Top Immune System Boosters You’re Missing Out On
What Is The Immune System | What Does Your Immune System Fight | Natural Boosters | Popular Products | Warnings And Side Effects | Disclaimer
If you’re like us, you probably weren’t expecting to welcome the new year with a pandemic in the early months of 2020. But, unfortunately it’s here. And it’s essential that you do everything you can to keep yourself, your family and friends, and your community healthy. However, the novel COVID-19 isn’t the only threat to your immune system. That’s why this post is going to cover all your bases, from what your immune system actually does to natural immune system booster to help it work its best.
What Does “Immunity” Mean?
In this case, we are referring to the biological definition of immunity. This refers to the state of being resistant to a disease, illness, or having antibodies/lymphocytes to react to a specific antigen. (1)
While we will attempt to provide as much scientific evidence, information, and descriptions as possible–we’re also going to try to break things down in simple terms. After all, this isn’t your college biology course.
What Is Your Immune System? (2)
Your immune system is essentially your body’s armor. It protects you from diseases, infections, and all sorts of pathogens. When a disease, antigen, or “foreign invader” is detected by your immune system, a response is sent to your body to begin fighting it off. This response can include signaling various parts of the body, such as:
- Thymus
- Spleen
- Lymph Nodes
- Macrophages
- Lymphocytes (including B & T cells and antibodies)
- etc.
As you can imagine, there are different roles for each part of your immune system. But, before we dive into those, let’s discuss briefly the formation of your immune system. For starters, a percentage of your immune system that is inherited, this is your “Innate Immune System”. The innate immune system , also your rapid response system, acts as your first line of defense to invaders. This system is active from the moment you are born.
It includes responses like:
- Cough reflex
- Enzymes in tears and skin oils
- Mucus
- Stomach acid
Genes:
Your genes are the building blocks of growth and development. They determine things like your physical characteristics such as your hair and eye color, but they also play a role in your immune system. At this moment, the role of genes on the immune system isn’t completely understood. There is a ton of research ongoing, not only researching specific genes but specific diseases and disorders. Fortunately, your immune system isn’t completely inherited and there’s a large portion of it that you are actively building, which generally referred to as your “Adaptive Immune System”. The adaptive immune system is constantly growing as you are exposed to microbes or chemicals. (3,4)
Hormones:
Hormones play a significant role in the immune system. In fact, immune cells can produce their own hormones, store them, and secrete them. And the hormones secreted by immune cells can be identical to the hormones produced by the endocrine glands. However, unlike the glandular endocrine cells, immune cells are mobile cells. By being mobile, these cells can transport the stored hormones to different places. An example of this is in the case of endorphin, which calms pain caused by inflammation. But, other hormones play a role in your immune system too, such as your sex hormones. These hormones modulate the development and activity of both innate and adaptive immunity differently in men and women. (5,6,7)
Organs and Cells: (8)
The human body is made up of organs, vessels, individual cells, and proteins, all that can collaboratively protect us. Our first barriers of protection include our skin and mucous membranes (mechanical protective wall). But, a wall cannot stand firmly without support. This support comes as our own antibacterial substances (enzymes in saliva), hair-like structures called cilia, stomach acid, and even our own gut bacteria (flora).
The organs in the immune system control the development of defense cells as well. These cells are called lymphocytes, which is primarily produced in bone marrow and the thymus. But, production of many defensive cells begin in the bone marrow where they may multiply and migrate to the bloodstream. The thymus is a gland-like organ situated behind the breast bone above the heart. There are different defensive cells that originate here as well, including the T lymphocytes (T cells), which is responsible for coordinating the innate and adaptive immune system.
The lymphatic system including the lymph nodes and vessels are also very important to the immune system. These structures are important for continually exchanging substances between blood and tissue. The lymph nodes can filter and clean the lymph fluid on its way to larger vessels, where it will eventually enter the bloodstream. The lymph nodes response to an antigen/pathogen may cause them to appear swollen, painful, or warm to the touch.
In addition to these structures, we also have our spleen, tonsils, and other mucous membranes. Where the spleen is mainly responsible (after birth) for removing blood cells and for specific defensive functions like storing defense cells like blood platelets.
What Does Your Immune System Fight Off?
We mentioned, several times, that for a defensive action to take place, there is a signaling mechanism that takes place first. This signal can occur from a ton of different things, such as: foreign bodies or antigens, which can come in the form of bacteria, fungi, or viruses. When an antigen attaches to an immune cell receptor, a series of processes in the body are triggered. If it’s the first time the body comes in contact with antigen, the body essentially stores information about the antigen and how to fight it off, kind of like a RAP sheet. That way if contact happens again, the fight can start faster. Sometimes the body’s own cells and protein can trigger a defensive response (autoimmune response), which leads to the body fight off harmless cells. (9)
Inflammation: (10,11)
Inflammation has a bad rep when it comes to injury and illness. However, it’s a vital defense mechanism. Inflammation occurs when the immune system comes in contact with harmful stimuli (pathogens, damaged cells, etc.,.).
