Top 10 Best Supplements to Boost Your Immune System

We are all in need of extra immune protection from germs during this cold and flu season, especially with the recently declared pandemic of COVID-19 (Coronavirus). Along with getting enough sleep, being diligent in washing your hands with soap and water, and having a nutrient-dense diet, supplements can help boost your immune system. There are cases where your body may be deficient of a certain vitamin or mineral, so be sure to check in with your doctor to see what your body may need. We found the top 10 supplements that you can add to your diet to give your immune system a much-needed boost.

• Zinc: People who suffer from zinc deficiency have a major disfunction with their immune systems. Zinc is an important mineral that aids in the reduction of inflammation in the body, mediating innate immunity, and is an effective antioxidant. It is also a major factor in enzyme function, protein synthesis, and wound healing.

• Probiotics: About 70% of the immune system resides in the gut. Probiotics are natural friendly bacteria found in the intestinal tract and in fermented foods. They aid in the protection of the body from disease-causing microbes. They are also essential in keeping the lining of the gut healthy and reducing the risk of inflammation.

• Astragalus: Used in traditional Chinese medicine, astragalus is an herb that keeps the immune system healthy. Astragalus controls the T-helper cells 1 and 2 which regulate the bacteria in the immune system. It is also a great antioxidant that prevents free-radical damage.

• Ginseng: As one of the most well-known herbs, ginseng has earned its name as the “immune modulator.” Ginseng is able to maintain immune homeostasis and enhances the body’s ability to resist illness and microbial attacks on the immune system. It has also been shown to shorten the duration of colds.

• Vitamin C: Vitamin C is found in a variety of foods but some people still find themselves to be deficient. When deficient in vitamin C the immune system slows down and doesn’t respond quickly to invading pathogens. It is a necessary element in providing the body with optimal antibody production and function.

• Omega-3: Omega-3 fatty acids boost the immune system by enhancing immune cell functionality. They enhance the activity of the white blood cells known as “B Cells” which secrete antibodies, bind to antigens, and initiate the antibody response to fight off infection and disease. They also aid in the reduction of inflammation within the body.

• Vitamin B6: Found naturally in chicken, salmon, and tuna, vitamin B6 is essential in the body’s support of biochemical reactions in the immune system. A deficiency in vitamin B6 can lead to negative consequences on both the humoral and cell-mediated immune responses, increasing the risk of disease.

• Chlorella: Chlorella is a nutrient-dense algae that is known for its ability to rid the body of toxins. Chlorella aids in the production of antibodies that help fight foreign bacteria and invaders that enter the body. It boosts your immune system and keeps you healthy by fighting off infection.

• Magnesium: Magnesium plays an important role in both the nonspecific and specific immune responses within the body. It also helps to strengthen muscles and bones while supporting cardiac and brain functions. Magnesium helps keep the immune system in homeostasis.

• Garlic: Garlic helps to strengthen a variety of immune cells, such as the compound allicin, which helps the immune system fight off germs and bacteria. Garlic has also been shown to boost white blood cells and their disease-fighting response when encountering viruses. If you are a fan of garlic or not, there are capsule supplements available so you can get all the benefits you need.

• Geranium: Geranium is a natural antiseptic with a multitude of antibacterial and anti-fungal properties that boost the immune response within the body. It is able to prevent bacterial infections and inhibit common bacterial strains from entering the body. Geranium is a great aid in detoxifying the body as well, aiding in digestive function and inhibiting excess intestinal gas.