, making it a great natural immune booster.

To conclude, strengthening your immune system with supplements, in particular Vitamin C, involves a consistent and balanced approach. It’s not about high doses but rather about regular, consistent intake. Remember, supplements should complement, not replace, a well-balanced diet to help fortify your immune system over the long term.

Best Immune Boosting Supplements
Garlic as an immune booster!

How can I boost my immune system quickly?

A brilliant and scientifically backed way to quickly boost your immune system is to increase your intake of Vitamin C. Notably, Vitamin C plays a critical role in fortifying your immune system since it promotes the activities of killer cells and proliferation of lymphocytes. These effects pinpoint towards a significant role in enhancing the immune system’s function. 

Therefore, you might want to consider adding a Vitamin C supplement to your daily routine. Research from the European Food Safety Authority suggests that dietary intake of Vitamin C contributes to the functioning of a normal immune system in both adults and children under three years of age. 

For individuals who want a speedy increase in their immune protection, the evidence suggests that there’s a case to be made for Vitamin C’s effectiveness. Regular intake of this supplement has been shown to not only reduce the average duration of illnesses like the common cold by 8% in adults and 14% in children, but it also appears to reduce the severity of these ailments.

Even with the benefits of Vitamin C supplementation, a balanced diet should be your primary source of this essential nutrient. Foods rich in Vitamin C include citrus fruits (like oranges and their juice), peppers, strawberries, blackcurrants, broccoli, brussels sprouts, and potatoes. These foods can add variety and flavor to your meals while boosting your immune system. 

If you’re a smoker, or regularly exposed to secondhand smoke, it’s important to increase your Vitamin C intake by an additional 35 mg per day. This is because smoking or exposure to smoke can deplete your Vitamin C levels faster, leaving your immune system at risk. 

In conclusion, maintaining a consistent, balanced diet rich in Vitamin C and potentially supplementing it, especially for those exposed to smoke, can help you quickly boost your immune system.

Are there any immune boosting supplements for children?

Indeed, there are several immune-boosting supplements suitable for children. However, it’s crucial to remember that children’s nutritional needs are best met by a balanced diet consisting of a wide range of foods. But, in some cases, a supplement may be recommended by a healthcare provider. 

One such supplement is Vitamin C. As noted by the European Food Safety Authority, there’s a cause-and-effect relationship between dietary intake of vitamin C and a functioning immune system in children under three years. An adequate intake of Vitamin C for children helps in making T cells strong and building up the immune system. It’s seen to reduce the severity of illnesses, and is depleted quickly during infections, further suggesting its important role in immune system function. 

Vitamin C supplements for children are readily available in various kid-friendly forms such as chewable tablets and gummy vitamins. However, high doses of vitamin C can cause digestive discomfort in some children, so it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage. 

It’s paramount to point out that while Vitamin C assists in strengthening a child’s immune system, it’s not a cure-all. It doesn’t directly prevent infections like COVID-19, but it does strengthen the body’s ability to fight off and recover from infections. Therefore, aside from maintaining a balanced diet and adequate vitamin C intake, it’s important to ensure children get enough sleep, regular exercise, and observe good hygiene practices to promote a healthy immune system.

If you’re considering supplementing your child’s intake of Vitamin C, here are some examples of immune-boosting supplements available online: 

  • Kids’ Vitamin C by Cheong Kwan Jang is enriched with the robust flavor of Korean red ginseng extract. It’s a natural, chewable supplement that keeps your child’s immunity strong.
  • Ease your little one’s integration of these immune-enhancing nutrients into their lifestyle with kid-friendly Nature Made Kids First Vitamin C Gummies. This product incorporates natural fruit flavors to ensure a delightful taste experience.
  • ChildLife Essentials Liquid Vitamin C is another option for those in search of an easy-to-absorb formula. The product is designed to provide potent antioxidants and immune system support for children of all ages.
  • For a product that has incorporated the benefits of several vital ingredients, consider the Renzo’s Vitamin C Veggie Gummies for Kids. This allergen-free, vegan-friendly supplement combines vitamin C with Acerola cherries for an extra immunity and antioxidant boost.

Remember, before starting any new supplement regimen, it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider. 

Are there any immune boosting supplements for seniors?

Indeed, there are! It’s absolutely crucial for seniors to maintain a strong immune system. Together with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, immune-boosting supplements can play a significant role in enhancing seniors’ immunity. Let’s now explore some of the top supplements that may be beneficial for the elderly.

