The 5 Best Immune Support Supplements for the Cold and Flu Season
The cold and flu season is here and you know what that means: time to stock up on your favorite supplements. Supplements can be a double-edged sword when it comes to fighting off viruses. On one hand, they can give you an edge when it comes to boosting your immune system. On the other hand, they can also expose you to harmful chemicals that could upset your system.
These are some of the best immune support supplements to keep your body strong and free of viruses. An immune support supplement can be found in everything from nutritional supplements to natural remedies. Before diving in, it’s important to understand what they are and why they’re so beneficial.
1. Vitamin D3
Vitamin D is more than just a “fat-soluble” vitamin. It plays a vital role in regulating your immune system. It’s actually the only known “anti-viral” vitamin. It’s been around for a long time, yet it’s one of the few nutrients that the medical community is just now discovering the benefits of. What’s so special about vitamin D3? It fights off the common cold and flu by targeting your immune cells. Vitamin D3 keeps your immune cells strong by targeting the cells’ DNA. It can also help alleviate symptoms of the common cold and flu such as coughing, sore throat, and congestion. It’s also been shown to shorten the duration of a cold by up to two days compared to those who don’t take vitamin D. Vitamin D3 is found in sun exposure or through dietary supplements. It can be found in Cod Liver Oil, fatty fish, and eggs.
2. Fermented cod liver oil
Yes, fish oil supplements can be great for many things, but they aren’t effective when it comes to fighting off the common cold and flu. Cod Liver Oil is a traditional cold and flu remedy that’s been around for centuries because of its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. It contains all the essential fatty acids that your body needs to stay strong, healthy, and virus-free. It ensures your immune cells are strong and healthy by killing off the viruses and bacteria that cause cold and flu. It can also help alleviate symptoms such as coughing and congestion. Fish oil supplements are great for heart health, but they are not effective for fighting off viruses. Cod Liver Oil is easily accessible, cheap, and comes in many flavors. It’s also one of the few supplements you can drink during pregnancy as it’s safe for all stages of pregnancy.
3. Omega-3 fatty acids
The omega 3 fatty acids found in fish oil can feel great for your heart, but they’re completely ineffective against viruses. What’s so special about omega-3s? They are anti-inflammatory fatty acids. This means they will reduce the swelling from an allergic reaction or from a virus. They can also ease your breathing by reducing mucus in your lungs. This is especially good for those who suffer from asthma and allergies. Omega-3s are great for your immune system and can help clear up your symptoms faster than using over-the-counter anti-viral medicines.
It’s important to note that omega-3s are found in fatty fish, but some grocery stores and restaurants have it in their oils. You don’t need a supplement for this. However, it’s important to keep in mind that fish is high in mercury. Although it’s low in omega-3s, it’s still dangerous to take it in excess. Instead, choose the high-quality fish that are low in mercury and harmful toxins.
4. Echinacea
Echinacea is a plant that’s been used by Native Americans and traditional herbalists for centuries to fight off viruses. It’s known for its powerful anti-viral properties that can reduce your symptoms within two days. It also has antibiotic properties that will prevent you from getting sick in the first place by boosting your immune system. Most importantly, echinacea is safe for all ages because it’s non-habit-forming. You don’t have to worry about the harmful side effects from taking it long-term.
Echinacea is effective against the common cold and flu because it helps your immune system fight off the viruses and bacteria that cause these illnesses. It can help with symptoms such as coughing, runny nose, sore throat, and headaches.
5. Turmeric
Turmeric is a yellow spice that’s been used in many cultures for centuries for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is one of the most commonly used herbs in the world for treating inflammatory diseases such as arthritis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and more.
It’s also been found to be an effective drug against the common cold and flu. It’s a potent anti-inflammatory that fights off viruses and bacteria that cause these illnesses. It can also reduce the inflammation in your body and ease your breathing while boosting your immune system. It’s also one of the few supplements that you can eat while on a low-carb diet.
6. Grapefruit seed extract
Grapefruit seed extract is a potent anti-viral and anti-bacterial agent. It’s a potent treatment that’s used in many pharmaceutical products. It can kill off viruses and bacteria that cause cold and flu. It’s also great for the stomach due to its anti-acid properties. It will stop your stomach from producing excess stomach acid which is what’s causing you to cough and have a sore throat. It will also reduce your phlegm by making your breathing easier.
7. Cold-buster herbal blend
This blend will help to reduce your symptoms including Coughing, Sore throat, and Sneezing. It’s packed with adaptogenic herbs such as: Echinacea, elderberry, and ginger. They will help to boost your immune system and clear up your symptoms faster. It’s a great tasting blend that’s made with no artificial sweeteners or flavors.