Winter strategies for healthy immune system

Winter is a good time to take a look at the strategies and supplements that help bolster our immune system and ward off or minimize the downside of low immunity, such as colds and flu, tiredness and lethargy. Many of us start out the New Year with health and fitness goals and the last thing that we want is to have these slowed or stopped due to the fatigue or poor health that low immunity can bring.

When thinking about boosting the immune system, the first thing that comes to mind is Vitamin C. Vitamin C is probably the most recognized and used supplement and is none the less useful because of that. Most of us probably think of citrus fruits as the primary source of Vitamin C from the diet, but there are a number of vegetables that pack a hefty punch of Vitamin C, including, Chili, Bell Pepper, Broccoli, and Kale. There are also other fruits to consider, Kiwi, Mango and Strawberries all deliver a healthy dose of Vitamin C.

Your diet is always a good place to start while trying to obtain your basic daily intake of vitamins and minerals. However, even when taking the recommended 5 a day servings of fruits and vegetables there is no guarantee that you will intake sufficient vitamin C for your needs. During colder months, we are cooking and warming our vegetables and this reduces the amount available Vitamin C we consume, which can result in deficiency.  Adding a supplement to our diet is a very sensible precaution. Basic Vitamin C formulas are either naturally or artificially derived Ascorbic acid. The daily recommended dose for Vitamin C for adults over the age of 18 is 75mg.

Zinc is another essential for a healthy immune system. Zinc is a trace element that is essential for cells of the immune system, and zinc deficiency affects the ability of T cells and other immune cells to function as they should. The recommended daily intake is 15–25 mg per day and is available as a supplement either on its own or within multivitamin/mineral combinations.

Other herbs to consider are Echinachea, Goldenseal, Astragalus and Elderberry (Sambucus). These are popular herbs to use when looking to boost the immunity system and optimize wellness. These popular herbs are used in many preparations from soothing syrups and lozenges through tinctures and tablets.

AllStarhealth.com offers many options for Vitamin C, Zinc and immune boosting supplementation, check out our shopping pages today!

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