How Supplements Benefit the Immune System

How Supplements Benefit the Immune System


The immune system defends the body from pathogens which cause disease. It is composed of innate responses, which are the first line of defense, and adaptive responses, which become engaged later. Taking the recommended amounts of specific vitamins and minerals can help maintain proper immune function. Vitamin A, vitamin D3, selenium, and zinc are a few of the supplements that can benefit the immune system. Keep reading to learn more. 

Vitamin C

Vitamin C rich fruits, vegetables and nuts

Vitamin C, which promotes the formation of healthy blood cells, is a vital vitamin and necessary antioxidant that supports immunological health.* In order to protect the body from oxidative stress, healthy levels of vitamin C support the production of healthy blood cells and antioxidant levels.* Vitamin C also works synergistically with other antioxidants to help protect cells from damage from free radicals.*

Vitamin D3

Vitamin D3 is a necessary vitamin for the health of bones, and may also help to stimulate an adequate immune response.* In order to promote the health of the immune system, vitamin D plays a role in the activation of the immune system's T lymphocytes, which are responsible for identifying and defending the body against harmful substances.*

Zinc

Foods containing zinc which benefits immunity

Zinc is a trace mineral that acts as an antioxidant to protect cells from oxidative stress and may also support cells mediating immune health.* It aids the immune system in promoting general health through increased immunity and supporting healthy blood cells throughout the body, as well as enhancing a healthy immune response.*

Selenium

Selenium is a trace mineral. In combination with the protection of cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals, selenium may help provide an optimal immunological response.*  In addition to reducing inflammation, and increasing immunity, these antioxidants contribute to lowering oxidative stress in the body.* There have been studies demonstrating a link between higher levels of selenium in the blood and an increased immunologic response.*

Quercetin

Quercetin is a plant flavonoid that acts as a natural antioxidant to protect cells from oxidative stress.* Quercetin is known for its antioxidant activity in radical scavenging and anti-allergic properties characterized by stimulation of immune system, antiviral activity, inhibition of histamine release, decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines, leukotrienes creation, and suppresses interleukin IL-4 production.

Astragalus Root Powder

Astragalus root powder contains antioxidants that helps protect cells from damage. It is an herb used for centuries in ancient traditions to protect and aid the immune system.* Astragalus contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.* Studies have also shown that astragalus has antiviral properties and can stimulate the immune system, which may help to prevent colds.*

Nature’s Lab Gold Immunity Plus is a harmonious combination of all these vitamins and minerals carefully selected to support immune system health.* This formula includes essential vitamin C and vitamin D3; quercetin and astragalus provide beneficial flavonoids.* It also includes patented forms of minerals zinc and selenium that provide enhanced absorption.* Nature’s Lab Gold Immunity Plus contains essential vitamins, botanicals, herbs and minerals for antioxidant health, immunity and general wellness.*


References

Cleveland Clinic. (2023, November 27). 5 vitamins to keep your immune system strong. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/vitamins-best-boosting-immunity

Kubala, J. (2023, February 1). 15 immune boosters. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/immune-boosting-supplements

MediLexicon International. (n.d.). Supplements for immunity: Benefits and limits. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/do-supplements-really-benefit-the-immune-system

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Office of dietary supplements - dietary supplements for immune function and infectious diseases. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/ImmuneFunction-HealthProfessional/ 

Quercetin and Its Anti-Allergic Immune Response https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6273625/ Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) Date published May 12, 2016

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