There are a few immune system supplements that may help you avoid getting sick during cold and flu season.
Vitamin C Supplements
Vitamin C is important to keep your immune system in good health. But if you just get it in supplement form, then you might miss out on some of the healthy fiber, nutrients, and other antioxidants that you can only get from eating fruits and vegetables. There is really not any evidence that proves the theory that taking excessive quantities of vitamin C can help prevent or reduce cold or flu symptoms. But you can certainly keep dietary supplements on hand for those days when your diet doesn’t include very many fruits and vegetables.
Zinc Supplements
Zinc is important to maintain a healthy immune system and this mineral can be found as a natural over-the-counter treatment for the common cold. Some studies show that if you take a zinc supplement within the first 24 hours your cold starts, it could reduce cold symptoms. But other studies don’t show much benefit from the supplement. Zinc taken in the form of a nasal gel has been indicated in a few studies to contribute to a loss in the olfactory sense (smell) in certain individuals. Until more is known you should take precaution. A lot of sore throat lozenges contain zinc as an ingredient.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a dietary supplement that can be used to help prevent or lessen the timeframe of the common cold. Studies have mixed results, but some reports do show that taking an echinacea supplement could be effective. The flowers of the echinacea purpura plant are probably the most effective form of echinacea.
Probiotics
Probiotics are bacteria that help maintain digestive tract health and possibly the immune system as well. Probiotics are found as an ingredient in dietary supplements or in yogurt and other types of food.
Research indicates that probiotics may be helpful in lessening the symptoms and timeframe of the common cold.
An immune system supplement can definitely be useful for your immune system. But if you want to stay healthy and help lessen the risk of getting a cold or the flu, make sure to eat a good diet full of fruits and vegetables and get your exercise and rest every night. You can also lower your chances of getting the flu by getting a flu shot once flu season starts.
Related posts: