Balanced Health Immune Boost

A strong and balanced immune system is necessary to fight pathogens like bacteria and virus. But the immune system is an extensive network of cells, vessels and organs that have other jobs too, like defending your body against environmental pollutants. Luckily, research shows that it is possible to support the immune system through nutrition.

Following a wholesome and balanced diet are at the core of good health, but sometimes it’s not easy to get all the nutrition we need. This is why many health-conscious people use dietary supplements to fill the gap. Nutritional supplements that include a wide range of nutrients from plants and other natural sources can provide the extra boost we need to stay well, much like the following ingredients that are found in Balanced Immune Boost.

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin and antioxidant that benefits the immune system. It is considered an essential vitamin because it is not manufactured in the body, so must be consumed through diet. And even this can be tricky, as it is susceptible to break down during cooking or processing. If you are not consuming enough fresh fruits and vegetables that contain Vitamin C, you are missing out on the benefits it has to offer, such as immune support, healthy skin and iron absorption.

Zinc is a mineral found in all of our cells, yet is another nutrient that is not manufactured within the body. Our bodies use zinc to manufacture proteins and support metabolism, as well as a healthy immune system. In fact, studies show that too little zinc had an effect on certain enzymes that aid in reducing internal inflammation. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for zinc is 8 mg for women and 11 mg for men, and since the body has no way to store zinc, we have to consume it every day. We can get this nutrient through food sources like oysters, beans, nuts and red meat, however those with digestive issues along with vegans and vegetarians are at a higher risk for deficiencies.

Magnesium is another important micronutrient that is linked to numerous functions from regulating blood pressure to immune support. It also supports healthy brain and cardiac function and is often used to relieve constipation. Sources of magnesium include whole grains, legumes, nuts and leafy green vegetables, and getting enough is important as it has a strong relationship with both innate and adaptive immunity. (1)

Elderberry extract is a concentrated liquid extracted from the elderberry plant. It just so happens this plant is packed with vitamins along with numerous other bioflavonoids that have a positive impact on our health. It is often used in over the counter, natural remedies for cold and flu because it is believed to support the immune system. In traditional and folk medicine, elderberry was considered one of the most healing plants available.

Echinacea Purpurea is another plant traditionally used as a medicinal herb. These flowering plants are also known as coneflowers and used in herbal remedies around the world to support health. Advocates of holistic health tout this herb today as a way to support the immune system, and believe it contains compounds believed to support a healthy immune response. While most evidence seems to be anecdotal, its popularity keeps it relevant, as it seems to work well when the body has been overtaxed and needs extra support.

Citrus Bioflavonoids / Hesperidin – Hesperidin is a plant chemical that is classified as a bioflavonoid from citrus fruit. Flavonoids have long been known to have antioxidant properties, making them important protectors of the body against certain health issues. At least one study shows it has a positive impact on health with immune support. While citrus bioflavonoids are used frequently in natural remedies to enhance the action of vitamin C, it is also believed to support wound healing, UV protection and skin health.

Olive leaf extract is the concentrated liquid derived from the leaves of olive trees. And while we always knew that olive oil it good for you, it turns out the leaves are also beneficial. They are rich in polyphenols; plant compounds that provide health benefits ranging from helping digestion to protecting the heart. Olive leaf extract show promise with a few potential health benefits, with some laboratory results showing it may protect from certain harmful microorganisms. (2)

Ginger Root Extract is a liquid extract of the rhizome of the Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger. Ginger is mainly used as a home remedy for nausea and other digestive ailments, and can be consumed as a spice, tea or nutritional supplement. When it comes to immune support, ginger has promise as it has displayed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, along with other benefits. Ginger has been used for thousands of years as a natural remedy.

Thyme is a long-standing culinary staple that has pleased the palettes of chefs around the world for centuries. And it turns out this herb has more going for it than taste, as it is packed with vitamins C and A as well as copper, iron, and manganese. It has long been used as a natural remedy.

Purified Silver has been used throughout history to ward off infection and support health. Today, many holistic health remedies include purified silver which is believed to have powerful immune health effect. What advocates like most about this mineral is its ability to spare beneficial flora, making it a strong ally for immune support.

This Fix is in the Mix

Using one herb, mineral or vitamin rarely seems to have well-rounded effect on immunity and health. But just as a whole food provides benefits thanks to the combined nutrients, products with combined compounds for immune support can offer a wide range of protection. And when used with a healthy diet, ingredients like these can help anyone navigate the health challenges that today’s busy life seems to bring.

References:

1 Tam M, Gómez S, González-Gross M, Marcos A. Possible roles of magnesium on the immune system. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2003 Oct;57(10):1193-7. doi: 10.1038/sj.ejcn.1601689. PMID: 14506478.

2 “Olive Leaf.” Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 25 Feb. 2020, www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/olive-leaf.