The immune system is our body’s first line of defense, ramping up at the earliest sign of a perceived threat. A simple reaction that causes you to sneeze, cough, or blow your nose, is your immune system speaking.
The immune system includes different organs, chemicals, cells, and proteins, that work as a team. The MVP of that team is the white blood cell. While balancing the demands of our body can be a full-time job, don’t be afraid to lean on some extra support. A diet rich in color and select nutrients can be found through food and supplementation. This is a great way to maintain and nourish the immune system.1
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a powerful ally for the immune system. It’s found naturally in peppers, citrus fruits, and vegetables. Vitamin C plays a role in iron absorption, transport, and storage, which means it is critical for energy, not just immune support. This vitamin can also aid in the synthesis of collagen and support healthy cholesterol levels. Since vitamin C is an essential vitamin, it can’t be produced by the body, and must be acquired through either diet or supplementation.2
Vitamin D
We all know the major role the sun plays in our sense of well-being, especially as we come into summer months. What you may not know is that getting adequate sun exposure can support a healthy immune system. Consuming enough vitamin D to meet our metabolic needs may support immunity and promote the body’s normal regulation of T-cell function. Adequate vitamin D intake can help maintain overall cellular health, normal calcium absorption, and bone health. Good-quality vitamin D supplements are often combined with vitamin K2, as these vitamins work together in the body to support calcium absorption, healthy arteries, and overall well-being.
Zinc
Zinc is an essential trace mineral that supports approximately 300 different enzyme reactions.3 This mineral is often found in both plant and animal foods such as: nuts and seeds, mushrooms, berries, red meats, eggs, poultry, and some seafood. Zinc plays a role in most biochemical pathways and is found in virtually all body tissues, showing just how important zinc is for health. Because zinc contributes to many enzymatic processes, it can assist the body in maintaining a large range of functions including digestion, cellular repair, and a normal immune response.3
Outside of eating a balanced diet high in fruits and vegetables and taking daily supplements3, here are other ways you can support your immune system daily:
- Consume an adequate amount of water according to your needs
- Exercise regularly
- Meditation
- Get a proper amount of sleep each night
- Practice good hygiene by washing hands frequently
- Laughter (ever hear laughter is good for the soul? Laughter can reduce stress hormones in the body and ease tension)
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Sources:
Salleh, Mohd Razali. Life Event, Stress and Illness. Oct. 2008, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3341916/.
Vitamin C: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002404.htm.
Zinc. www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-982/zinc.
Zincc. www.healthline.com/nutrition/zinc.