Supplements for Immune Health.

Written By Klayr Hunter

COVID-19 has continued to be an issue this year and although there is some reprieve with minimal restrictions, many people are concerned about what the colder months may bring.

 
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Although many of us have been vaccinated there is still a risk of infection and transmission. Deaths from COVID-19 have fallen but long- Covid is still a big issue.

Give yourself the best protection with natural support and maximise your immunity ahead of winter.

 

Vitamin D

Vitamin D supplementation was found protective against acute respiratory tract infection by the British Medical Journal. Deficiency in Vitamin D is also associated with increased complications in COVID-19 including Acute Respiratory Distress syndrome (ARDS)

 

Foods rich in vitamin D:

  • Oily fish (salmon, sardines, herring, mackerel)

  • Egg yolks

  • Mushrooms

 
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Dose: 2000-4000IU/day

Best taken with a meal containing healthy fats like avocado or nuts but can be then any time.

 

Sunshine on the skin stimulates vitamin D production, but please take care to prevent sunburn.

 
 

Vitamin C

This vitamin reduces the likelihood of catching a cold as well as reducing it’s severity and duration.

 

Foods rich in vitamin C:

  • Oranges

  • Grapefruit

  • Berries

  • Red and green peppers

  • Kiwi

  • Green leafy veg including brocolli

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Dose: up to 2000mg/day

 

Zinc

Zinc has an important role in the immune system by helping the body to fight infection. It may also prevent viral replication and reduce inflammation in the respiratory passages.

 

Foods rich in Zinc:

  • Oysters

  • Beef

  • Shellfish

  • Pumpkin seeds

  • Cashews

  • Almonds

  • Chia seeds

  • Mushrooms

  • Kale

  • Legumes

 
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Dose: 5-10mg/day

Taking Zinc on an empty stomach can cause nausea- best taken with food. Zinc can interfere with the absorption of certain medications, including antibiotics. Please check with your primary care provider if you are on any medications.

 

COVID-19 is not just a cold or a normal flu. There is currently no evidence that supplements will prevent COVID-19 or reduce the severity of illness if you catch it.

Please take government precautionary advice on how to stay safe.  Supplementation is no substitute for a healthy diet and nutrition should remain at the centre of any good health regime.

Klayr Hunter
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