During these turbulent times it can almost feel as though we don’t have much control over anything. However here at ANC we want to focus on the things that you can control and that can be as simple as your health.
Our immune system is a specialised network of cells, nodes, tissues and organs that work together to defend us against disease and infection. During this time its more important than ever to make sure you are supporting your immune system as best as possible.
Now let’s bust some myths… do we truly want to boost our immune system? Now the short answer to this is no.
An overactive immune system is almost as harmful as an underactive immune system. Although boosting your immune system sounds enticing, the aim is to modulate and support immune system functions and responses. The immune system is precisely that – a system, not a single entity. To function well, it requires balance and harmony. We can balance the immune system by giving it the nutrients, it requires to function at its best.
To support these functions, our naturopath has compiled a list of the top vitamins and products which can help support your immune health this season.
1. Echinacea 2000 Plus Andrographis
Echinacea & Andrographis are two herbs that help modulate immune responses and functions within the body. They are traditionally used to help relieve symptoms of colds and flus, as well as maintain healthy mucous membranes of the respiratory tract.
Due to the current lockdown, we are at risk of reduced exposure to natural sunlight. Ten to fifteen minutes of sunlight exposure is required every day to help support optimal Vitamin D levels within the body.
However, UV rays are not as strong during wintertime, so it therefore becomes difficult to reach adequate levels of Vitamin D. Taking a Vitamin D supplement helps support healthy immune system function as well as bone strength and mineralisation.
3. Super C 1000
Vitamin C possess many benefits within the body. It is a powerful antioxidant that is used to relieve symptoms of the common cold and support health immune function. What most people don’t know if that Vitamin C is also essential for the nervous system. Studies have suggested Vitamin C can help reduce the levels of stress hormones in the blood.
4. Zinc Plus
Zinc is an essential nutrient and plays an important role in cell mediated immunity and is also known as a powerful antioxidant and natural anti-inflammatory. Zinc is also essential for the maturation and function of two essential cells in the immune system called T and B cells. In cases of zinc deficiency these cells can not function and can put the immune system at risk when exposed to a potential infection.
Magnesium is responsible for over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. Therefore, it is essential for your overall health and wellbeing. Stress can have many negative effects on the immune system, and it can also very easily deplete magnesium from the body. In order to help support both the immune and nervous system, it may be of benefit to take a magnesium supplement to support mild muscle tension if working from home as well as to support overall health and wellbeing.
It is also important to emphasis lifestyle factors such as eating a healthy diet, participating in regular exercise, reducing consumption of alcohol and cigarettes, getting adequate sleep and minimising stress are all key factors that for supporting immune health.
Please make sure you seek advice from your doctor or health professional to ensure that these products are the right fit for you and your health needs.
