Top Nutrients to Support Your Immune System:

1. Zinc: a key mineral that supports wound healing and the formation of T cells that are directly involved in the cell-mediated immune response. Depending on the individual need,15 – 45mgof daily intake is needed. Food sources include pumpkin seeds,
2. Vitamin D: affects nearly all your body’s cells, including those in the immune system. It is now better understood to act more like a hormone than a vitamin. Optimal levels, especially when disease states are present (MS, Parkinson’s) are now being suggested at5-10,000 IU. During the winter months, however, levels tend to drop in most people (depending on latitude) because they no longer create it from exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Vitamin D receptors are expressed on immune cells (B cells and T cells)and growing evidence is finding that the hormone-like vitamin plays a key role in balancing immune response.
3. Vitamin C + bioflavonoids: acts on the innate immune system to trigger the optimal action of macrophages that are constantly on patrol in our system. Along with guinea pigs and other non-human primates, humans are not able to produce vitamin C. Instead, we rely on the foods we consume such as kiwi, bell peppers, and citrus fruits. Scientists are speaking up about the sub optimal recommended daily allowance (RDA) of vitamin C, saying that it should be increased to 200 milligrams per day to ensure tissue and cell saturation and promote better overall long-term health (9). This is more than double the current recommendation of 75 milligrams per day for women and 90milligrams per day for men. Researchers argue that the current RDA levels are based on the prevention of vitamin C deficiency or the disease, scurvy. However, the present recommended level may not be adequate for people to reap the powerful antioxidant benefits of vitamin C that can support the body’s immune system.
4. Vitamin A: is a fat soluble vitamin that is also in a water soluble form as Beta Carotene. It is involved in immune function by supporting the growth and distribution of T-cells which a specialized white blood cell of the adaptive immune system.
5. Medicinal Mushrooms: these are a class of mushrooms known for their health-promoting properties. Reishi, just one of these types of mushrooms is commonly consumed in Japan as either a tea or powder and reputed to increase youthful vigor and vitality. Multiple studies have also shown that Reishi mushroom supports the function of the immune system and benefits overall health. Lion’s Mane, Chaga, Cordyceps Poria and Turkey Tails are others that fit into this category.

Check These Lifestyle Habits to Support Your Immune System!