Can supplements increase your immunity?

Let us make it clear at the very outset that all supplements must be taken only under the guidance of a doctor.

The immune system is something that needs to be protected by whatever possible means. It is the shield that protects the body from potentially harmful pathogens like deadly viruses, bacteria and toxins.

The immune system needs constant reinforcing to stay healthy and in a prime condition. It is this system of defense that also fights to bring the body back to good health even if it has been attacked by pathogens.

Healthy lifestyle choices are more than enough to keep one’s immune system going. There’s nothing better for your immunity other than healthy food, exercise, ample sleep and a positive outlook on life.

However, recent studies have also shown that additional supplements with vitamins, minerals and herbs can considerably improve immunity. Let’s take a look at what these supplements are.

Read More About : Building Your Immunity During A Pandemic

3 Essential Supplements

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential to strengthen the WBC’s that are a vital part of the immune system. Deficiency in Vitamin D can cause upper respiratory tract infections like influenza and asthma.

Vitamin D supplements are also important to improve the response of antiviral treatments for Hepatitis C and HIV.

Vitamin C

The immune system is entirely dependent on Vitamin C . Vitamin C supplements are vital to reduce oxidative stress that can induce chronic diseases. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant which prevents the accumulation of free radicals that cause oxidative stress. Regular intake of Vitamin C supplements are also known to effectively reduce common colds and improve infections like sepsis and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome or ARDS.

Zinc

Zinc is an essential nutrient for immune cell development and inflammatory response. Deficiency of Zinc increases the risk of infectious diseases like pneumonia. While supplementary zinc can reduce the exposure to common colds, long-term intake can interfere with the absorption of copper in the body.

Incredible Herbal Supplements

A plethora of herbal supplements are also gaining popularity as effective foods that fight viral infections.

1.Elderberry

The black elderberry or Sambucus Nigra is well known for its potent antibacterial and antiviral properties. Elderberry enhances the immune system’s response to upper respiratory tract infections and strains of the flu virus. Available in liquid or capsule form, elderberries are also known to reduce the severity of common colds.

2 . Mushrooms with medicinal properties

There are over 250 species of mushrooms that have been used for their medicinal values for centuries. Shiitake, turkey tail, cordyceps, maitake, lion’s mane, etc are highly renowned for their immunity building properties. Medicinal mushrooms are available in the form of teas, tinctures and other supplements.

3. Garlic

Garlic supplements are widely used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. Crushed garlic produces Allicin, which has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Garlic is also taken as a supplement to strengthen white blood cells.

4. Licorice

The commonly available licorice is said to have Glycyrrhizin, a substance that has antiviral properties. Test tube studies have revealed that Glycyrrhizin exhibits anti-viral properties against SARS CoV or Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome related Coronavirus.

5. B Complex Vitamins

B Complex Vitamins are the building blocks of a healthy body. These vitamins help to prevent infections and are essential for the healthy growth of immune cells. B Complex Vitamins include Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, Pantothenic Acid, Pyridoxine, Biotin, Folate, and Cobalamin. B Complex supplements usually pack all 8 vitamins into one dose.

Supplements are essential to keep the body’s immune system in prime condition. But it must always be kept in mind that supplements should not be taken without the guidance of a certified doctor. They can never replace a healthy lifestyle and healthy, nutritious food.