That is, there's no convincing evidence that any particular product meaningfully improves immune function in healthy people. For example, results of studies looking at various supplements for colds and other similar infections have been mixed at best. Even when taking a particular supplement was linked to reduced severity or duration of an infection like a cold, there's no proof that the supplement boosted overall immune function.

This goes for individual foods as well. None has ever been shown to improve immune function on its own. It's the overall quality of your diet , not individual foods, that matters most. A similar approach applies to advice on foods you should avoid, such as sugary drinks or highly processed meats: the best foods to avoid in support of your immune system are the same ones you should be limiting anyway.

It's not a secret and it's not a product. What's good for your overall health is good for immune function. The best ways to keep your immune system at peak performance are:.

This list probably looks familiar. These measures have long been recommended for overall health, and can do a lot to help many of us. Certain illnesses — HIV, some cancers, and autoimmune disorders — or their treatments can affect how well the immune system works.

So some people may need additional help from medications and therapies, which could truly count as immune boosting. Perhaps there will come a time when we'll know how to boost immune function beyond following routine health measures.

That's simply not the case now. Until we know more, I wouldn't rely on individual foods, detox programs, oral supplements, or on-demand IV drips to keep your immune system healthy, especially when there are far more reliable options.

Robert H. Shmerling, MD , Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing. As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.

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Water intake can have many positive benefits for your immune system, including but not limited to aiding in digestion and preventing possible pathogens like a virus or bacteria from getting into the eyes, nose and mouth.

Prioritizing exercise. Moderate-intensity exercise can help maintain a healthy immune system. Getting enough sleep. If you get enough sleep, it will help your body fight off sickness and help succeed at the tips mentioned above.

Adults should get between hours of sleep each night. Increasing vitamin intake. Vitamins B6, C and E are all known for their immune-boosting properties. Back Cranberry Echinacea Ginseng Milk Thistle Turmeric.

Back Get Better Back Immune Support Natural Energy Aids Natural Sleep Aids Stress Support. Back Women's Health Men's Health Prenatal Health Children's Health Infant Health.

Back Wellness Blog Wellness Recipes. Immune Booster. Title Default Title. Quantity Add to cart. Gluten-Free Lactose-Free Non-GMO. SKU: Barcode: Add an Immunity Boost To Your Smoothie Customize your favourite smoothie or shake with the new Jamieson Protein Boosters!

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Ingredients Each scoop 3. Serving Directions. Directions Mix 1 scoop daily into your favourite cold beverage, including protein shakes and smoothies. Ingredient Spotlight: Echinacea The Echinacea flower is native to North America.

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Zinc deficiency affects around 2 billion people worldwide and is very common in older adults. Zinc deficiency is relatively rare in North America and in developed countries 17 , Nevertheless, many individuals in the United States have marginal zinc deficiency related to intake or absorption.

Older individuals are generally at an increased risk Numerous studies reveal that zinc supplements may protect against respiratory tract infections like the common cold 19 , In a study in 64 hospitalized children with acute lower respiratory tract infections ALRIs , taking 30 mg of zinc per day decreased the total duration of infection and the duration of the hospital stay by an average of 2 days, compared with a placebo group Supplemental zinc may also help reduce the duration of the common cold Additionally, zinc demonstrates antiviral activity 23 , Taking zinc long term is typically safe for healthy adults, as long as the daily dose is under the set upper limit of 40 mg of elemental zinc Supplementing with zinc may help protect against respiratory tract infections and reduce the duration of these infections.

Vitamin C is perhaps the most popular supplement taken to protect against infection due to its important role in immune health. This vitamin supports the function of various immune cells and enhances their ability to protect against infection. Vitamin C also functions as a powerful antioxidant, protecting against damage induced by oxidative stress, which occurs with the accumulation of reactive molecules known as free radicals.

Oxidative stress can negatively affect immune health and is linked to numerous diseases Supplementing with vitamin C has been shown to reduce the duration and severity of upper respiratory tract infections, including the common cold Additionally, high-dose intravenous vitamin C treatment has been shown to significantly improve symptoms in people with severe infections, including sepsis and acute respiratory distress syndrome ARDS resulting from viral infections Still, other studies have suggested that the role of vitamin C in this setting is still under investigation 32 , The upper limit for vitamin C is 2, mg.

Supplemental daily doses are typically between and 1, mg Vitamin C is vital for immune health. Supplementing with this nutrient may help reduce the duration and severity of upper respiratory tract infections, including the common cold. Black elderberry Sambucus nigra , which has long been used to treat infections, is being researched for its effects on immune health.

