Supplements for Immune System

Core Micronutrients

Certain micronutrients are recognized as fundamental for immune system function, acting as essential building blocks. Addressing deficiencies in these areas can significantly improve immune competence.

Vitamin D3

Vitamin D, specifically its active form, functions as a steroid hormone with profound effects on your immune system. Its receptors are found on various immune cells, including B cells, T cells, and macrophages. This allows vitamin D to act locally within your body, modulating both your innate and adaptive immune responses. A significant body of evidence links vitamin D deficiency to increased susceptibility to infections. Mechanistically, vitamin D enhances innate antimicrobial responses and influences adaptive immunity. This dual role in both innate and adaptive immunity underscores its critical importance beyond just bone health.

Olive Leaf Capsules

Olive leaf extract (OLE) contains oleuropein, a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory effects. OLE supports immune function by reducing oxidative stress and promoting a balanced immune response. In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, it can directly target pathogens like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. In studies, OLE has been shown to activate T helper cells and enhance the production of interferon (IFN)-γ, which may reinforce anti-tumor activity.

Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Fermented Foods

A healthy gut microbiome is the foundation of a strong immune system. We prioritize probiotics with strains that are specifically researched for their ability to support immune function. Incorporating fermented foods and fiber-rich prebiotics from sources like garlic and oats supports a diverse and balanced gut microbiome, which is crucial for immune regulation and managing inflammation.

Vitamin K2

Vitamin K2 plays a crucial synergistic role with Vitamin D3, particularly in calcium metabolism, which indirectly supports overall systemic health and, by extension, immune resilience. While Vitamin D3 enhances the absorption of calcium from the digestive tract, Vitamin K2 is essential for directing this absorbed calcium to its proper destinations, primarily bones and teeth. This function prevents its harmful deposition in soft tissues like arteries and kidneys. This systemic benefit of preventing inappropriate calcification and supporting cardiovascular health contributes to a healthier overall physiological environment, indirectly supporting immune function by reducing chronic inflammation and improving cellular health. For optimal absorption and effectiveness, Vitamin D3 and K2 supplements should be taken with a meal containing healthy fats.

Zinc

Zinc is an indispensable micronutrient found throughout the body, playing a vital role in over 300 enzymatic reactions. It is crucial for the proper functioning of the immune system, metabolism, and wound healing. Deficiency in zinc is strongly associated with increased susceptibility to infections. Research indicates that zinc supplements can shorten the duration of the common cold if taken within 24 hours of symptom onset. A critical aspect of zinc supplementation is its intricate relationship with copper. An imbalance in one can directly affect the other, and excess zinc can impair immune function by inhibiting copper-dependent enzymes. Maintaining a proper zinc/copper ratio is essential for overall wellness.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an essential micronutrient with potent antioxidant properties and a significant role in immune defense. It supports the integrity of epithelial barriers, which act as the body’s first line of defense against pathogens. It also enhances the function of immune cells and is necessary for the clearance of spent neutrophils from infection sites. Deficiency leads to impaired immunity and a higher susceptibility to infections. For established infections, significantly higher doses may be required. It’s important to note that a balanced diet providing adequate vitamin C positively affects the immune system, but available data generally do not support the theory that high-dose oral vitamin C supplements significantly decrease the risk of respiratory infections in a well-nourished general population.

Liposomal Vitamin C

Liposomal vitamin C is a newer formulation that has gained attention for its potentially enhanced bioavailability and effectiveness compared to traditional ascorbic acid. Vitamin C is water-soluble, and its absorption is limited, with excess quickly excreted. Liposomal encapsulation involves enclosing vitamin C within phospholipid membranes, which protects it from degradation in the digestive tract and facilitates its absorption and cellular uptake. Clinical studies have demonstrated that this leads to significantly higher blood plasma levels of vitamin C.

Magnesium

Magnesium is an undeniable powerhouse mineral, acting as a cofactor in over 600 enzymatic reactions. It plays a pivotal and essential role in optimal immune function and the regulation of inflammation. It is crucial for the activation of T cells, which are critical for combating cancer cells and infectious agents. Magnesium is also critically important as a cofactor for the enzymes responsible for metabolizing and activating Vitamin D into its usable form. This interconnectedness highlights magnesium’s foundational importance for both individual physiological processes and the synergistic function of other vital nutrients in maintaining overall health and immune resilience.

N-acetylcysteine (NAC)

NAC is primarily valued for its role as a precursor to glutathione, one of the body’s most powerful antioxidants. It helps neutralize free radicals that can damage cells and tissues, thereby supporting the body’s natural immune system. In the respiratory system, NAC acts as both an antioxidant and an expectorant, loosening mucus in air passageways. It also helps replenish glutathione levels in the lungs and reduces inflammation. Test-tube studies suggest NAC may inhibit the flu virus from replicating, and a six-month study indicated fewer flu symptoms in individuals taking NAC.

Garlic

Garlic has a long history of traditional use for health benefits. Its compounds are attributed with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial capacities. Garlic can maintain immune system homeostasis by positively affecting immune cells. Its anti-inflammatory activity involves reducing the production of pro-inflammatory mediators. Garlic extracts have demonstrated broad-spectrum antimicrobial effects against various bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

Medicinal Mushrooms

Medicinal mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional medicine systems. They contain various bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides (like beta-glucans), triterpenes, and other phytochemicals, which are believed to interact with immune cells.

Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor)

This mushroom contains PSP and PSK, which have been studied for their immunomodulatory and potential anti-cancer effects. PSK and PSP are considered prebiotics, capable of modulating the gut microbiome, which is intrinsically linked to immune health.

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) 

A mainstay of traditional Chinese medicine, Reishi is reputed for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-stabilizing properties. Test-tube studies indicate Reishi can affect genes in white blood cells and alter inflammation pathways, potentially managing the function of T lymphocyte cells.

Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris)

This fungus is believed to improve immunity by stimulating immune cells and specific chemicals. In test-tube and animal studies, Cordyceps has shown potential to inhibit the growth of various cancer cells and exert anti-inflammatory effects. It is important to note that Cordyceps might cause the immune system to become more active, which could increase symptoms of autoimmune diseases.

Black Seed Oil (Nigella sativa)

Black seed oil has a long history of traditional use as both food and medicine. Scientific investigations suggest that it may possess effects that help modulate the immune system, fight cancer, and reduce swelling. Its active constituent, thymoquinone (TQ), and other components have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. Evidence indicates that taking black seed oil daily may improve allergy symptoms in people with hay fever. It is generally considered possibly safe for up to 3 months in larger amounts, but can cause allergic rashes in some individuals and may interact with immunosuppressants.

Quercetin

Quercetin is a natural flavonoid compound widely found in vegetables, fruits, and nuts. It is known for its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. In vitro and animal models have shown that quercetin can inhibit oxidative stress and reduce inflammatory cytokine levels. Its immunomodulatory effects include enhancing the activity of immune cells such as T cells and natural killer (NK) cells. A significant challenge for quercetin’s clinical application is its low bioavailability. The overall evidence for quercetin acting as a direct “immune booster” in humans still requires further verification for broad application.

Polyphenols

These powerful plant compounds act as antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, and prebiotics. They nurture the beneficial bacteria in your gut, contributing to your overall health and well-being.