It’s no secret why people are paying more attention to their immunity in 2021. Last year’s coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic situation taught us to keep our health on priority particularly our immune health. Strong immunity system helps us to fight against viruses or diseases by protecting us from getting ill in the first place.
Experts say that good sleep, nutritious diet, and regular exercise helps in maintaining right immunity balance in body. However, taking supplements or vitamins helps in boosting immunity naturally or fight coronavirus (COVID-19) without causing any side effects.
Here is the list of 8 best supplements to boost your immune system:
1. Vitamin C supplements
Vitamin C plays an important part in the immune system. It supports the production and activity of antibodies and the activity of natural killer cells. The immune cells made by vitamin C in the body identify and kill viruses and bacteria.
Vitamin C supplements are an antioxidant and a cofactor for a family of biosynthetic and gene regulatory enzymes. They contribute to immune defense by supporting various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune system.
2. Curcumin capsules
Curcumin is a herbal supplement; generally, a bright yellow ingredient to boost immunity. It helps to fight against viral replication. It is also used to reduce inflammation, suppress various inflammatory molecules which are responsible for the causes of the damage by viruses.
Curcumin also known as Turmeric is used to treat many health ailments due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and well known in Ayurveda since ancient times.
Apart from immunity, it also helps in bringing a natural glow, reduces spots, blemishes, acne marks, wrinkles, joint pain, and adds strength to bones.
3. Zinc tablets
Zinc is available in food as a dietary supplement. It helps in supporting the immune system and aids in healing; acting as an essential mineral in the human body.
Zinc supplements are generally taken to sustain a functioning immune system. They eliminate the pathogens (bacteria, virus, or other microorganism that can cause disease). Zinc deficiency in body can reduce this function of eliminating pathogen which can adversely affect the immune system.
Researchers found that people who take zinc supplements cleared up common cold symptoms more quickly than people with zinc deficiency.
4. Vitamin D supplements
Low levels of Vitamin D in body is associated with underlying cause of frequent infections or autoimmune diseases. It can also further worsen the state of autoimmune disease. Vitamin D supplements or other health supplements which contain Vitamin D help in keeping the immune system healthy.
Vitamin D receptors and activating enzymes are present on the surface of white blood cells; misbalanced stimulation can set in autoimmune diseases easily and frequent infections can occur.
5. Elderberry extract
Elderberry extract has antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. The berries and flowers of elderberry is full of vitamins and antioxidants that may boost your immune system.
This is why elderberry supplements/syrup helps in building strong immunity to get quicker relief in case of colds, flus, and bacterial sinus infections. Elderberry works by reducing swelling in the mucus membranes.
6. Herbal formulation
Due to covid pandemic, there are many herbal formulations immunity booster in the market that can help in increasing immunity. They contain such Ayurvedic herbs for immune system that helps to boost immunity naturally. Nature’s Island Instant Kadha is one of the most effective and traditional immunity boosters, being a miraculous blend of 8 powerful Indian herbs and spices- Tulsi, Amla, Mulethi, Ginger, Dalchini, Kali Mirch, Ashwagandha, and Haldi. It is said to be the best remedy against cold, fever, and sore throat. It is very easy to prepare and takes just about 2- 3 minutes. Simply add one scoop of the Instant Kadha to boiling water, stir well, and drink it to stay away from stuffy nose and chest congestion.
7. Cow colostrum
Cow Colostrum is the first milk of cow which is considered as a strong immunity booster. Supplements made from Bovine colostrum may strengthen your immune system and help your body fight disease-causing agents. The immune-boosting effects of colostrum are mostly due to its high concentration of the antibodies IgA and IgG. These antibodies are proteins that fight viruses and bacteria.
8. Probiotics
Probiotics provides protection to your immune system and inhibit the growth of harmful gut bacteria. It also promotes the production of natural antibodies in the body. They may also boost immune cells like the IgA-producing cells, T lymphocytes, and natural killer cells.
Probiotics from food or supplements helps with immunity building strength and other diseases.
Before taking any supplements, check with your doctor first if there may be any interactions with other medications you are currently taking.