Right now more than ever, people want to know about natural ways to boost immunity. We all know that diet, exercise, and other lifestyle choices can make or break our immune system.
But what about nutritional supplements?
Which nutraceuticals are best for boosting immunity to beat the beast?
And what supplements can you take to help prevent getting sick?
Check out this list of some of the best ways to boost your immune system and do your best to avoid getting sick. In the case of COVID-19, the leading cause of death is acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). ARDS is caused by pro-inflammatory immune cells in the respiratory tract. While these immune cells are simply doing what they are programmed to do to fight the infection in an infected person’s lungs, the inflammation can be a major problem for some people.
This is why many nutraceuticals to beat the beast include products that help to reduce or shut off the body’s inflammatory immune response.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant that is essential for the growth and repair of tissues. It also strengthens the capillaries that carry oxygen and other necessary nutrients to all parts of the body via the bloodstream. Healthy blood function is vital when your body is fighting off intruders like influenza. Studies show that vitamin C supplementation can both prevent and treat systemic infections.
Clinical trials to test the efficacy of intravenous vitamin C to treat COVID-19 are currently underway. Researchers speculate that vitamin C may speed recovery because vitamin C is not only an antioxidant, but it may also interfere with viral replication. Additionally, large doses of vitamin C may help relieve symptoms of associated acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
Zinc
Zinc is another antioxidant that boosts immunity by reducing oxidative stress on the body. Studies show that zinc also plays an important role in the function of T cells. It may help inhibit the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This is especially helpful for patients with autoimmune disorders or those at risk for cytokine storm.
Vitamin D
When it comes to immunity, vitamin D is a key player as well. Deficiency in vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin, is associated with increased autoimmunity as well as an increased susceptibility to infection.
One of the main concerns with coronavirus is airway inflammation that leads to ARDS. Human airway cells have vitamin D receptors, and when vitamin D binds to these receptors, it may actually decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines in lung tissue.
Furthermore, vitamin D3 deficiency increases susceptibility to acute viral respiratory infections, especially those caused by enveloped viruses like the coronavirus. This is likely because vitamin D3 triggers the release of peptides that destabilize the viral envelope.
Whether vitamin D can cure the flu or coronavirus or any other pathogen is not certain. However, we do know that it benefits the immune system and promotes respiratory health. This makes it unquestionably a valuable nutraceutical for immunity.
Vitamin B3 (Nicotinamide)
Vitamin B3, or niacin, is a water-soluble antioxidant that also helps regulate healthy cholesterol levels. Research demonstrates that B3 can potentially reduce lung inflammation by inhibiting the immune response of neutrophil infiltration into the lungs. Once again, niacin won’t cure coronavirus, but it can boost immunity and improve lung function to speed healing when you are sick.
Glutathione and N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC)
NAC is an important amino acid that helps the body replenish glutathione. Glutathione is a very powerful antioxidant that strengthens cells and builds the immune system. Studies show that NAC also inhibits virus replication, making this an important amino acid for fighting off viral infections. Additionally, NAC and glutathione support the respiratory system by reducing inflammation in the airways and acting as an expectorant.
Melatonin
Melatonin is currently being studied for its benefits to help treat or protect against viruses such as COVID-19. Because one of the paramount risks of this virus is inflammation in the airways, melatonin may be helpful for its anti-inflammatory effects in the body. In fact, studies show that melatonin may be effective at increasing immune function and decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines during viral infections.
Melatonin is not an antiviral drug. However, it may help reduce the severity of symptoms and promote faster healing to help combat viral infections like COVID-19.
Curcumin
Curcumin is the primary active ingredient in turmeric. It has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. For centuries, many cultures have used Curcumin and turmeric as a spice in curries as well as for medicinal purposes. When it comes to the COVID-19 virus, Curcumin interferes with viral cellular processes and prevents viral replication.
Epigallocatechin Gallate (ECCG) Found in Green Tea
GCG is a type of catechin found in green tea. This compound has promise for combatting the influenza virus as well as other types of viruses, including coronaviruses. Studies show that ECGC inhibits the binding of a key viral protein to cell–surface molecules. It also destroys virus particles by binding to the surface of the viral envelope and inhibiting the transcription of the virus. So you may want to add a cup or two of green tea to your daily regimen.
Resveratrol
Resveratrol is an antioxidant polyphenol found in certain plants, such as red grape skins. Many people use it for its proclaimed anti-aging benefits. But that glass of wine may not just slow down oxidative stress and the aging process, it also benefits the immune system. A recent study showed that resveratrol significantly inhibited MERS-CoV infection and prolonged cellular survival after virus infection. Additionally, the cells treated with resveratrol had better survival rates after infection with the COVID virus. You can get some resveratrol from red wine, or take it in a supplement.
The Choice is Yours
This article simply shares some research about emerging nutraceuticals that may help beat the beast. Certainly, a person would not need to take every supplement in this list.
Read through them and discern whether or not you think you may benefit from any of the above treatments. And remember, the best way to protect yourself is by following simple guidelines.
We hope you have found this helpful, if you have any other questions please feel free to contact us!
Restoration Wellness, LLC 