Vitamins Boost Your Immune Function

When faced with uncertainty related to disease risk, how do you respond? Most of us follow recommendations to wash our hands and isolate from others and wear face masks when in public. Is that enough? I believe you need vitamins to boost your immune function.

Washing your hands is very effective against bacteria and viruses. You don’t need antibacterial soap – the traditional form will work quite well. In fact, I don’t recommend using a lot of antibacterial products because they destroy the microbiome on your skin. That microbiome is part of your protective barrier, and exposure to your environment informs your immune system.

There are a wide variety of vitamins and nutrients we draw from our food. Some of these are key for boosting the immune system. Vitamins boost your immune function, namely Vitamins A, C, D and Zinc.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is known to benefit the eyes and skin, as well as for its anti-inflammatory properties and support of the immune system. This vitamin protects epithelial tissues in the body, and is especially good for organs with mucosal linings – the mouth, lungs, the nasal passages and eyes. These are particularly vulnerable to invasion from viruses. Vitamin A that comes from animal sources does not have to be converted by your body to use it – consider grass-fed beef liver or wild-caught salmon for a natural source.

Vitamin C

A very potent anti-oxidant, Vitamin C counters free radicals which damage the growth, development and survival of the cells in the body. This vitamin is beneficial against both bacterial and viral infection. Perhaps the broad benefit is why Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, berries and green vegetables. When taking a supplement, look for a form that has Bioflavonoids to enhance the action of the Vitamin C.

Vitamin D

Becoming more recognized for its value to many systems in the body, Vitamin D regulates the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, which are vital for maintaining bones and teeth. More studies are now showing that this valuable vitamin is also vital for a robust immune system and can effectively counter depression. You can check your Vitamin D levels in your annual lab work – ask your doctor.

Zinc

This mineral may come at the end of an alphabetic listing of nutrients, but it is at the top of the list for promoting tissue healing in the body. Zinc should be the 2nd most prominent trace element in your body behind iron, but many experience zinc deficiency. This is often the case with those eating a plant-based diet, or experiencing stomach acid or digestive issues. Without a good level of zinc, proper immune function is limited, as is hormone production.

Your body requires a lot of building blocks in the form of vitamins, minerals and trace elements to fuels proper function. This requires a variety of foods in different colors, and good digestion to break it all down.

Having access to proper nutrients is just one aspect of supporting your body for better immune function. I will be teaching about several areas of life habits that influence your immune system. Join others who have decided they need to be proactive in pursuing wellness and learn how to shift toward stronger immunity and better quality of life. Visit www.ImmuneBoostWithKelly.com to learn more about the class.