Everyone needs a healthy immune system but, in light of the current COVID-19 crisis, a lot of people are suddenly aware that their immune systems are even more critical. A strong immune system could help reduce your risk of contracting this virulent disease and could help you fight it off faster if you become infected.
We all know the best way to optimize your immune system is through diet and lifestyle. Eating lots of fruits and vegetables, getting enough sleep, exercise, and keeping a lid on stress are all important to keep your system strong.
However, these aren’t always areas we can stay on top of and despite doing all the right things, you may still feel that your immune system needs a helping hand. Here are 7 top immunity-boosting supplements to help support your system long term ( in no particular order)
Note: Choose supplements from brands you trust. High quality is what you should aim for.
SUPPLEMENTS TO BOOST IMMUNITY
#1 Chlorella
Chlorella is a type of algae that packs a big nutrient punch, as it contains more than 15 vitamins and minerals including iron, calcium, magnesium, B6, B12, etc.
The cells that make up our immune system benefit from good nutrition and chlorella is one of the best sources to build our defenses.
Not only is immune function a benefit it has a range of others such as boosting energy, digestion, detoxification and lowering blood pressure. If you aren't getting a lot of fresh fruit and vegetables then this algae will help fill in the blanks for you.
We recommend a supplement like this one here, and to start off with a low dose and slowly increase as you may feel a detox effect.
#2 Beta-glucan
FOOD SOURCE: Oats, barley, mushrooms, bakers yeast, algae.
If you want to supercharge your immune system, then Beta Glucan is your best bet. Known as the world’s most powerful immunomodulator, meaning that it helps activate and enhance all of the functions of your immune system.
In layman's terms, it helps your immune system become more "aware" and more effective at fighting off foreign invaders or mutations such as cancers, tumors, bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi.
The key is to make sure you get top quality. We recommend trying this one here.
#3 Zinc
FOOD SOURCES: Meat, seafood, nuts, seeds, legumes and dairy.
Zinc is a very important mineral as it is involved in almost every aspect of the immune process. Zinc can dramatically increase the production and function of important immune cells that help fight colds. It is also helpful for many other things such as digestion, hormones, skin health, mood etc.
If your looking to boost your immune system, supplementary zinc, especially when stacked with vitamin C can be a very good addition.
#4 Selenium
FOOD SOURCES: garlic, broccoli, tuna, sardines, brazil nuts, and barley.
Selenium is a mineral with powerful immune-boosting properties. This antioxidant helps lower oxidative stress in your body which reduces inflammation and enhances immunity.
In addition to this selenium may also help lower the risk of certain cancers and is also used as a treatment to slow the growth of cancerous cells.
#5 Vitamin C
FOOD SOURCES: Found in many citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, mandarins and many vegetables.
We all know this is one of the top vitamins for immunity but just because we know this, its important not to underestimate its power. Lack of vitamin C killed many a sailor back in the old days, causing a disease called scurvy. In fact, British sailors earned the nickname limeys because their navy used limes to prevent this disease. It’s a nickname that is still used today.
Vitamin C is in many fruits and vegetables, but it is also great to supplement to make sure you're getting enough of this vital nutrient, especially if you are unable to eat adequate amounts. Make sure you purchase a high-quality vitamin C that has high absorption.
#6 Vitamin A
FOOD SOURCES: Vitamin A is commonly found in brightly colored fruits and vegetables such as carrots, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, and squash.
Vitamin A is the generic term for a group of fat-soluble compounds. It plays an important role in many areas of your health but is also important for your immune system. It’s involved in the production and function of white blood cells, which help capture and clear bacteria and other pathogens from your bloodstream.
This means that a deficiency in vitamin A can increase your susceptibility to infections and delay your recovery when you get sick. It’s recommended that men get 900 mcg, women 700 mcg.
Chlorella contains high amounts of vitamin A so if you are taking this already there should be no need to supplement, if not make sure you aren't missing this vitamin.
#7 Vitamin D
FOOD SOURCES: Found in foods like salmon, tuna, and sardines.
Vitamin D, also known as the sunshine vitamin. Not only can you find it in some food sources, but its most commonly obtained from the sun, as your body can synthesize it when exposed to sunlight. Vitamin D plays a vital role in the function of your immune system, not least because it multiplies the potency of other vitamins and minerals.
20-30 minutes out in the sun should be enough to top up your vitamin D levels up but, if you are stuck inside or the sun refuses to shine, a supplement may help.