Supercharge your immunity this winter with these top supplements ✨
Your body's fighting wars you can't see. That security system? It's your immune system - battling viruses, bacteria, and other invaders day and night.
Food comes first. But sometimes, your defence needs reinforcements. Quality supplements can arm your immune cells for battle, especially when life gets messy.
They help to fill nutritional gaps and reduce the frequency with which you catch seasonal bugs. Plus, some can improve your tiredness and fatigue levels.
Join us below to discover the best immunity boosters.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A plays a vital role in maintaining the health of your skin and mucous membranes, which form your body's first line of defence against pathogens. Also supports the production and function of white blood cells, helping your immune system target potential threats.
Vitamin B12
B12 is crucial for producing healthy red blood cells and maintaining your nervous system. It supports immune cell development and helps regulate immune function. Since B12 is mainly found in animal products, supplementation is most important for vegetarians and vegans.
Vitamin B6
B6 is essential for creating antibodies and maintaining lymphatic tissue, stimulating the biochemical reactions needed for immune function. Being deficient in B6 can compromise antibody production and weaken immune defences.
Vitamin B Complex
Your energy levels rely heavily on B vitamins. They help activate your cellular protection systems and maintain steady vitality. When you're low on B vitamins, fatigue can set in quickly. Take supplements to maintain consistent energy.
Zinc with Copper
Zinc is crucial in your body's protective responses, while copper ensures optimal absorption and effectiveness. When taking zinc, many people recover more quickly from colds, particularly at the first sign of symptoms.
Folic Acid
Folic acid is the synthetic version of folate. It supports your body's cellular regeneration process. Without adequate levels, your protective responses may become sluggish. Regular intake helps maintain peak cellular function, which is crucial for managing stress.
Iron
Iron is an essential carrier of oxygen throughout the body. Without sufficient levels, fatigue can become a constant companion. A simple iron supplement can help maintain vitality and resilience against everyday challenges.
Vitamin C
This classic nutrient helps maintain your body's natural protective barriers. It supports cellular health while promoting natural resilience. Regular supplementation proves especially beneficial during periods of physical activity or stress.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D helps activate immune cells called T cells and supports the production of antimicrobial proteins. When absorbed through sunlight or diet, it enhances your body's natural defences against pathogens.
Magnesium
Magnesium supports physical and mental balance while promoting cellular energy production and reducing fatigue. Regular intake will help ensure your body can respond effectively to daily challenges.
Selenium
Selenium helps your body fight and control inflammation. You get it from foods grown in selenium-rich soil, but here's the catch: if the soil is low in selenium, the foods grown there don’t have much of it, making supplementation necessary for a top-up.
Who should use supplements?
Your immune system may need extra support if you're:
· Following a restricted diet
· Over 60, with reduced nutrient absorption
· Working night shifts (affects vitamin D levels)
· An athlete training intensively
· Under high stress or recovering from illness
· Taking medications that deplete nutrients
· Prone to frequent infections
But the truth is anyone can take supplements to enhance immunity – the only exception is people with medical conditions that make supplements unsuitable.
Always check with your doctor before starting supplements, especially if you're pregnant, taking medications, or have health conditions.
Summing up
B vitamins and vitamins A, C, and D are the best for immunity but don’t discount minerals like zinc, copper, and magnesium – these create enzyme reactions in your body and help to form and maintain immune cells and signals.
The truth is that a balanced diet, managing stress, getting adequate exercise, and supplementing are immunity essentials. Work on creating the right balance and see where it takes your health. You should feel much better.