In test-tube studies, elderberry extract demonstrates potent antibacterial and antiviral potential against bacterial pathogens responsible for upper respiratory tract infections and strains of the influenza virus 35 , A review of 4 randomized control studies in people found that elderberry supplements significantly reduced upper respiratory symptoms caused by viral infections However, this study is outdated and was sponsored by the elderberry syrup manufacturer, which may have skewed results Though it has been suggested that elderberry can help relieve symptoms of certain infections and the influenza virus, we also must be aware of the risks.

Some report that elderberries can lead to the production of excess cytokines, which could potentially damage healthy cells For that reason, some researchers recommend elderberry supplements only be used in the early course of COVID It should be noted no published research studies have evaluated the use of elderberry for COVID These recommendations are based on previous research done on elderberries.

A systemic review of elderberry 43 concluded:. Taking elderberry supplements may help reduce upper respiratory symptoms caused by viral infections and help alleviate flu symptoms. However, elderberry also has risks.

More research is needed. Medicinal mushrooms have been used since ancient times to prevent and treat infection and disease. Many types of medicinal mushrooms have been studied for their immune-boosting potential. Over recognized species of medicinal mushrooms are known to have immune-enhancing properties Some research demonstrates that supplementing with specific types of medicinal mushrooms may enhance immune health in several ways as well as reduce symptoms of certain conditions, including asthma and lung infections.

For example, a study in mice with tuberculosis, a serious bacterial disease, found that treatment with cordyceps significantly reduced bacterial load in the lungs, enhanced immune response, and reduced inflammation, compared with a placebo group In a randomized, 8-week study in 79 adults, supplementing with 1.

Turkey tail is another medicinal mushroom that has powerful effects on immune health. Research in humans indicates that turkey tail may enhance immune response, especially in people with certain types of cancer 48 , Many other medicinal mushrooms have been studied for their beneficial effects on immune health as well.

Your immune system is a process of checks and balances that helps fight and protect the body from disease and illness. Many products claim to give your immune system the boost it needs to keep you running at your best. But, Hansen says approach immune system supplements with caution.

But, your body can only absorb so much of any vitamin in a given day. Supplements can cause side effects as well. On the other hand, there are habits you might have that Hansen says weaken your immune system, rather than boosting it. Unfortunately, cold and flu season is an especially tough time to keep your immune system going strong.

Hansen says to focus on what you can control to keep you and your family healthy. UnityPoint Health News and Articles 5 Immune System Boosters to Try.

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Beyond the usual suspects for healthy resolutions. January 1, Your money might be better spent on something else. What's in the bottle Products that claim to boost or "support" the immune system typically fall into a couple of categories: vitamin formulations and probiotics.

That may change, but in the meantime, be skeptical of claims to the contrary. Strategies to stay healthy So, if you can't help your immune system by taking an over-the-counter potion or pill, what can you do to cut down on illness this winter? Share This Page Share this page to Facebook Share this page to Twitter Share this page via Email.

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Instead of trying to "boost" your immune system, here's what you can do to support your immune system. Your body needs certain vitamins and minerals to perform optimally. There are tons of supplements for nutrients out there that might help support your immune system. Some examples of helpful nutrients include:.

In particular, another type of supplement, adaptogens, can also have positive effects on the immune, nervous, and endocrine systems.

For example, research has found that Ashwagandha, an herb, can support immunity and decrease stress, which also negatively impacts the immune system. Of note: if you consume more than what your body can handle when it comes to supplements, it'll get rid of the extra.

Also, taking more than the daily recommended value can lead to dangerous side effects in severe cases. Too much vitamin A, for example, is toxic and can lead to liver damage.

Everyone won't need to take supplements, nor will they be able to do so. Some supplements may mess with the way other medicines work or worsen a person's health conditions.

Supplements can help fill in the gaps if someone doesn't have enough of certain nutrients, said Dr. Kader, "[b]ut there's nothing that you can overnight to have this superhuman immune system that will help you fight off infection. If you're interested in or think you might need supplements for immune system support, talk with a healthcare provider first to see if the supplements are right for you.

You can also help your immune system by eating foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Those foods naturally come with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, benefiting the immune system.

But even a healthy diet can't make up for other factors that may mess with your immunity level. For example, stress and a lack of quality sleep can leave a person with a weak immune system.

With that in mind, you'll want to find ways to reduce stress and get good quality sleep. Other ways you can help your immunity include:. Even if immune-boosting supplements say so, there's no quick, packaged fix for protecting yourself against illnesses. However, there are ways to help support your immune system over time.

You can change your eating habits to get more nutrients, like zinc or vitamin D, or make sure you get enough good sleep every night. But always talk to a healthcare provider if you have concerns about your immune system and how it works. Wagner DN, Marcon AR, Caulfield T. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol.

TB12 protect. Food and Drug Administration. Coronavirus update: FDA and FTC warn seven companies selling fraudulent products that claim to treat or prevent COVID National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

COVID and "alternative" treatments: What you need to know. National Library of Medicine. Immune response. FDA Dietary supplements. Hewlings SJ, Kalman DS. Curcumin: A review of its effects on human health.

