Maintaining a robust immune system is a top priority. From keeping a busy work schedule to traveling through the holiday season, there are many reasons to pay attention to the immune system and ensure it is ready for the various assaults it will face. A balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle are your first line of defense.
Additionally, supporting and enhancing immune function has gained significant attention. Research has shed light on the benefits of supplementation and its potential to fortify the body’s defense mechanisms and promote overall wellness. Here are the three main reasons I recommend patients add supplementation to their health playbook.
1. Filling Nutritional Gaps:
Even with a well-rounded diet, it can be challenging to acquire all essential vitamins and minerals solely from food sources. Supplementation is a convenient and reliable way to bridge nutritional gaps, ensuring the body receives an adequate supply of vital nutrients crucial for immune health, such as vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, and selenium.
2. Strengthening Immune Responses:
Certain supplements have exhibited the capacity to strengthen immune responses, empowering the body to combat pathogens effectively. Vitamin C, for instance, is renowned for its antioxidant properties and its role in supporting the production and function of immune cells. Zinc, on the other hand, has been linked to improved immune cell function and a more robust immune response. EGCG, a polyphenol abundant in green tea, has shown promise in bolstering the immune system by enhancing the activity of immune cells and promoting the production of regulatory molecules that help modulate the immune response. Studies suggest that EGCG may exert immunomodulatory effects, potentially contributing to improved defense against pathogens and a more resilient immune system.1
3. Alleviating Stress:
Prolonged stress can significantly compromise the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections. Adrenal glandular support has been suggested to play a vital role in bolstering the immune system by aiding in the regulation of the body’s stress response and promoting optimal adrenal function.2 Moreover, research highlights the interconnected relationship between adrenal health and immune function, underscoring the importance of maintaining a balanced adrenal system for robust immune responses.
While no single supplement can single-handedly boost immune function, the cumulative effect of a well-designed supplementation plan, combined with a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle, can significantly contribute to fortifying the body’s natural defenses. With a growing body of research supporting the role of supplementation in bolstering immune health, integrating these beneficial aids into our daily routines can pave the way for a stronger, more resilient immune system and a healthier future.
Visit our website to learn how Dr. Carla supports her clients with individualized nutrition and supplements plans. You can also find her seasonal recommendations for basic immune system support.
1 Khan N, Mukhtar H. Tea polyphenols in promotion of human health. Nutrients. 2018;11(1):39. doi:10.3390/nu11010039
2 Wilson, J. L. (2002). Adrenal Fatigue: The 21st Century Stress Syndrome. Smart Publications.
3 Arlt, W., & Stewart, P. M. (2005). Adrenal corticosteroid biosynthesis, metabolism, and action in health and disease. Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics, 34(2), 293-313