Immunity is the lack of susceptibility or resistance to a noxious agent or process, particularly a pathogen or infectious disease. Immunity can develop naturally or be acquired by past exposure or immunization.
Your immune system consists of a complex collection of cells, processes, and chemicals that define your body against invading pathogens, including viruses, toxins, and bacteria.
Keeping your immune system healthy is key to preventing infection and disease.
Some research suggests supplementing with certain vitamins, minerals, and herbs may help boost your immune system. However, before attempting a new supplement, consult with a healthcare expert, since some supplements may interact with other prescriptions.
Here are few supplements that are known for their immune-boosting
VITAMIN D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble substance that your immune system needs to function properly.
Vitamin D enhances and reduces inflammation, which promotes immunological response, and enhances the pathogen-fighting activities of monocytes and macrophages – white blood cells that are crucial components of your immune system.
Many people are low in this essential vitamin, which may impair immunological function.
Vitamin D insufficiency has been linked to an increased risk of a number of illnesses, including
Conditions include osteoporosis, cancer, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and depression.
According to studies, taking vitamin D supplements may aid enhance immunological response.
ZINC
Zinc, an essential vitamin, can be found in a range of plant and animal diets, as well as supplementation. It has an important role in skin health, immunological function, and cell proliferation, and may protect against acne, inflammation, and other disorders.
Zinc is necessary for several activities in the body, including
Gene expression, enzymatic reactions
Immune function includes protein synthesis.
Functions include DNA synthesis, wound healing, and growth/development.
Zinc is naturally occurring in a wide range of plant and animal diets.
Breakfast cereals and snack bars are frequently fortified with synthetic versions of zinc because they lack this mineral naturally.
You can also take zinc pills or multi-nutrient supplements containing zinc.
Zinc, which plays an important role in immune function, is also included to certain lozenges and other natural cold treatments. Zinc is an essential mineral that your body cannot produce on its own. It promotes development, DNA synthesis, immunological function, and other physiological processes.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is likely the most popular supplement for infection prevention due to its importance in immunological health.
This vitamin supports the function.Trusted source of diverse immune cells, which improves their ability to fight infection. It could also help:
Promote cellular death by removing old cells and replacing them with new ones
act as an antioxidant and defend against oxidative stress.
Reduce the length and severity of upper respiratory tract infections, such as the common cold.
Furthermore, high-dose intravenous vitamin C treatment may help relieve symptoms in persons with severe illnesses.
Probiotics
These are good bacteria that promote gut health, which is directly related to immune function. Probiotics contribute to the maintenance of a healthy gut flora, which supports immunological responses. Fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, as well as supplements, contain probiotics. Look for probiotic supplements with a variety of strains and CFUs (colony-forming units) ranging from 1 to 10 billion per day.
Elderberry
Black elderberry (Sambucus nigra), which has long been used to treat infections, is being researched for its effects on immune health. Elderberry extract is high in antioxidants and has long been used to strengthen the immune system and relieve cold and flu symptoms. It may assist to minimize the duration and severity of diseases by boosting immune function. Elderberry supplements are available in several forms, including syrups, pills, and gummies.
Garlic
Garlic’s sulfur-containing components provide antibacterial and immune-boosting qualities. It may improve immune cell activity and overall immunological health. To gain the benefits of garlic, utilize either fresh garlic or garlic pills.
B complex vitamins
B vitamins, including B12 and B6, are important for a healthy immune response.
Yet, many adults are deficient in them, which may negatively affect immune health.
Green tea extract
Green tea is made by steaming, pan-frying, and then drying Camellia sinensis leaves. Green tea is not fermented, allowing it to retain essential chemicals known as polyphenols, which appear to be responsible for many of its advantages. It also has caffeine and Contains antioxidants such as EGCG, which promote immunological function. Green tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant. The dried leaves and leaf buds are used to manufacture a variety of teas, including black and oolong. People routinely use a US FDA-approved prescription medicine containing green tea to treat genital warts. Green tea has been used as a drink or supplement to treat excessive cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart disease, and ovarian cancer. It is also used to treat a variety of different illnesses, however the majority of these applications lack scientific validity.
Many supplements on the market, including zinc, elderberry, and vitamins C and D, may assist to boost immune function.
Although these supplements may have a minor advantage for immunological health, they cannot be used to replace a nutritious diet and lifestyle.
If you decide to try a supplement, check with a healthcare practitioner first, because some supplements may interfere with certain drugs or be inappropriate for some people.