“I was just diagnosed with COVID-19. Which supplements can boost my immune system?”
Although quite common now, this question was a rare query just a short time ago. There is no doubt the pandemic has consumed a lot of our attention in a dramatic and rapid fashion. One year ago, “masks, getting tested, sanitizer, social distancing, and quarantine” were terms that held a different meaning for us and rarely used in regular conversation. Similarly, there is a surge of focus on wellness, in general, and immune system health, in particular.
Immune System Supplementation
We often receive questions on which supplements can be taken to either prevent COVID-19 or decrease the duration/severity of the illness. Here is our list of current favorites when it comes to immune system supplementation, specific to COVID-19:
- Zinc
- Quercetin
- Resveratrol
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin C
- Elderberry
- N-Acetyl Cysteine
- Star Anise
These supplements act in varying ways, from decreasing the virus’ ability to bind to cells and reproduce, to decreasing the inflammatory effects that make this virus so dangerous. But, before you go scrambling for the literal or virtual shopping cart, make sure you educate yourself on the details. As the medical world learns more about the nature of SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19), the recommended dosages have and will continue to change.
We encourage you to do your research and remember these caveats:
- The maximum doses of all supplements prior to taking them and never take more than what is prescribed by the supplement manufacturer.
- Ensure that you are only using supplements from manufacturers that have their products independently certified free of contaminants and verified to have the actual chemicals they advertise on the label.
- Although these supplements may help your immune system, certainly not enough is known for us to confidently be ensured they will work universally.
- Do not forget that supplements are NOT a substitute for your standard medical resources. If you are sick, seek healthcare.
Learn More About Supplements
We realize this is a complicated topic and can take time and a lot of energy to digest. For a more in-depth discussion on a supplement strategy, including currently recommended dosing strategies, we would be happy to provide a personalized consultation. Give us a call or shoot us an email and we can talk you through the world of supplements.