Inflammation can often be characterized by redness, swelling, heat, pain and loss of tissue function. In many cases, inflammation is the result of local immune, vascular, and or inflammatory cell responses to infection or injury.
So why the bad rep?
Inflammation can ignite a laundry list of disorders affecting the whole body. Because inflammation is an immune response, you’ll have to rely on outside sources to fend off chronic inflammation. This could include medication, supplements, and eating an anti-inflammation diet. As well as managing your stress and visiting your doctor as needed.
Allergies:
Allergies are one of the most common and chronic health conditions in the world. They can affect people of all ages, races, genders, and statuses. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can range in severity, in more serious reactions, they can be life-threatening. Allergies can have many different triggers and in some cases you may only need to be near an allergen for a reaction to occur. Once contact with an allergen occurs, the immune system can create antibodies against it. But the response can look like wheezing, itching, runny noses and other symptoms. That contact could be from inhalation, ingestion, or through the skin. And you can make contact with an allergen at any age. (12)
Bacteria, Infections, and Viruses ..Oh My! (13,14,15)
Bacteria is a single-cell life-form that can reproduce quickly on it’s own. Most bacteria are not harmful to people, with the several exceptions like strep throat, tuberculosis and Urinary tract infections. Viruses, on the other hand, cannot reproduce on their own. They require cells from a living host to replicate themselves. Essentially, viruses invade your body and take over cells, directing it to produce the virus.
When pathogens invade body cells and reproduce, an infection occurs. Although infections lead to an immune response, it’s not always enough to eliminate an infection. In these cases the infection could lead to diseases. But, an infection can be either bacterial or viral, meaning it can be sourced from a bacteria or virus. An important distinction between them being that antibiotics can only fight off bacteria. While there are some antiviral medications to treat viruses, it’s important to get vaccinations to build your immune systems defense against viruses. Vaccinations can contain dead or weakened germs. When you get a vaccine, your immune system is able to fight off the germs better due to them being weakened. Then your immune system will be able to create a “blueprint” of how fight off the virus if you were to come in contact again.
Natural Immune System Boosters: (16,17,18,19,20)
As you can imagine, there are some lifestyle changes you can make that act as an immune system booster, some easier than others. Currently, researchers are evaluating lifestyles and other outside factors on immune system function. So how significant various lifestyle changes are to your immune function is an ongoing research question. But, there are some factors that scientists have indicated can help strengthen your immune system.
Including:
- Don’t smoke.
- Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables.
- Exercise regularly.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation.
- Get adequate sleep.
- Take steps to avoid infection, such as washing your hands frequently and cooking meats thoroughly.
- Try to minimize stress.
Popular Supplements To Boost Immune System:
While these products may benefit some individuals, it’s important to note they do not replace proper medication or vaccines. For questions regarding whether you may personally benefit from listed or non-listed supplements, please seek the advice from your primary care physician. Additionally, the intention of these supplements is not to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or illness.
It is especially important during the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic to understand that no supplement, diet, or lifestyle modification other than social distancing and proper hygiene practices will act as preventive measures against the virus. Currently, no research suggests the use of supplements or immune system boosters to protect against COVID-19.
Immune System Boosters: Vitamins and Minerals
Zinc is important to the body for many reasons. But, specifically for the immune system, a zinc-deficient person may experience an increased susceptibility to a variety of pathogens and infections. This is due to zinc being crucial for normal development and functions of cells mediating innate or nonspecific immunity.(21)
How To Take Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals Zinc Lozenges:
The manufacturer recommends to completely dissolve one (1) lozenge in mouth every 2-3 wakeful hours, not to exceed eight (8) lozenges per day as an adult and do not take more than three (3) lozenges for children, or as recommended by a healthcare practitioner.
Selenium is an important antioxidant, meaning it can assist with lowering oxidative stress in your body. This action can help reduce inflammation and boost immunity. In fact, there is evidence that a selenium deficiency may affect cell-mediated immunity to a greater extent than humoral immunity for anti-influenza viral responses in an animal model. (22)
How To Take Now Foods Selenium:
The manufacturer recommends:
- Capsules: Take 1 capsule daily with a meal.
- Tablets: Take 1 tablet 1 to 2 times daily with food.
