Top 10 Supplements to Boost Your Immune System

We all know how important it is to keep our immune systems strong, especially with everything going on in the world in the last few years. While eating right, staying active, and getting enough sleep are key, sometimes we can all use a little extra help. This is where supplements come in! 

So, here’s a rundown of the best supplements for immune health that can give you the support you need to keep you feeling your best.

1. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is the classic go-to when we think about boosting our immunity, and it is definitely not without reason. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect our cells and supports the production of white blood cells - the ones that go to battle when we’re fighting off a cold. 

Adding a vitamin C supplement to our routine can help us say ahead of the game, especially during cold and flu season.

2. Vitamin D

Vitamin D aka “sunshine” vitamin, because our body produces it when exposed to sunlight,  helps our immune cells do their job effectively. It also aids in the better absorption of calcium and phosphorus in the body, playing a key role in the development and maintenance of bone health. Many of us don’t get enough sunlight, so a supplement can make sure our levels stay where they need to be, reducing the risk of infections. 

3. Zinc

Zinc seems to be the underdog of your immune system. The proper functioning of immune cells and the downregulation of inflammation are made possible by this vital mineral. Zinc is present in small amounts in the body, about 2 or 3 grams. But because of this, even a small deficiency is noticeable. Zinc is involved in many processes in the body, such as protein synthesis, thereby promoting mental and physical growth and development. It also contributes to strengthening the immune system and the body's resistance, reducing the likelihood of catching a cold. Vitamin A enhances zinc absorption, and in combination with vitamin C, it is an excellent choice for preventing colds.

4. Elderberry

Elderberry has been used for centuries as a natural remedy, and it's making a well-deserved comeback in the world of immune health. These little dark berries contain lots of antioxidants that are great at detoxifying harmful free radicals, and reducing inflammation in the body which contributes positively to an improved immune response in our system.

5. Probiotics

Healthy gut = happy organism, and of course that implies a more robust immune system as well! Probiotics are good bacteria that keep our guts in check. It is believed that the digestive tract of an adult contains about 100 trillion microorganisms, which is ten times the number of all the cells that make up the human body. Much of our immune system is in our gut, so taking a probiotic daily can help keep things running as they should be.

6. Collagen 

Commonly referred to as the “glue” that helps hold our bodies together, collagen certainly deserves that title. This key protein * which is one of the most abundant in the human body and comprises about a third of our total protein weight, helps provide structure, strength and elasticity to the skin - as well as our bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments. The older we get, the less collagen our body naturally makes and it starts to show in your skin as well as joint health. So, taking a collagen supplement is extremely important as we age. 

7. Echinacea

If you feel like a cold is developing, echinacea can come to the rescue. This herb has been used as one of the natural immune boosters for centuries, and is said to have immune system-boosting properties that could enhance the white blood cells count in our body. These cells are important in eliminating colds and flu attacks, this provides the immune system with some additional muscle. Echinacea may taste a bit strong but the benefits it gives you are well worth stomaching its intense flavor, especially during those times when we need that boost to help us stay healthy.

8. Vitamin A

Vitamin A truly deserves its top spot on the vitamin chart not just because of alphabetical order but due to its numerous vital functions in the body. Vitamin A protects cell membranes and strengthens the skin and mucous membranes, helping to prevent various infections and uncontrolled tissue growth. For this reason, it is rightly called the "guardian of the entire organism.” A vitamin A supplement can help pick up the slack and maintain your immune system strong. 

9. Turmeric

The active ingredient curcumin in the vibrant yellow-colored spice turmeric is a powerful supplement. Because turmeric is one of the strongest anti-inflammatory supplements and antioxidants, it helps keep our immune system strong, ambushing anything trying to come in. Taking a daily turmeric supplement is an effortless and natural method of fortifying the immune system for improved health.

10. Selenium

Selenium is not only a powerful antioxidant but it’s also extremely important for the health of the thyroid gland, cardiovascular system, immune system, skin, hair, nails, and male reproductive organs. It is a component of several key thyroid enzymes, and scientific evidence shows it has a highly positive impact on autoimmune thyroid diseases, including Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Selenium is also known for its synergistic effect with vitamin E in providing oxidative protection for cells. Selenium deficiency is linked to a weakened immune response, and adequate selenium intake enhances immune defense against infections caused by certain viruses, including seasonal respiratory viruses.

Our immunity, like most aspects of health, comes down to balance and should be taken in the whole. Supplements can be a valuable tool, but they are likely most effective when used in conjunction with the basics of health – exercise and sleep. As with all new supplements, best practice is to consult a healthcare professional first before taking anything -  especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are already on medication. By using the right combination of supplements and a balanced lifestyle, you are better positioned to have strong immunity standing by when challenges occur.

This is a guest blog entry.