How to Boost Your Immune System for Better Health

Your immune system is an incredible, self-learning machine. It keeps a record of every microbe invader that it has ever defeated in your body, to make it faster and more efficient at taking them down should in case they appear again. Some invaders, like cold or flu viruses, will be defeated again and again. Our immune system’s powerful memory means these viruses must adapt to sneak past the defenses again.

Your immune system fights hard to help you battle cold and flu viruses, and this is why you often feel run down when you catch one. It calls in all the resources it can from other parts of your body to help. This includes asking your lungs to produce more phlegm to help you cough out foreign particles, raising your body temperature to kill off microbes, and bringing in support from other areas that will help to fight the virus. It’s quite a hard fight, so your immune system needs all the help it can get!

What vitamins are best for energy and immune function?

We know that the winter months can be harsh, and our immune systems need all the help they can get. Vitamin C and Vitamin D are two essential elements that you should consider taking as supplements to give your body some extra support. Not only do these vitamins have properties that make them ideal for fighting off colds and the flu on a daily basis, but both also offer specific additional benefits that make them especially beneficial during the colder winter season (and even better together).

The Benefits of Vitamin C and Vitamin D – together

Did you know that our bodies can’t produce Vitamin C [LINK] on their own and therefore must get it from our diet and/or supplements? Not only that, the human body eliminates unused vitamin C, making it difficult to maintain normal concentrations for long periods of time. To maintain adequate levels, it’s essential to consume vitamin C regularly, and in a highly absorbable form.¹

And, Did you know that over one-third of Australian adults suffer from Vitamin D [LINK] deficiency? This crucial vitamin is essential for bone growth and maintenance, as well as supporting the immune and nervous systems and muscle function. Vitamin D is especially recommended in autumn and winter, as well as for those who have insufficient exposure to the sun, are staying or working indoors, and use cosmetics with UV filters.²

How else can I help my immune system?

1. Immune Boosting Foods

Like any good fighting force, your immune system needs good fuel to support its combat abilities. Eating a wide range of fruits and vegetables can help provide your immune system with nutrients it needs (and there are a lot!). Vitamins A, C, D, E, B2, B6 and B12, folic acid, beta carotene, iron, selenium, and zinc have all been noted as most needed to sustain your immune system3.

2. Avoid Sugary Drinks

Drinking sugary solutions has been shown to make your immune soldiers slow down. Studies have shown that by drinking 75-100 grams of a sugar-filled drink like soft drink (it’s easier to get to this amount than you think!) can suppress your immune system for up to 5 hours 4. Staying clear of processed sugars will help keep your system running at full speed.

3. Prioritize Sleep

Everyone needs good rest to recharge too! Make sure you are getting adequate sleep, both your immune system and the rest of your body will thank you.

Three quick tips to boost your immune system in the morning

Looking for a quick way to wake up during these dark and cold winter mornings? Here are 3 ways you can boost your energy and feel more invigorated in 10 minutes (or less)!

1. Take a cool shower
2. Go outside to exercise and enjoy the fresh air
3. Stretch to increase your blood circulation

How can your local IPA Pharmacist help?

With so many supplement options out there, we know that it can be overwhelming to choose the right product for you. That’s why our knowledgeable Pharmacy teams are here to guide you in picking the perfect vitamin C and D supplements catered to your individual needs. Whether you’re looking for an immunity boost or improving bone health, we’ve got you covered.

References:

1. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-hProfessional/
2. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/vitamin-d-deficiency
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6212925/#:~:text=Micronutrients%20have%20vital%20roles%20throughout,%2C%20and%20zinc%20%5B4%5D.
4. https://academic.oup.com/ajcn/article-abstract/26/11/1180/4732762

Important Information

The information provided on this website is shared in good faith for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of any specific treatment, product, or service, nor is it a substitute for professional advice. Always consult with qualified professionals regarding matters related to your health, wellbeing, or other personal concerns. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information, we cannot accept responsibility for any injury, loss, damage, or consequences resulting from its use.