Boost Your Immune System Naturally

So you want to find ways to boost your immune system? It seems to be a hot topic right now related to Covid-19. We have forgotten that the other viruses, illness, and diseases have NOT taken the last 2 years as a vacation. “Boosting” your immune system should be a focus all year, every year, and not in response to one particular “invader”.

I have simplified what the immune system is, how it works and how to boost your immune system naturally. Don’t forget to jump over to my Fullscript dispensary to check out the products we keep in our “medicine” cabinet! You can also find other favorites listed in my affiliate links as well as the RCC Store.

*this post is NOT medical advice, it is a blog written based on my experiences, research and opinions*

How does the immune system work?

Your immune system is a collection of different cells, tissues and molecules that work to defend our body against pathogens. Your body has 2 types of immune systems that work together called the “innate” & “adaptive” immune systems.

Innate immune system

You are born with you innate immune system. I consider this your “emergency response” team because it is the first line of defense against invading pathogens. When your immune system recognized an “invader”, then it kicks into action immediately by “surrounding and covering” the pathogen. Then the cells of your immune system work together to eliminate or contain the virus, bacteria, or pathogen.

Adaptive Immune system

Your immune system actively recognized and remembers different pathogens. The innate immune system uses exposures to germs, viruses, bacteria and other invaders to create specific antibodies. This is a slower process, and antibodies can take a couple days or more to form. After your first exposure, the immune system now has a “memory” and can defend against that pathogen in the future. Traditional vaccinations utilize your adaptive immune system by triggering the formation of antibodies to specific injected pathogens. (Vaccinations are a very hot topic that I will dive into in another post.)

Keep Your Immune System Healthy

When your immune system is working properly, it is able to accurately target the invaders without harming the good guys. When your immune system is NOT working as it should, it creates issues such as autoimmunity, allergic reactions, infections etc.

ways to boost your immune system

Over the counter medications treat the SYMPTOMS, but they do not help the immune system fight off the invader. These medications will make you feel better temporarily, but they will not actually make you “healthier”. Below you will find well researched supplements to boost your immune system to prevent and even fight against general illnesses.

• Vitamin C: Vitamin C acts as a natural anti-inflammatory, antihistamine, and plays a role in illness prevention. It might even help shorten the duration of a cold. It is a water soluble vitamin. Taking high quantities when sick allow the body to use what it needs and eliminate the rest through your stools.
• Vitamin D: This vitamin, which is actually a hormone, has been found to boost the immune system and balance inflammation responses. Vitamin D should be taken in combination with K2, which helps with the correct absorption of calcium into the bones. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin. It is absorbed by fat, stored in fat, and should be taken with meals that include a source of healthy fat when possible. Monitor your vitamin D levels with your healthcare provider as well.
• Zinc: Zinc is especially powerful if it is taken within the first 24-48 hours of illness. It plays a significant role in boosting the immune system and is often paired with Quercitin. Taking zinc with Quercitin can help with “opening” the cells to allow for better absorption of the zinc.
• Probiotics: Probiotics are the “good gut bugs” that help to support the immune system. Having a healthy gut will significantly improve immune function, prevent illness, and help support regulation of the immune system. Gut health should be a focus daily, not only when you are trying to boost your immune system!
• Selenium: Selenium is a key nutrient for supporting thyroid function and immune health. It is an antioxidant that we get through food, especially in Brazil nuts.
• NAC: N-acetyl cysteine is an amino acid that is required to make glutathione, a master antioxidant, required for detoxification. NAC also has properties that cause a mucous thinning effect and can aide in clearing airways.
• Oregano: Oregano has natural antimicrobial properties and works well in combination with other herbs to support the immune system responses.
• Monolaurin: Monolaurin is derived from coconuts and helps support immune system responses, has antibacterial effects, and antiviral properties.
• Garlic: Garlic can be helpful in the immune response as well as reducing infection severity.
• Honey: Raw honey specifically has antioxidant properties and is soothing to sore throats and might help reduce coughing.

Check out my favorite supplements, how to take them, and where to get them here. That link you to my online dispensary hosted by Fullscript. You will be able to browse around and check out my lists for all types of health topics. Keep it book marked and ready incase you ever need to order some immune boosting supplements to keep on hand!

* There are MANY different things I could have listed specifically about how to boost your immune system, but these are my initial go to substances to fight off illness and keep my families immune systems running well! These supplements are not a replacement for proper medical care, they are not a cure-all, and they do not work the same for everyone. These suggestions work very well for my family, in conjunction with a healthy diet, sleep and other routines. Again, this is NOT to be taken as medical advice.*