Adobe Stock
Although there is currently no drug or supplement that can protect you from the coronavirus, boosting your immunity can’t hurt. Aside from helping your body ward off illnesses, keeping your immune system healthy is key to protecting yourself from a variety of diseases and infections.
The immune system provides complex functions that defend your body against unwanted pathogens, toxins, viruses, and bacteria. Aside from eating a healthy diet, you can boost your immune system by taking certain vitamins and supplements.
Before you begin taking supplements, talk to your healthcare provider as some can interact with over-the-counter and prescription medications. Vitamin D is essential to your immune system. It enhances the effects of the pathogen-fighting white blood cells that promote increased immunity responses.
In addition, vitamin D has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of contracting respiratory infections. Zinc has also been proven to protect against respiratory tract infections, including the common cold. It plays a vital role in immune cell development and communication in addition to helping your body respond to inflammation.
Vitamin C is among the most popular supplements to ward off illness. The reason? It boosts your immune system and plays an important role in the functioning of various immune cells. It has also been shown to reduce the duration of upper respiratory infections, including the common cold.
A lesser-recognized supplement, black elderberry, has been used for generations to treat infections. The supplement is showing promise in early studies to prevent against bacterial pathogens. It may also reduce the duration and severity of illnesses, and symptoms caused by viral infections.
Medicinal mushrooms also have immune-boosting qualities and have been used since ancient times to prevent and treat a variety of infections and diseases. There are over 270 medicinal mushroom species with Cordyceps, lion’s mane, maitake, shitake, reishi, and turkey tail being the most common for boosting immunity.
Other immune-boosting supplements, herbs, and minerals worth mentioning can enhance your immunity responses and help ward off illness. Astragalus, selenium, garlic, Andrographis, licorice, pelargonium sidoides, curcumin, echinacea, propolis, as well as, B-complex vitamins are excellent for boosting your immunity.
Each of these supplements is undergoing further research to determine the actual effectiveness as it relates to immunity. Early studies and tests show promise and are worth further review.
Aside from supplements, maintaining a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and the proper amount of sleep all play a role in how well your body is able to fight off and recover from illnesses. Check out our other immune-boosting tips including food and drinks that promote immunity naturally.
