Ten Top Supplements to Help Boost Your Immune System

 

The immune system is made of various bodily components including organs, bone marrow, cells, antibodies and chemicals, as well as the nutrients that help nourish and generate them. Listed below are the Top Ten supplements to help keep your immune system strong and you healthy.

 

Vitamin C Gives all round support to your immune system and may also have antiviral properties.
When dealing with health problems such as viral infections, colds, stress, surgery and progressive diseases, the bodies Vitamin C levels are compromised.

 

Vitamin E This essential vitamin is most useful for its antioxidant effects on oxidized fats and cholesterol, both of which are suspected causes heart disease. Vitamin E also helps to protect cell membranes and DNA from free-radical damage.

 

Selenium Selenium helps in 2 ways:
As part of the body's detoxification system. It is particularly helpful in getting rid of chemical irritants such as heavy metals.
As an antioxidant it prevents or slows the aging process of tissue. This may benefit the cardiovascular system and protect against cancer.

 

Vitamin A This antioxidant reduces the rate of infection and supports normal cell reproduction. It helps protect the body from the irritating effects of smoke and other pollutants. It may also reduce your chances of getting such health problems as ulcers, atherosclerosis, stroke and high blood pressure.
Beta-carotene This nutrient converts to Vitamin A in the body, however it does not have the same antioxidant effect as Vitamin A.

 

Beta-carotene has been shown to strengthen the immune response by stimulating T-helper cell activity.
It also appears to prevent the development of cancer. A number of studies have shown people with a higher beta-carotene intakes have a reduced rate of lung and colon cancer.

 

Zinc Zinc is essential to several immune-system functions.
It helps with healing and reduces infection.
It supports the parts of the immune system that helps the body fight infection and produce antibodies.
By helping to regulate the function of white blood cells zinc can improve antibody response to vaccines and cell-mediated immunity.

 

Echinacea Angustifolia Echinacea has been named the "king of blood purifiers". It is used to purify the blood and lymph system and to treat infections.
Recent studies show that it can increase white blood cell counts and as a result increase our ability to fight bacteria and viruses. It also stimulates the lymphatic system to clear wastes.

 

Acidophilus This beneficial bacteria inhabits the human digestive system. It is best known for assuring the return of normal body functions after a course of antibiotics, by reintroducing friendly bacteria into the colon. It acts as a mild antibiotic, and regular use can replace the harmful bacteria in your colon (or vaginal tract in women, where acidophilus is also used to treat yeast infections).

 

CoEnzyme-Q10 CoEnzyme-Q10 is made in the body and works alongside other enzymes to support the body's bioenergetic functions.
It seems to act as a mild stimulant to the immune-system. It has been shown to help lower blood pressure and enhance the pumping action and electrical function of the heart. It may also improve energy production in heart muscle cells.

 

Thymus Glandulars These are derived from animal glands and are thought to supply basic nutrients such as amino acids, oils and vitamins. Studies suggests that when eaten, they reach, and influence, human glands. Thymus Glandulars contain the active hormone thymosin which is of particular importance to the immunological function because help to stimulate T-lymphocyte production and activity in the body.

 

Disclaimer: The information presented is for information purposes only. It is based on scientific studies or traditional usage. Consult a health care professional before using supplements or making any changes in prescribed medications. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease