Written by: Stephanie Borjas, NP
‘Tis the season… for a lot of yucky respiratory infections. The winter months bring cold weather, and more time spent together indoors places us at risk for viruses and illnesses. Our immune systems need us now more than ever to support it with the best vitamins and supplements for this winter season.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is probably the most recognized immunity booster, and for good reason! Vitamin C is a staple of the immune system because it supports the cellular function of the cells of the immune system. Vitamin C tells your body to make more white blood cells that help fight infection. Vitamin C is involved in the process of cell death, meaning it can help the body clear itself of cells it no longer needs and replaces it with new cells! Vitamin C has the ability to lessen the severity of coughs & colds as well as shortening the duration of symptoms. Natural sources of vitamin C include oranges, grapefruits, tangerines, strawberries, bell peppers, spinach, kale and broccoli.
Vitamin D
Known as the sunshine vitamin, Vitamin D is essential for immune system function because it has anti-inflammatory properties and helps your body fight against pathogens .Since vitamin D is absorbed by the skin less in the winter months, this is the time of the year when many individuals are deficient. Healthy levels of vitamin D help lower the risk of upper respiratory infections, and it is even shown to reduce the risk of
adverse outcomes caused by COVID-19! Natural sources of vitamin D include salmon, tuna, mackerel, sardines, and vitamin D fortified milks and foods.
Zinc
Zinc is a mineral that is known to boost the immune system by both preventing common cold and flu symptoms and reducing the duration after illness. Zinc is needed for the formation of new immune system cells and plays an important role in inflammatory response. Zinc deficiency is common in older adults, predisposing this population to upper respiratory infections. Natural sources of zinc include oysters, clab, lean meats and poultry, yogurt and chickpeas.
These vitamins can encourage your immune system to be the healthiest you can be year round. Many of us walk around with vitamin and mineral deficiencies without even knowing it! Come see us at L-Aesthetics for our “Immunity Plus”
IV infusion with all three of these vitamins during your lunch hour!