A strong immune system is essential for protecting the body against infections and illnesses. While a healthy lifestyle—balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate sleep—plays a crucial role in maintaining immunity, certain supplements can also provide additional support. Incorporating these supplements into your routine, along with a well-rounded diet, can contribute to overall health and resilience against illnesses.
Ann Shippy, a board-certified MD in functional medicine, recently shared nine different supplements that can aid in immunity and help fight off infections, especially as the season starts to change. Read on to learn more!
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1. Vitamin D
Vitamin D helps regulate the immune response, reducing excessive inflammation that can contribute to illness. Ann says this supplement “regulates immune function and reduces susceptibility to infections.”
2. Zinc
Zinc also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that protect the body from excessive immune responses that can lead to tissue damage. Zinc “supports white blood cell function and helps fight viruses,” she says.
3. Vitamin C
Vitamin C reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, which can weaken the immune system.
Shippy describes this as “a powerful antioxidant that enhances immune defenses and reduces oxidative stress."
4. Multivitamin
Multivitamins are a common dietary supplement used to help fill nutrient gaps and support overall health. Nutrients like vitamins C, D, and zinc, as mentioned before, can help the body’s defense system. Shippy says this supplement “provides foundational immune support, including selenium, which reduces oxidative stress and boosts antiviral protection.”
5. Probiotics
Since nearly 70% of the immune system is located in the gut, maintaining a balance of beneficial bacteria helps strengthen the body’s natural defenses. According to Shippy, probiotics "strengthen gut health, which is essential for immunity.”
6. Curcumin
Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, helps support immunity and fight off infections due to its powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. This is a “powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that regulates immune response, rescues inflammation, and supports respiratory health," she notes.
7. Glutathione
By reducing inflammation and supporting cellular repair, glutathione strengthens the body's defense mechanisms, making it more resilient against infections. “The body’s master antioxidant, [it's] essential for detox and immune defense," she adds.
8. Quercetin
Quercetin also has antiviral properties, preventing viruses from entering cells and replicating. It's “a natural flavonoid that enhances zinc absorption and reduces inflammation," Shippy says.
9. Beta-glucans
Beta-glucans also help modulate the immune response, reducing excessive inflammation while still promoting a strong defense against infections. It “enhances immune function and activates key immune cells. Found in my daily defense and rapid recovery formulas," Shippy reveals.