Recent studies have suggested EGCG may possess antiviral capacities against a broad range of RNA and DNA viruses. the binding and entry of viruses into cells via the interference of viral membrane proteins. Green Tea can be enjoyed as a tea or taken as a dietary supplement for an extra health boost.

Zinc is an important mineral and nutrient that is required for many processes in the body. Among many other functions, Zinc supports the immune system, is required for bone growth, helps with wound healing, eyesight, as well as brain development.

Check out how the immune system functions in kids and infants! common cold. The common cold occurs through a rhinovirus infection of nasal epithelial cells. The rhinovirus is a single-stranded RNA virus that is responsible for most upper respiratory tract infections. The virus binds to a type of receptor molecule found in the nasal epithelium called intracellular adhesion molecule-1 ICAM Ionic zinc also has an affinity to the ICAM-1 receptor due to its electrical charge.

By attaching to these receptors, Zinc blocks the virus from infecting the epithelial cells. Several other studies have concurred with these results. One study indicated a significant reduction in the severity of the symptoms associated with a cold, as long as zinc is taken within 24 hours of the onset of the symptoms.

Many foods like red onion, berries, elderberry, and green tea contain this important antioxidant. Quercetin has long been revered for its antioxidant potential.

Its phenolic properties allow it to neutralize the damage caused by free radicals via the donation of a hydrogen atom. Recently, scientists have found supplementing with Quercetin may have anti-viral effects. In fact, several in-vitro experiments found Quercetin could inhibit the entry of certain viruses by blocking the receptors on cells to which the viruses enter, and possibly preventing certain infections.

Moreover, certain Quercetin-rich foods like red onion also act as a mucolytic agent, which help to expel stuck mucous and relieve congestion in the lungs. Elderberries are powerful bioflavonoids — naturally occurring compounds that are notorious for their anti-viral and antioxidant properties.

Studies explored the effects of elderberries on immunity and indicated that these berries improve immune function through their ability to increase cytokine activity — signalling molecules that regulate immune responses and inflammation. The fruit of the elderberry plant is usually sold as a syrup or in dried fruits that can be made into a syrup at home by adding dried elderberries, raw honey and boiling water.

The flower itself can also be consumed as a healthful tea. N-acetyl cysteine NAC is the supplement form of cysteine, a semi-essential amino acid that plays an important role in respiratory and immune function.

In addition, NAC has been found to improve respiratory health by helping to break down phlegm and decreasing inflammation in the lungs.

We all know Vitamin D is vital to our well-being. This fat-soluble vitamin plays a fundamental role in the proper functioning of our body and particularly our immune system.

The data regarding the importance of Vitamin D for our health is extensive. Research shows individuals with adequate Vitamin D levels have enhanced immune responses, decreased inflammation and are less prone to infections.

Vitamin D is best absorbed through sun exposure. Twenty minutes a day of sunlight is ideal. However, due to geographical location, many get their vitamin D through daily supplement intake, to prevent a deficiency in this essential vitamin. Baicalin is a phytonutrient with a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine for its potent anti-inflammatory compounds and positive effects on the immune and circulatory function.

Baicalin is found to strengthen the immune system with its ability to neutralize pathogens. In vivo studies performed on mice showed oral administration of Baicalin was effective in inhibiting the proliferation of certain viruses, demonstrating the antiviral activity of Baicalin. Adaptogens help your body cope with stress — be it physical, environmental or emotional.

They adapt to the bodies needs at a given time — i. if you are fatigued, they give you energy and help you focus Cordyceps and if you are too wired with anxiety, they calm you down Rhodiola rose a, Reishi.

Vitamin D also interacts with medications, such as the weight loss pill orlistat Alli, Xenical , steroids , and cholesterol-lowering statins. If a person has too much zinc, it can cause negative effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headaches.

Over time, excess zinc can lead to low copper levels, decreased immunity, and lower levels of helpful cholesterol. Zinc can also interact with other medications.

Probiotics are safe for most people. However, they may worsen illnesses or cause bacterial infections in people who have very weak immune systems or are severely ill.

This can involve :. There is no evidence that mega-doses of vitamins and nutrients can boost the immune system. The best way to ensure that the immune system functions well is to have a balanced diet, get enough sleep, exercise, and take the vaccinations that are offered.

Anyone with nutrient deficiencies who is unable to have a healthy, balanced diet may find it beneficial to take a daily multivitamin. But though some research shows that getting more than the RDAs of vitamins C and D might help support immune health, confirming this requires more research.

If a person thinks they have a nutrient deficiency, they should consider speaking with a doctor about having a blood test. This will help pinpoint any deficiencies and determine the right approach to supplementation.

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