The flu season is upon us, but boosting your immune system may help limit your risk of getting sick. There are a few dietary supplements that can make your body’s natural defenses stronger and work to keep you sniffle-free. Here are some to choose from.

What Dietary Supplements Should You Take to Avoid Colds?

1. Vitamin E

This vitamin is an antioxidant that supports the immune system. It boosts cellular immunity, particularly in seniors, and promotes healthy circulation. It also helps protect against harmful free radicals, which are unstable atoms that are missing electrons and may contribute to the development of diseases.

2. Zinc

This is also an antioxidant, and if you’re not getting enough of it through your diet, your immune system will be weakened. Zinc is crucial for the healthy growth of the T and B immune cells that control your immunity, which is why many products designed to shorten the duration of colds include it.

3. Vitamin C

This well-known vitamin boosts your immune system by keeping pathogens out and killing harmful microbes, while also preventing and treating respiratory infections, including colds. If you do catch the virus, it may cut your symptomatic period by as much as a day.

4. Mushroom Supplements

Relatively new in Western alternative medicine, mushrooms have been shown to bring immune benefits, which may reduce your chances of getting a cold. One study found that five major species have such strong immunological benefits that they may be effective for controlling or even treating cancer, while mitigating problematic side effects of chemotherapy.

5. Probiotics

Your immune system is affected by the bacteria in your intestines. By introducing more healthy bacteria, probiotics strengthen your stomach and intestine’s immunological barrier, helping protect against pathogens ingested through food or drink. They also regulate the systemic, mucosal, and intestinal immune cells, which may be useful for treating or managing diseases and allergic reactions.

For dietary supplements that boost your immunity, see the holistic team at Center for the Healing Arts, PC in Westport, CT. Offering alternative medicines, their team creates personalized treatment plans that include innovative procedures such as IV Vitamin C treatments. Learn about their supplements online, and call (203) 799-7733 to schedule a consultation.