Cold and flu season is upon us and it’s a good time to think about strengthening your immune system. Winter can bring a wave of contagious illnesses or allergies that make the immune system more vulnerable than usual. Occasionally, a weakened immune system is caused by illness, lifestyle habits, or environmental factors.
Since prevention is always preferable to cure, it makes sense to support the immune system to guard against assaults, from the common cold to more serious illnesses. As physicians, our patients often ask us how they can strengthen their immune systems. The first line of defense is a healthy lifestyle:
- Eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains—and low in saturated fats.
- Moderate alcohol intake.
- Exercise regularly (think moderate levels rather than training for a marathon).
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Get plenty of sleep.
- De-stress your life.
- Wash your hands frequently.
- Stop smoking.
- Schedule routine health screening tests and exams for your age group and risk category.
Immune system supplements, which provide a powerful combination of herbs and nutrients to support the body’s natural defense system, are also worth considering. Below are my top 10 immune boosting supplements that may kick colds, flu and/or boost your immune system. Please check with your physician or stop by the NaturoMedica clinic to discuss which particular supplement(s) may meet your needs.
PhytoImmune (Biogenesis):
- Blend of vitamins and standardized herbal extracts to support the immune system during times of stress and travel.
- Acts as a tonic to reduce the immune system’s susceptibility to infection.
ParaBiotic Plus (Biogenesis):
- Antimicrobial action with concentrated oils and herbal extracts of berberine, thyme, wormwood, and olive leaf.
- Protective to both respiratory and gastrointestinal systems.
Viracon (Vital Nutrients):
- Powerful combination of herbal extracts that have shown immune enhancing antiviral activity in scientific studies.
- Helps support and maintain normal respiratory function.
Esberitox (Integrative Therapeutics):
- Combines two types of Echinacea with two additional immune-enhancing herbs in a tasty and convenient chewable.
- More than 30 clinical trials showing efficacy.
- Top-selling remedy in Europe.
- Designed to support immune defenses proactively or as needed seasonally.
ViraClear EPs 7630 (Integrative Therapeutics):
- Cherry flavored, alcohol-free syrup that is a homeopathic remedy from the South African Pelargonium sidoides plant.
- Used to treat cough, sore throat, congestion, sinusitis, and other respiratory tract infections.
- Shortens the duration of upper respiratory tract infections and reduces severity of infections.
Sambucus – Black Elderberry Syrup (Integrative Therapeutics):
- Pleasant tasting syrup of Elderberry, a natural antiviral, which is great for kids and adults alike (2 years and older).
- For centuries, the berries of the European black elder have been traditionally used as a winter remedy.
- Recent studies have proven its efficacy in clinical trials.
Fruit Anthocyanins (Natural Health):
- Concentrated organic liquid syrup of dark berries including Elderberry, which has both antiviral and immune boosting effects.
- Elderberry has shown to be active against both Influenza A and B.
Mycoferon (Metagenics):
- Unique formula that combines live mycelia and fruiting stages of seven specially cultivated medicinal mushrooms.
- Medicinal mushrooms have a long history of traditional use as invigorating immune tonics and are currently being studied for immune boosting properties in cancer and HIV patients.
Viracid (OrthoMolecular):
- Synergistic blend of vitamins, nutrients and botanicals with zinc to keep the immune system functioning at optimal level.
- Provides immediate assistance with immune challenges and promotes healthy inflammatory balance.
Probiotics (Pharmax, ITI & Metagenics):
- Strains of “friendly” bacteria that increase antibody production and help prevent respiratory tract infections.
- In particular, studies show that children who take probiotics get fewer and less severe respiratory tract infections and are at lower risk of developing flu-like symptoms.
If you are considering taking any of these supplements, please stop by our clinic or make an appointment with one of our physicians to discuss safety, dosages and and/or individual recommendations. As always, I recommend you seek the advice of a healthcare provider before beginning any new regimen.
Dr. Tammy McInnis practices at the NaturoMedica clinic at Grand Ridge Plaza in Issaquah Highlands, a full-service naturopathic medical clinic that is home to seven licensed Naturopathic Physicians. The clinic offers naturopathic healthcare, acupuncture and IV (intravenous) therapy. NaturoMedica doctors can provide primary care or work with your established physician to address health concerns. The clinic has a retail dispensary, which is open to the public and stocks vitamins, supplements and healthcare products. NaturoMedica is located at 1220 10th Ave NE. To learn more, call (425) 557-8900 or www.naturomedica.com.
Directions and Parking at Grand Ridge Plaza: From I-90, take Exit 18 and follow E Sunset Way/Highlands Drive toward Issaquah Highlands. Continue on Highlands Drive for about half a mile to arrive at Grand Ridge Plaza. The shopping center offers plenty of free parking.
