Certain vitamins, supplements and herbs are known to boost your immune system and protect your body from viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens. Along with proper nutrition and exercise, you can support your immune’s defenses by adding these supplements and herbs to your diet.
Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional and the information on this website is for informational purposes only. As always, check with your healthcare provider before starting any medical treatment. This blog has not been evaluated by the FDA. Any products or methods mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or ailment. Full Disclosure and Disclaimer here.
Vitamin C
This essential vitamin and powerful antioxidant plays an important role in cellular function. Vitamin C is needed to support immune function, enhance iron absorption, protect against environmental oxidative stress, and aids in memory support, skin health, and bone structure.
Our go-to is this Vitamin C supplement by Seeking Health. It’s perfect for mixing in smoothies too!
Vitamin D3/K2
Vitamin D is essential to bone and cardiovascular health. It helps fights infections and bacteria, assists with calcium absorption, and may prevent heart disease, osteoporosis, and a host of chronic illnesses. It is important to take Vitamin D3 and K2 together for maximum absorption.
My recommendation.
n-acetylcysteine (NAC)
NAC or n-acetylcysteine is a supplement composed of an essential amino-acid and powerful antioxidant that supports your immune system, respiratory health, kidney and liver function, reproductive system, brain health and is used in the treatment of various diseases. My recommendation.
Honey
This naturally sweet substance, boasts both antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Honey contains important antioxidants and is used for medicinal purposes as well as wound healing. Different types of honey contribute to their effectiveness. This Manuka honey, is high-quality, full of antioxidants and great for antibacterial needs.
Zinc
A nutrient that aids in digestion, hormone production, nerve function, metabolism and many other processes. While zinc is essential to a healthy, strong immune system, the nutrient is also needed to heal wounds, fight infection, and support normal cell growth. Additionally, numerous studies show, the nutrient may protect against respiratory infections. Did you know…approximately 30% of older adults are considered deficient in the nutrient?
Magnesium
Magnesium is an crucial mineral that strengthens bones, protects your heart, fights inflammation, helps heal wounds and assists your body in the fight against viruses. It can also prevent migraines, lower your chance of getting diabetes, and plays a role in managing oxidative stress, nerve and muscle function, blood pressure, and immune health. We take this supplement by Natural Vitality Calm.
Elderberry
High in antioxidants and nutrients, elderberry not only increase immune system function, but has respiratory benefits as well. Studies show, it may reduce cold and flu symptoms and inhibit the growth of bacteria, in addition to numerous health benefits. This natural supplement, especially when added to your vitamin regimen, is a great addition to your prevention routine.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar which consists of strands of proteins, enzymes, and friendly bacteria that give the product a murky appearance which in turn can help kill harmful bacteria, lower blood sugar, boost heart health, promote weight loss, and provide skin care benefits.
Add fresh spices & herbs to your diet!
- Cinnamon | loaded with antioxidants, fights inflammation, regulates blood sugar, heals damaged tissue, and may protect against cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
- Ginger | a powerful antioxidant that rids the body of toxins with anti-oxidative properties, improves circulation, cleanses the colon, prevents nausea, fights bacteria, infection, and inflammation.
- Garlic | anti-bacterial/anti-fungal properties (although studies show this may not be as effective when heated), fights infection, increases antioxidant enzymes, may prevent heavy metal toxicity.
- Turmeric | contains Curcumin which is a potent anti-inflammatory, improves skin and digestive issues, heals your gut, boosts brain function, inhibits fungal growth, suppresses tumor cell growth.
Other supplements and vitamins you may want to add to your immune boosting supplement list are…
Selenium and Vitamin A
Stay healthy and happy!
Sources:
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/how-to-boost-your-immune-system
- https://www.webmd.com/balance/ss/slideshow-health-benefits-nature
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29099763
- https://health.clevelandclinic.org/elderberry-a-natural-way-to-boost-immunity-during-cold-and-flu-season/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5613455/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5241507/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3609166/
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/6-proven-health-benefits-of-apple- cider-vinegar#section1
- https://www.webmd.com/diet/ss/slideshow-diet-magnesium
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19710611/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5748737/