Supplements to Boost Your Immune System

Vitamins C, D, A, E, and Zinc have shown to be effective in improving outcomes for patients with COVID-19. Additional supplements such as echinacea and cat’s claw are suggested to help fight off infections and boost immune function overall.

Engaging in primary care is a great way to prevent the onset of chronic disease, while urgent care can help manage sudden illness and injury. With Mira, members have access to in-person urgent care, virtual urgent care, virtual primary care, and telebehavioral health. A membership with Mira is as low as $25 per month. Sign up today and take control of your health!

Best Supplements to Boost Your Immune System

COVID-19 affects the immune system by producing a systemic inflammatory response, causing symptoms such as fever, cough, fatigue, pneumonia, and other respiratory challenges. Nutrition is a crucial determinant of good health, and vitamins such as vitamin C, D, E, omega-3s, zinc, and selenium have benefits to help your body fight off infectious diseases.

Vitamins and minerals can be found in several foods, but also purchased as supplements. Supplements can be found at most pharmacies, retail grocery stores, and natural food stores. There are no age restrictions on buying supplements, and they are usually low-cost. 

Zinc 

Alleviating zinc deficiency with supplements reduces the risk of mortality from infectious diseases. The immune defense system relies on two major groups of cells, innate and adaptive immune cells, which both depend on zinc. Our innate immune system is the first line of defense to prevent the spread and movement of foreign pathogens throughout the body. Our second line of defense is the adaptive immune system, also called our acquired immune system, which specifically targets the pathogen. 

Zinc is an essential nutrient a zinc deficiency can cause inflammation, potentially damaging other tissues. According to the MayoClinic, the recommended daily amount of zinc is 8 milligrams (mg) for women and 11mg for men daily. Some food sources of zinc include: 

• Oysters
• Lobster
• Beef
• Chicken
• Baked beans
• Pumpkin seeds
• Cashews
• Chickpeas
• Oatmeal
• Peas