Your immune system is dedicated to protecting you from infection. It works hard to fight off threats, and it needs the proper nutrients to do so. Here are 8 vitamins and mineral supplements that will support your natural immunity. These vitamins and minerals have antiviral properties, and will strengthen your natural defenses against viruses and bacteria. Take them regularly to maintain your immunity. You can also supplement your diet with other nutrients to strengthen your immune system. But which ones are the best?
Vitamin C
The vitamin C content in food is important for our immune system. We need vitamin C for normal connective tissue growth and repair and for the production of interferons, which facilitates the immune system’s ability to mount and sustain an immune response. Vitamin C also promotes phagocyte activity, which captures dangerous particles, neutralizes them, and digests them. Vitamin C is found primarily in white blood cells. In fact, it is essential for our immune system’s overall health.
In addition to supporting the immune system, vitamin C has many other beneficial effects on cellular functions. It is a potent antioxidant and serves as a cofactor for several gene regulatory enzymes. It also enhances neutrophil migration to sites of infection and enhances phagocytosis and oxidant generation. In addition, vitamin C is known to protect host tissues from damage by increasing neutrophil apoptosis and decreasing neutrophil necrosis.
Zinc
Besides vitamin C and D, zinc is another important nutrient for immune system activity. Taking supplements with zinc may reduce the risks of developing a viral respiratory infection. These nutrients are widely available, low-cost, and safe. Moreover, they help your body cope with the higher demand for nutrients when infected with a virus. Moreover, they reduce the progression and prognosis of COVID-19.
You can get adequate zinc from foods that are rich in animal products. Nonetheless, people who eat a diet dominated by plant foods are at a higher risk of being zinc deficient. Zinc has many benefits, including supporting the immune system and fighting bacteria and viruses. Studies have shown that people with low zinc levels are more prone to contracting infections. For this reason, zinc lozenges and syrups have become popular immune-boosting supplements.
In addition, zinc deficiency affects the activity of natural killer cells and cytolytic T cells, which help in the destruction of bacteria and viruses. Moreover, it decreases the risk of childhood pneumonia. All these benefits make zinc one of the best vitamins to support immune system
Magnesium
Research suggests that taking a supplement containing magnesium can boost your immune system. The mineral also helps promote a good night’s sleep, a key part of maintaining a healthy immune system. It boosts the activity of T cells, which are responsible for moving around the blood and strengthening the immune system. In addition to boosting your immune system, magnesium also improves your heart health and regulates blood pressure. It also helps to increase your energy levels, which is why it is important to increase your magnesium intake.
There are many studies showing the benefits of magnesium supplementation. It can reduce the level of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation. Blood tests often check CRP levels, which are high signals of inflammation and an underlying health issue. Magnesium can help mobilize white blood cells to help rid the body of harmful substances. By supporting the immune system, magnesium can help treat diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis.
Echinacea
Some studies suggest that Echinacea can help protect against COVID-19, a virus that can cause respiratory illnesses. However, other scientists warn that this research is premature because it only examined the effects of Echinacea on cell lines and particle samples and did not include people with COVID-19. Further, echinacea may interfere with some medications and supplements, and should not be used for long periods of time. The most significant risks are liver issues, decreased immune response, and interactions with medications.
The active compounds in echinacea have been shown to improve immune function, reduce pain, and improve wound healing. It has been used for centuries to treat symptoms such as itchy skin and poor wound healing. Before you begin taking echinacea, consult your integrative healthcare provider to ensure it’s safe for you. Echinacea has been used for centuries as a herbal medicine and is relatively safe for short-term use. If you’re taking an immunosuppressive medication, talk to your doctor about whether it’s safe for you to take.