Immune Health Supplements

Put simply, the immune system is an around-the-clock defense system that helps protect the body from invading microorganisms, such as unfriendly viruses and bacteria. It encompasses a diverse group of immune-related cells that can be broadly categorized as either innate or adaptive immune cells, based on their different properties and mechanisms.

Innate immune cells serve as the body's first line of defense. They are quick to respond, but not selective. On the contrary, adaptive immune cells are slower to respond but produce and respond to antibodies, which enables the immune systems to remember past immune challenges for future defense.

How well these different immune cells are able to coordinate their activities determines how effectively the host can mount an immune response, and ultimately, their ability to stay healthy. Many factors contribute to how well a body mounts an immune response, including age, underlying health issues, stress levels, sleep habits, and proper nutrition, including specific nutrients and dietary factors.

It’s a good idea to think of immune-supporting supplements as part of a broader approach to health rather than just something to use when you’re not feeling well. Consistent use can help maintain overall immune function on a daily basis. The bonus is that many immune-support nutrients, such as vitamin D3, vitamin C, omega-3s, and probiotics, also support other aspects of your health, allowing you to reinforce immune health and overall well-being at the same time.^*

Vitamin D3 is another nutrient that is necessary for the proper functioning of innate and adaptive immune cells. A significant way in which Vitamin D can directly affect our defenses when we are exposed to an unfriendly microorganism is by helping macrophages produce something called host defense peptides (HDPs). HDPs are made within our bodies and play a crucial role in discouraging the growth of unfriendly microorganisms. Because most of our immune cells contain the vitamin D receptor, achieving an adequate daily intake of vitamin D is critical for immune function. Numerous studies associate insufficiencies in Vitamin D can lead to a weaker immune system. Unlike vitamin C, active vitamin D3 can be made in the body; however, because its production can be reduced by numerous factors many people are insufficient in vitamin D and need to supplement daily to keep their immune system function at its best.^*

A growing body of research suggests that probiotics play an important role in immune health. In fact, approximately 70% of the body’s immune cells are produced in or influenced by the gut.

Supplementing with probiotics can support immune health in several ways, including:

• Help maintain a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut.^*
• Inhibit the growth of unfriendly bacteria by competing for nutrients that promote growth, producing substances that discourage growth of unfriendly bacteria, and competing with unfriendly microorganisms for adherence to the gut wall.^*
• Enhance the barrier function of the gut to help the body from unfriendly microorganisms and support absorption of beneficial nutrients.^*
• Stimulate immune cell activity which supports the body’s ability to discourage growth of unfriendly microorganisms.^*

Omega-3s are one of those foundational nutrients that impact every part of your body because their benefits start in your cells and the immune system is no exception.

Omega-3s, EPA and DHA, also enhance the function of both innate and adaptive immune cells. For example, DHA and EPA can help regulate the activities of macrophage cells, which play a critical role in the body’s innate immune defense by patrolling for unfriendly microorganisms and discouraging their growth. Omega-3s also support innate immune function by increasing the number and phagocytic capacity of neutrophil cells—a process wherein neutrophils counterbalance unfriendly microorganisms by binding to them and engulfing it. Studies also show that EPA and DHA can increase adaptive immune function by supporting the growth and specialization of certain types of T cells and increasing the number and percentages of B cell populations in different tissues.In addition, research also indicates that EPA and DHA support immune health by reducing cell stress responses that can lead to poor health.

Vitamin C is not only essential for the proper function of cells throughout the body but is also known to be especially concentrated in our innate and adaptive immune system cells. In fact, immune cells use a significant amount of vitamin C during periods of immune challenges and stress.

Acting as an antioxidant, vitamin C helps maintain the integrity of immune cells by protecting them from normal, metabolism-related stress, as well as increased oxidative stress associated with attacks from pathogens. Additionally, vitamin C has been found to preserve and replenish immune cells which are under constant stress. It’s also important to note that humans cannot make vitamin C, they must obtain it from dietary sources or supplements.

Elderberry contains a diverse array of nutritional components, including antioxidant molecules, and anthocyanins—a biologically active family of pigments with antioxidant and immune supportive health benefits. The elderberry plant has been used for centuries in various health contexts, but its most common usage has been to support respiratory health. This is because, in addition to antioxidant properties that allow it to scavenge a diverse array of free radicals and help to provide antioxidant support for cells and tissues, elderberry can also influence the development and function of specific types of immune cells. Studies have reported similar benefits, showing that elderberry extracts can help people maintain a strong immune system.

Zinc is an essential mineral that plays vital structural and metabolic roles in cells throughout the body, including in the immune system. Within the immune system, zinc influences the production, differentiation, and function of cells in both the innate and adaptive immune system. As a result, this mineral helps regulate the ability of the immune system to coordinate, appropriately respond to, and complete its response to an unfriendly microorganism. Studies have shown that individuals with lower blood levels of zinc tend to have weaker immune function and increased susceptibility to poor health. Additionally, research suggests that supplementation with zinc can help raise zinc blood levels and support normal respiratory health.^*

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your health care provider if you have a known medical condition or are taking medications. The information provided herein is based on a review of current existing research; the presenter and sponsor do not accept responsibility for the accuracy of the information itself or the consequences from the use or misuse of the information.