Vitamin C is rightfully placed at the top of the list. As per the European Food Safety Authority, there’s a solid cause-effect connection between Vitamin C consumption and the functioning of a well-rounded immune system in adults, including seniors. Regular Vitamin C intake has been proven to not only decrease the average duration of illnesses but also considerably lessen their severity. This vitamin can be found in various forms like tablets, capsules, drink mix packets, making it highly convenient to incorporate into a daily routine. However, remember to consult with a healthcare providerbefore starting a new supplement regimen.  

Vitamin C isn’t just about colds and flu. It’s also been known to prevent free radicals from causing damage, a process which may potentially reduce cancer risk. Ongoing research is looking at whether it may also have a role in the battle against COVID-19. Nonetheless, it’s important to bear in mind that Vitamin C does not prevent COVID-19.  

So, whether it’s boosting your immune system, potentially warding off free radical damage, or recovering from an illness, Vitamin C could be a beneficial supplement for seniors. But remember, supplements can’t replace a balanced diet, they’re intended to complement a healthy lifestyle. Build a regimen that works best for you and your health needs, ideally under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Can I take immune boosting supplements with other medications?

Yes, you can take immune boosting supplements like Vitamin C with other medications, but it’s always safe and recommended to consult your healthcare provider before doing so. A healthcare provider’s guidance will ensure that there are no unexpected interactions between the two, as some medications can affect the way your body absorbs, uses, or gets rid of certain nutrients. 

Do bear in mind that dietary supplements, including Vitamin C, are not intended to treat, cure, or prevent any disease, including COVID-19. While regular intake of Vitamin C can help bolster our immune system and potentially reduce the severity and duration of illnesses like colds, its effects are supportive rather than curative. 

Lastly, Vitamin C is available in different forms, such as tablets, capsules, and drink mix packets. Choosing your preferred form may be influenced by ease of ingestion, budget, or simply your lifestyle and daily routine. Once again, do consult with a healthcare provider to determine the right amount and form of Vitamin C that suits your individual needs and aligns with your overall health plan.

Can I take immune boosting supplements while pregnant?

Embracing the journey of being pregnant is an exciting experience in a woman’s life and maintaining your health during this period becomes a top priority. The topic of immune boosting supplements comes into focus due to the physiological changes that occur during pregnancy. Your body not only supports your own health, but also nurtures the developing fetus, making your immune system more defenseless than usual. 

While Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for supporting a robust immune function, the need for it can be accentuated during pregnancy. According to scientific reports, pregnant or breastfeeding women may require higher amounts of vitamin C.

It’s reassuring to know that Vitamin C plays a critical role by making the T cells, a type of white blood cells, stronger and thus heightening the body’s immune responses. This remarkable function of vitamin C is highly significant in curbing the duration of illnesses, especially the common cold, in both adults and children. Through consistent supplementation, the severity and average duration of illnesses are proven to decrease by 8% in adults and 14% in children. 

Boosting immunity in pregnancy
Boosting Immunity in pregnancy

However, as the Department of Health and Social Care recommends, we should strive to receive the needed vitamin C through a balanced diet. This is because routine consumption of high-dose vitamin C supplements can cause potential harm. A healthy lifestyle balanced with the necessary nutrient intake will undoubtedly aid in keeping both you and the developing fetus healthy and strong.  

Remember, dietary supplements like Vitamin C are available in various forms such as tablets, capsules, and drink mix packets, so you have the opportunity to choose what suits you best. However, it’s essential to converse with your healthcare provider so as to understand the appropriate dosage of vitamin C catering to your individual needs during this crucial period.  

Important to note, is that Vitamin C is not a preventive measure against COVID-19. Although researchers are on their way to explore potential benefits of IV-administered Vitamin C, it’s not a proven preventive solution to COVID-19.  

During pregnancy, the immune system function does require aid from optimal nutrient supply. Vitamin C does this effectively by distributing readily into immune cells, promoting activities of natural killer cells, and promoting lymphocyte proliferation. These beneficial effects certainly highlight the role that Vitamin C has in optimizing the immune system function. Nonetheless, one essential point to be aware of is the quick depletion of Vitamin C during infections. This emphasizes the need for regular replenishment, even more so during pregnancy.  

This, however, doesn’t mean that you can replace a balanced diet with immune supplements. These should supplement your diet, not substitute a balanced and healthy diet. Thus, always ensure that your health regime during pregnancy includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, necessary supplements, and mental wellbeing. 