Iron is essential for many metabolic processes. Additionally, there is an interaction between normal iron levels and immune function, including the innate immune response. The most frequent example of this interaction is in anemia of chronic disease (ACD). (23)
How To Take Now Foods Iron:
The manufacturer recommends taking one (1) capsule daily with a meal. Store in a cool, dry place after opening.
Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining vision, promoting growth and development, and is an anti-inflammatory vitamin. Research suggests that immune organs need consistent dietary intake of vitamin A. Additionally, vitamin A may regulate bone marrow population and play a role in differentiation, maturation, and function of cells of the innate immune system. (24)
How To Take Now Foods Vitamin A:
The manufacturer recommends taking one (1) softgel daily with a meal. Store in a cool, dry place after opening.
Vitamin B6 affects both humoral and cell-mediated immune responses. Additionally, research suggests that vitamin B6 may influence tumor growth and disease processes. A deficiency in this vitamin may lead to decreased production of white blood cells and how proteins interact with white blood cells. (25)
How To Take Life Extension Vitamin B6:
The manufacturer recommends taking one (1) daily with food, or as recommended by a healthcare practitioner.
Vitamin C is an essential vitamin for immune health. It supports immune cells and may enhance their ability to protect against infection. Research currently suggests, supplementing with vitamin C may aid in reducing the duration and severity of upper respiratory infections, including the common cold. (26)
How To Take Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals Vitamin C:
The manufacturer recommends taking two (2) tablets one to two times daily, preferably with food.
Vitamin D plays a significant role in your immune defense. In fact, it may enhance production of white blood cells and decrease inflammation. A deficiency in vitamin is prevalent in autoimmune diseases and associated with increased risk for upper respiratory infections. (27)
How To Take Healthy Origins Vitamin D3:
The manufacturer recommends taking one (1) softgel every other day, preferably with a meal, or as directed by a health care professional.
Vitamin E like vitamin D plays a role with anti-inflammation. But, it’s also a powerful antioxidant that may aid in fighting off infections. (28)
How To Take Kirkland Vitamin E:
The manufacturer recommends taking one (1) softgel daily, preferably with a meal.
Immune System Boosters: Herbs
Astragalus has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It may support an enhanced immune system and help to fight infections, kill bacteria and viruses and also combat the common cold. (29)
How To Take Now Foods Astragalus:
The manufacturer recommends taking two (2) capsules 2 to 3 times daily, preferably with food. Store in a cool, dry place after opening.
Astragalus Review By Liz: “This is an awesome product for supporting your immune system. My number of common colds has reduced by a significant amount. The NOW brand is a great brand.”
Echinacea is high in antioxidants, which will help the body fight off oxidative stress. But, it may benefit the immune system in other ways too. Research suggests Echinacea may be able to help your body fight off infections and reduce the duration of the common cold. (30)
How To Take Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals Echinacea:
The manufacturer recommends taking one (1) tablet (1 to 4 times daily as needed).
Echinacea Review By Bradshaw: ” I love this product I could swear by it helps.”
Black Elderberry extract may be beneficial for reducing the length and severity of colds and the flu. It also may promote heart health through reducing cholesterol and blood sugar levels. (31)
How To Take Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals Black Elderberry:
The manufacturer recommends taking one (1) tablet 1-3 times daily or as directed by a qualified health care professional.
Black Elderberry Review By N/A: “Great price fully dosed good addition to immunity support”
Immune System Booster Blends:
With so many ways to boost your immune system, you shouldn’t have to settle with just one vitamin, mineral, or herb, and that’s where blends can come handy. This section will go through some of our new and popular immune system booster blend products.
Force Factor Immunity:
Force Factor Immunity contains 16 ingredients to help boost your immune system and support overall wellbeing. Included in those ingredients are some that we’ve gone over like, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Zinc, Selenium, Elderberry Extract, and Echinacea Extract.
