Immune Supportive Supplements
Many patients have asked about immune boosting supplements. Yes, there are things you can take to support and enhance your immune system, especially during this critical time. In this article, we will share some of our favorite vitamins, nutrients, and herbal products to help you optimize your immune health.
That said, do not ignore the bedrock foundations of health which include a nutrient-rich diet, adequate sleep, drinking clean water, moving your body daily, getting exposure to sunshine, maintaining positive relationships, etc. We will be sharing more information on these topics in the coming weeks, including superfoods, home remedies for colds and flus, and must-do self- care routines to keep you grounded and emotionally balanced. So keep reading!
What Can I Take For Illness Prevention?
Nutrients and Herbs to Boost Immunity
Liposomal Vitamin C by Quicksilver Scientific
Vitamin C is a potent, water-soluble antioxidant that is critical to immune function. Vitamin C supports tissue repair and prevents damage from free radicals which is a contributing factor to illness. Vitamin C directly supports the types of immune cells that increase during a viral infection. The liposomal form allows for more immediate absorption.
Viracon by Vital Nutrients
Viracon is a powerful blend of immune supporting herbal extracts including elderberry, astragalus, berberine, licorice, propolis, zinc, and others. Astragalus has direct effects on strengthening non-specific and specific immunity. It is also an adaptogenic herb, which means that it helps the body adapt to stress. Elderberry has been studied to show reduction in duration of influenza symptoms by 3-4 days in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study.
Immunoberry Liquid by Designs for Health
Immunoberry Liquid is a favorite immune support supplement for kids and adults.
It is a blend of elderberry, astragalus, mushrooms, wild cherry bark and others. Mushrooms contain beta-glucans, which have been shown to support T-cells in the immune system and decrease inflammation. People love it because it tastes great!
Zinc and Trace Minerals
Zinc is a mineral that is directly used by white blood cells to support antiviral activity. Our trace mineral product also includes selenium. Selenium helps increase the body’s natural production of glutathione, which is one of the major antioxidants in the body.
Probiotics
A major portion of our immune system resides in the gut! Probiotics ensure that you have a healthy balance of good bacteria to support immunity through the digestive system. Two specific strains have been shown in research to support reduction in severity of symptoms and length of illness in cold/flu: Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria. Specific products we recommend include Klaire Labs Ther-biotic, Visbiome, HMF Intensive and HMF Replete.
Vitamin D
Low vitamin D levels have been associated with increased autoimmunity and increased susceptibility to infection. This time of year, the best way to get enough vitamin D is through supplementation because it is hard to eat enough through food and sun exposure is inconsistent.
N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)
NAC is an amino acid compound that acts as a “mucolytic” or mucus dissolving agent. It also provides antioxidant and detoxification support by helping your body increase production of glutathione, the strongest antioxidant for the lungs. If you are susceptible to respiratory infections, have asthma, pulmonary disease, or any history of toxic exposure (i.e. breathing chemicals or mold exposure) NAC can be helpful for preventing illness in the lungs.
What Can I Take If I Start To Feel Sick?
Nutrients and Herbs to Help Fight Infection
Super Bio Vegetarian by Priority One
Super Biovegetarian is a strong blend of antimicrobial herbs, immune-modulating mushrooms, vitamins and nutrients. It includes vitamin A, vitamin C, zinc, echinacea, myrrh, garlic, Oregon grape, shiitake and maitake mushrooms. Super Biovegetarian can be used for prevention or to help fight active bacterial, fungal, and viral infections.
Liposomal Glutathione
Glutathione is the most abundant antioxidant in our body and is the major antioxidant for the lungs. During respiratory illness, glutathione levels decrease. Increasing glutathione levels can help improve lung function and fight respiratory illness.
Biocidin Throat Spray
Biocidin throat spray is a broad spectrum herbal product supporting an anti-microbial effect on the throat. This can be useful for sore throats as well as preventing infection from reaching the lungs.
Essential Oils like Eucalyptus, Cajput, Thyme or Oregano
Steam inhalations with a few drops of these essential oils can help open nasal/sinus passages and clear congestion in the lungs. Boil some water and add a few drops of these oils to the water. Place a towel over your head and breathe in the oil-infused steam for 10 minutes daily.
Please note: If you get sick, please contact your doctor first so we can better address your specific health needs. Treatment recommendations will differ depending on the individual and symptom picture.
Short Telemedicine appointments for acute illness are available!