Certainly, there are several immune-boosting supplements that are perfectly suitable for people leading a completely plant-based lifestyle. Our bodies require a diverse range of nutrients to maintain a resilient immune system, and these nutrients can potentially be provided in the form of supplements if our regular diet falls short. 

One such important compound is Vitamin C. Vitamin C is readily available in many plant-based foods like citrus fruits, peppers, strawberries, blackcurrants, broccoli, brussel sprouts, and potatoes. However, for those vegans who might not be consuming enough Vitamin C through their diet, supplements can ensure that they get an adequate amount. 

However, always remember that not all supplements are created equal. Certain vitamin C supplements contain additional ingredients or “fillers” that might not fit with a vegan lifestyle. To ensure you’re not at odds with your dietary practices, always lookout for vegan labeling on the packaging or buy from a trusted vegan supplement brand

Vitamin C helps to promote natural killer cell activities and lymphocyte proliferation. During times of infections or bodily stress, the stores of Vitamin C in our immune cells are depleted quickly, underscoring its role in immune system function. Additionally, Vitamin C also helps to combat against the detrimental effects of free radicals, potentially playing a role in cancer prevention. 

While supplements can bolster your overall nutrition, the Department of Health and Social Care advises acquiring your required dose of Vitamin C through a balanced diet. So, as you explore options for immune boosting supplements, do remember to prioritize a varied, nutrient-rich vegan diet as well. 

Lastly, it’s worth mentioning that it’s always wise to speak to a healthcare provider before introducing any supplement into your regimen, regardless of whether you’re vegan or not. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific needs and circumstances, accounting for any existing health conditions and medications you might be currently taking.

Are there any side effects of taking immune boosting supplements?

Yes, while immune supplements like Vitamin C are potentially beneficial, they could also have some side effects. If taken in large doses, Vitamin C may cause some digestive discomfort, headaches, insomnia, and skin flushing. This could be a disruptive experience, considering these symptoms may mirror some of those you’re aiming to prevent with a boosted immune system. 

However, it’s important to remember that these side effects are linked to high doses of Vitamin C. In other words, they are unlikely to occur if the supplement is taken in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. Everyone’s tolerance to supplements varies and it may be a good idea to start on a lower dose and see how your body responds before deciding to increase your intake. 

The Department of Health and Social Care advises getting Vitamin C through a balanced diet but advises caution with supplements to avoid these potential side effects. So, if you’re thinking about upping your intake of immune boosting supplements like Vitamin C, it may be wise to talk to your physician or a dietitian first. 

Moreover, it’s worth mentioning that for people with certain preexisting conditions, Vitamin C supplementation could complicate their health. For example, people with kidney disorders should avoid high doses of Vitamin C due to a heightened risk of developing kidney stones. Again, before starting or increasing an intake of Vitamin C or any other supplement, you should discuss your options with a healthcare professional. 

In conclusion, while immune boosting supplements can have benefits, they should be taken responsibly and with consideration for your overall health. Remember that a supplement is meant to complement a balanced diet, not substitute it. High-quality sleep, regular exercise, and a rainbow of fruits and vegetables in your diet are natural ways to help your immune system stay strong and responsive.

Best Immune Boosting Supplements
Top Tips on Boosting Your Immunity!

What is the difference between immune boosting supplements and vitamins?

While both vitamins and immune-boosting supplements have their roles in enhancing your immune system, they are not exactly the same thing. Here’s why. 

Vitamins are organic compounds that our bodies need in small amounts to function properly – essentially, they keep the machine that is our body ticking over. They’re crucial for various bodily functions like energy production, maintaining healthy skin, eyes, and bones, and more importantly, aiding the immune system. For example, it has been repeatedly proven that Vitamin C leapfrogs our immunity by strengthening T cells. This essential vitamin can help your body ward off or fight illness and produce collagen for healthy skin and wound healing. 

On the flip side, immune-boosting supplements often contain vitamins but may also include minerals, herbs, and other bioactive compounds specifically designed to improve immune function. These supplements aim to enhance the immune response within your body – they may lower your risk of catching colds, reduce their duration, or even lessen the severity of the symptoms. Supplements like echinacea, zinc, and elderberry are common and backed by some degree of scientific evidence, while the effectiveness of others varies. 