Quercetin Dihydrate:
Quercetin Dihydrate is an antioxidant, which like the other antioxidants, can help fight oxidative stress, inflammation, and even help reduce blood pressure. (32)
Wellmune:
Wellmune is a yeast beta glucan, which has been clinically studied for its potential in supporting the immune system. (33)
Ginger:
Ginger has potent anti-inflammatory compounds as it is an antioxidant. In addition, it may play a role in enhancing immune response. (34)
Turmeric Extract:
Turmeric Extract’s active compound, curcumin, shows a pivotal role in the modulation of the immune system. It also may have positive benefits as a anti-diabetic, anti-microbial, hepato-protective activity, anti-inflammatory, and neurodegenerative diseases. (35)
Acai Berry Extract:
Acai Berry Extract is another ingredient in this blend that is loaded with antioxidants. This aids in its benefits towards fighting off free radicals, which means defending you from diseases like diabetes, cancer, and even heart disease. (36,37)
Garlic Extract:
Garlic Extract contains allicin, which is thought to aid in immune-boosting properties. (38)
LactoSpore MTCC 58556:
LactoSpore MTCC 58556, is a lactose free, non-GMO with GRAS status which contains spores of B. coagulans MTCC 5856 strain. B. coagulans MTCC 5856 has been shown to be effective for treating IBS symptoms with major depressive disorder.†
Black Pepper Fruit Extract:
Black Pepper Fruit Extract may increase the bioavailability of the other ingredients within this formula and also may have its own thermogenic properties. (39)
How To Take Force Factor Immunity:
The manufacturers recommend taking 3 tablets daily with breakfast.
Force Factor Immunity Review By Marissa: “I love the convenience of this product—the vitamins and supplements I’m counting on individually during this precarious time now rolled into one.”
Universal Nutrition Immunity Pak:
Like Force Factor Immunity, Universal Nutrition Immunity Pak features some ingredients previously gone over. This includes: Astragalus Root, Garlic, Ginger, Quercetin, and Black Pepper Extract. What’s left is presented in 2 complexes, the Immune Herbal Support Complex and the Immune Antioxidant Complex.
Immune Herbal Support Complex (2000 mg): (40, 41)
The first ingredient in this complex is Olive Leaf Extract, which may be beneficial for cardioprotective, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The next ingredient, Ashwagandha Extract, is a powerful adaptogen and can aid in the body’s resilience to stress. In addition to this, ashwagandha may improve the body’s defense response against diseases and help protect against cellular damage caused by free radicals.
Immune Antioxidant Complex: (42,43,44,45,46,47)
The first ingredient in this complex is N-Acetyl-Cysteine or NAC, which is essential for making the antioxidant glutathione. It also may aid with promoting kidney and liver health, and aid in relieving respiratory distress. Following NAC, we have grape seed extract; this ingredient may be beneficial in reducing blood pressure, improving blood flow, and also aid in reducing oxidative damage. Finally, we have Alpha Lipoic Acid; this ingredient acts as an antioxidant and also may aid in regulating the immune system.
How To Take Universal Nutrition Immunity Pak:
The manufacturers recommend taking 1 pack with breakfast or any other meal.
Universal Nutrition Immunity Pak Review By Amy: “I have been taking universal products for years. This product is great just like the rest of the line.”
Supplements For COVID-19:
When you’re trying to avoid getting sick, whether it be from coronavirus or the common cold, there are things you can do to help strengthen your body. So without further ado let’s dive into the doctor recommended supplements!
Magnesium: (48)
What does the research say:
- Basic and clinical research have demonstrated that magnesium sulfate is beneficial for the treatment of lung-related diseases, such as asthma and pneumonia through its anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, and bronchial smooth muscle relaxation.
- Magnesium supplementation has been shown to prevent or treat a variety of disorders or diseases related to respiratory system, reproductive system, nervous system, digestive system, and cardiovascular system as well as kidney injury, diabetes and cancer.
Zinc: (49)
What does the research say:
- Zinc is the second most abundant essential trace element in the human body with critical roles in immune health and response to infectious diseases.
- Zinc provides a safe and cheap alternative to enhance immunity worldwide, both to correct chronic nutritional deficiencies and to address acute deficiencies resulting from a viral infection and host immune response.
Despite the data that points towards these supplements (and even vitamin C) as being beneficial for relieving symptoms and even shortening the down time of being sick, there is inconsistencies. In a recent study published on February 12, 2021, vitamin C, zinc, and a combination of the two did not relieve symptoms significantly. However, as always, individual experiences may very. Especially, if you happen to be deficient.†
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Warnings And Side Effects:
Not intended for use by those under the age of 18. Do not exceed recommended dose. Before using these products seek advice from a medical doctor if you are unaware of your current health condition or planning any medical procedure. Discontinue use if any allergic or adverse reaction occurs and alert your doctor. Store product in a cool, dry place, away from heat, moisture and sunlight.
Disclaimer:
The intention of the information provided is for reference only and we are in no way providing medical advice or instruction. The information provided in this post is based on anecdotal information and available studies/reviews. While it is our goal to maintain and display accurate information, we can’t guarantee it represents the latest formulation of the product or information. Therefore, if you have any concerns, please visit the manufacturer’s website. Also, the information above is not a representation of our views at Same Day Supplements. Rather, these are the views and information provided by manufacturers and users. Also, the Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated these statements. Finally, the intention of these products is not to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or illness.