Summer is almost done and fall season is creeping up. With beautiful changes in the colour of the trees and the smell of pumpkin spice lattes, and chilly wind, flu season is just around the corner. Although flu season is inevitable, there are ways to boost your immune system naturally to decrease the side effects and preventing colds. So to get ahead of the game, here are some supplements to use before flu season or if you feel like you are getting sick
- Probiotics are a great way to boost your immune system. Traditionally used for building good gut biome, probiotics can help reduce the duration of upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) as well as reduce the chance of URTI. Once probiotics are taken, it restores the gut microbiome which helps the system improve its immune system to fight off germs. Interestingly enough there was less need for antibiotics for individuals who were taking probiotics.
- Elderberry also known as Sambucus, is one of the most common used medicinal herb in the world. It has great research to suggest its use to prevent cold as well as decrease cold and flu symptoms. A study found that supplementation with elderberry was found to substantially reduce upper respiratory symptoms (Hawkins et al., 2018).
- Zinc can play a central role in assisting the immune system as it is crucial for the development and functioning of nonspecific immune cells.
- NAC or also known as N-acetyl Cysteine have been traditionally used to treat chronic bronchitis and COPD. NAC can be helpful for improve the immune system.
- Vitamin C, as we all know is a great vitamin to boost our immune system as it supports both innate and adaptive cellular functions. High-dose Vitamin C can be beneficial in decreasing the chance of getting a flu.