Despite their benefits, remember that neither can replace a balanced diet. Both vitamins and supplements should complement your meal plan, not replace real, nutrient-dense foods. So go ahead, enjoy your colorful fruits and veggies while keeping a healthy supplement regimen! 

Lastly, it’s always a wise decision to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement strategy. They can help you determine the best course of action based on your specific health needs.

Can I replace a healthy diet with immune boosting supplements?

No, you should not count on immune boosting supplements to replace a balanced diet. Supplements are meant to supplement or complement a healthy lifestyle, not replace it. Foods and their natural nutrients offer a whole host of benefits that aren’t found in supplement form. They come with dietary fibre, various micronutrients, and a complex network of nutrients working together that are often lost when isolated into a supplement. They also play a crucial role in providing the body with the energy it needs to function. 

Furthermore, it’s worth noting that the Department of Health and Social Care advises to obtain all the required vitamin C through a balanced diet, and to be cautious with vitamin C supplements to avoid any potential harm. As an example, while vitamin C supplements can aid in boosting the immune system, they can quickly deplete during infections. Therefore, relying solely on supplements may not be able to meet the increased demand efficiently.

So while it might be tempting to simply pop a pill and forget about being mindful of what you eat, our bodies weren’t designed to live this way. Nutritional needs should be met primarily through eating a wide variety of foods as part of a balanced diet. Think of supplements as a backup, not your main defense. They can fill in the gaps where your diet may fall short, but they are not a shortcut to good health.

Best Immune Boosting Supplements
Best Immune Boosting Supplements

Do immune boosting supplements help improve skin health?

Absolutely, immune boosting supplements, particularly Vitamin C, play a pivotal role in maintaining and enhancing skin health. This vital nutrient isn’t merely a powerful antioxidant; it’s also involved in the production of collagen, a protein that lends your skin its firmness, suppleness, and elasticity. According to many health studies, consistent dietary intake of Vitamin C can enhance skin moisture, texture, and overall appearance. Therefore, possessing a daily routine of immune boosting supplements like Vitamin C can certainly give you a radiant, youthful glow. 

Moreover, the presence of Vitamin C in immune boosting supplements helps to avert skin damage caused by free radicals. These unstable molecules are produced by exposure to certain environmental elements like pollution, cigarette smoke, and the sun’s harsh rays. While more research is still needed, it’s believed that Vitamin C could potentially contribute to preventing the onset of skin cancer

Available in numerous forms, such as tablets, capsules, and drink mix packets, dietary supplements of Vitamin C can be incorporated into your regimen with ease. However, while Vitamin C and other immune boosting supplements are beneficial, they should be used as suppplements, not replacements for a balanced diet and adequate hydration, which are fundamental for boosting skin health and general wellbeing. 

It’s important to note that while intake of Vitamin C supplements is generally considered safe, excessive consumption can lead to side effects like stomach cramps and diarrhoea. Hence, it is crucial to follow the prescribed guidelines or consult a healthcare provider first.

Best Immune Boosting Supplements

When it comes to boosting your immune system, enhancing your body’s defenses, and maintaining optimal health, the value of immune-boosting supplements cannot be overstated. With a variety of supplements available, finding the right one for you is essential. From Vitamin C, known for its impressive capabilities in making T cells robust and bolstering the immune system, to Zinc, Probiotics, Echinacea, and Garlic among others, these supplements are geared towards priming your immune system for optimal functionality. 

However, it’s crucial to note that supplements should not replace a balanced diet but rather, they should complement it. As per the guidance of The Department of Health and Social Care, obtaining all the needed nutrients, such as Vitamin C, is best achieved through a balanced diet. Be cautious when using these supplements to ensure you’re not doing more harm than good. 

Furthermore, while adults, children, the elderly, and even pregnant individuals can benefit from supplements, different recommendations may apply due to varying nutritional needs. For instance, there are specific immune-boosting supplements suggested for children under three years and also, for vegans. Always consult with a health professional before incorporating these supplements into your routine, especially if you’re taking other medications, to circumvent potential interactions. 

In a nutshell, immune-boosting supplements offer a simplified and effective means of fortifying your immune system, potentially preventing illnesses and enhancing overall health. But remember, they are not a stand-alone solution. They must be part of a holistic health strategy that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and other healthy lifestyle choices.

Author

Fortuna is a serial entrepreneur and blogger. She launched, grew and sold her first startup and is now loving writing and working on her next project!

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