To help maintain health this season, it’s important to get the nutrients your body needs every day. “Most Americans have nutrient gaps in their diet, but people can make up for the nutrients they lack by adding vitamins and supplements to a daily wellness routine,” says Suzy Cohen, registered pharmacist and author of “The 24-Hour Pharmacist.” There are a variety of ways vitamins and supplements can support a healthy immune system, but when you’re in the vitamin aisle it is important to look for quality products.
As the number of products in the vitamin aisle can be overwhelming, Cohen recommends first looking at the brand, seeking only those committed to science-based protocols for product development, and those that are tested and verified by third-party public health organizations such as the United States Pharmacopoeia (USP).
Immune Supporting Supplements
• Vitamin C – A powerful antioxidant, Vitamin C helps maintain a healthy immune system and protects against damaging free radicals. Additionally, Vitamin C is necessary for the body to manufacture collagen, which is essential for healthy skin.
• Vitamin D – Supports teeth, bone and immune health, and healthy levels of Vitamin D in your body may promote your heart health as well.
• Probiotics – Certain types of probiotics supply “good bacteria” that can help maintain immune system health.
• Zinc – Maintaining healthy levels of zinc in your body is necessary for healthy growth, development and proper immune function. Zinc also provides antioxidant support which helps to protect the body against damaging free radicals.
• Echinacea – Echinacea may support healthy immune function.
Additional Immune Boosting Techniques
• Strive to get seven to eight hours of sleep each night.
• Practice relaxation techniques to get rid of stress and the harmful hormones it can trigger.
• Wash your hands regularly, especially before meals.
• Eat a balanced diet. Check out the new dietary guidelines from the U.S. Department of Agriculture at www.choosemyplate.gov.
• Exercise regularly. According to Harvard Health Publications, exercise may additionally support a healthy immune system by promoting healthy circulation, moving immune system cells throughout the body.
If You Get Sick
There are a number of things you can do to stop the spread of the virus.
• Cough or sneeze into the inside of your elbow.
• Wash your hands often.
• Keep your hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Try to avoid close contact with others to minimize the spread of the germs.
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