Immune Boosting Supplements

We can find so much to be grateful for every day, but one thing that always tops our lists: our health. Never to be taken for granted, we know that prioritizing our physical health is a foundational element for finding happiness and balance in the rest of our lives.

Aside from the most common supplements, like Vitamin C and Vitamin D, we pulled together a few other supplements and foods we use to arm our immune systems.

Supplements

Zinc

Give your body a boost with zinc. Supporting the body’s natural resistance, zinc is also involved in the majority of metabolic processes in the human body, including carbohydrate metabolism, utilization of glucose and insulin production. It’s essential for the formation of the bone matrix, as well as collagen synthesis.  We like liquid zinc drops the best, but it’s also present in most multivitamin and mineral supplements.

Probiotics

Probiotics are super important for gut health, as the gut affects our whole body system. Fermented foods like yogurt / Kefir, sauerkraut and kombucha as well as the Japanese drink Amazake contain probiotics, but they are also available as supplements.  Choose those formulated with vitamins and zinc and those that are guaranteed live and active for best absorption.

Medicinal Mushrooms

Have you ever tried medicinal mushrooms? You won’t find them in the produce aisle. These powerful forms of fungi are best ingested in powder form. Different species of mushrooms provide various benefits; you can find a mix to get the most out of your supplement, but the Turkey Tail mushroom is known to help boost your immune system. Our favorite brand is Host Defense.

Echinacea

This herbal supplement comes from the daisy family and is used most often to combat flu season and the common cold. Available in tablet form or as a syrup.  Our favorites are the Elderberry Syrups from Nature’s Way or Gaia Herbs.

Astragalus

This herb is commonly used in Chinese medicine to help reduce nausea, vomiting, and bone marrow suppression. Some use it to help reduce side effects of chemotherapy.

Vitamin B

We know the superstar supplements Vitamin C and D are imperative for a high-functioning immune system, but Vitamin B can help, too. Go for a Vitamin B Complex for a variety of benefits, from supporting your immune system to your metabolism and healthy red blood cell production. Vitamin B6 supports protein metabolism, and plays a key role in immune function.

Sleep Supplements

There are many out there, but we like sleepy time tea from Celestial Seasonings, Pukka Night Time, as well as Traditional Medicinals Nighty Night Tea because they provide a natural way to promote calm relaxation and a full night's sleep.

Foods

Red Bell Peppers

Did you know red bell peppers pack more Vitamin C than citrus fruits? We enjoy our bell peppers with a side of hummus or in salads. Toss it into a stir fry with garlic, ginger, and broccoli for a supercharged immune-boosting meal.

Dried tart cherries

Early studies have found eating dried cherries or drinking cherry juice can help our upper respiratory system reduce inflammation and speed up recovery.