Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with These Immune-Boosting Supplements

Do you want to live a healthy and happy life? Of course, you do! But, have you ever thought about how important your immune system is in achieving this goal? 

In today's world, it is more important than ever to take care of our immune systems. Our immune system plays an important role in keeping us healthy and protecting us from sickness. While a healthy diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep are essential for maintaining a robust immune system, many people also turn to supplements, wanting to give their immune system an extra boost.

St. Patrick's Day is a fun and festive holiday, but it can also be a time when people indulge in unhealthy food and drink choices. However, with the help of supplements, you can celebrate this holiday in a different way. Let's explore some of the most popular immune-boosting supplements to support your wellness on St. Patrick's Day:

1. Vitamin C

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential nutrient that plays numerous important roles in the body. Perhaps its most well-known function is as a powerful antioxidant, which helps supportcells against free radicals. [1]

In addition to its antioxidant properties, vitamin C is also essential for supporting the immune system. Specifically, it helps stimulate the production and activity of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting off infections and other foreign invaders. This is why vitamin C is often recommended fort the immune system, particularly during cold and flu season.

While it's ideal to obtain vitamin C from food sources, such as citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts, many people may not consume enough of these foods regularly. In these cases, some people may opt for vitamin C supplements which can provide a convenient and effective way to boost intake.

2. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a vital nutrient that the human body requires to maintain healthy bones and teeth, support normal muscle function, and regulate calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood. Vitamin D helps regulate the immune response by activating and regulating various immune cells. It is said to help the body to produce antimicrobial peptides, which are natural antibiotics that can fight off invading bacteria and viruses [2]

While the body can produce vitamin D through exposure to sunlight, many people do not get enough vitamin D from this source, especially during the winter months when sunlight is limited. Factors such as age, skin color, and the use of sunscreen can also affect the body's ability to produce vitamin D. For this reason, many people may opt to take vitamin D supplements to maintain adequate levels of this essential nutrient.

3. Zinc

Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in many physiological functions in the human body. It is involved in numerous biochemical processes, such as cellular growth. However, it is said that its most well-known function is its role in helping to support the immune system. [3]

Zinc is said to help the immune system fight off invading bacteria and viruses by enabling white blood cells to function properly.. Zinc may also play a role in the production of antibodies, which are proteins that help support the immune system. [4]

4. Elderberry

Elderberry, scientifically known as Sambucus nigra, is a fruit that has been used for for centuries. The plant is native to Europe, but it is also found in North America, Asia, and Africa. The berries have a long history of usage and are said to help with supporting the respiratory system.*

Elderberries are rich in antioxidants, which may help support the body against free radicals.* They also contain flavonoids, which may be helpful throughout the body. [5] In addition, elderberries contain vitamins A, B, and C, as well as potassium, iron, and calcium, which are all essential for overall health.

5. Omega-3 Fish Oil

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that are important for maintaining a healthy body. These fatty acids are found in fish, particularly oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines. Omega-3 fatty acids are known for numerous support in regards to the immune system.[6]

Overall, some research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may be important for supporting they immune system. [7] Eating a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as oily fish or taking omega-3 fish oil supplements, may help with joint support and heart health.

In conclusion, while many people may take supplements for helping to support their immune system, they should never be used as a substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle. It is always best to get nutrients from food sources whenever possible.

Remember to always consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications. Enjoy the celebration of St. Patrick's Day in moderation, and make your wellbeing a priority today.

References: 

1. Mph, K. M. Z. R. L. (2008, April 8).The Benefits of Vitamin C. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/diet/features/the-benefits-of-vitamin-c
   
   
2. LD, M. W. R. (2023, January 5).What are the health benefits of vitamin D? https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/161618
   
   
3. Office of Dietary Supplements - Zinc. (n.d.). https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Zinc-Consumer/#:~:text=Zinc%20is%20found%20in%20cells,to%20grow%20and%20develop%20properly.
   
   
4. Gammoh, N. Z., & Rink, L. (2017, June 17).Zinc in Infection and Inflammation. Nutrients; MDPI. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9060624
   
   
5. Sidor, A., & Gramza-Michałowska, A. (2015, October 1).Advanced research on the antioxidant and health benefit of elderberry (Sambucus nigra) in food – a review. Journal of Functional Foods; Elsevier BV. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2014.07.012
   
   
6. Omega-3 in fish: How eating fish helps your heart. (2022, April 19). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-disease/in-depth/omega-3/art-20045614#:~:text=Omega%2D3%20fatty%20acids%20are,Decreasing%20triglycerides
   
   
7. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: An Essential Contribution. (2019, May 22). The Nutrition Source. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/what-should-you-eat/fats-and-cholesterol/types-of-fat/omega-3-fats/#:~:text=What%20makes%20omega%2D3%20fats,of%20artery%20walls%2C%20and%20inflammation.