2 minute read
Beef up your immune system
Ease symptoms with these supplements
Dr. Kathleen Ireland Gregg
Daily news reports the spread of the coronavirus and the uncertainty of treatment. Although there is no vaccine for the COVID-19 virus and treatment is uncertain, there are over-the-counter supplements that have shown to have antiviral properties and to support the immune system. Although the following have not been validated as effective specifically for COVID-19, they are nevertheless advisable at the onset of symptoms of influenza and viral upper respiratory tract infections and to help maintain a healthy immune system.
1. Zinc: Supports immune system.
2. Garlic: Antiviral. Take with food to minimize stomach irritation.
3. Vitamin C: Fights infection and can lessen cold and flu symptoms. 4
. Vitamin D: Supports immune system. Higher levels associated with decreased risk of seasonal viral infection and acute respiratory infections.
5. Vitamin E: Potent antioxidant. Supports the immune system.
6. Cimetidine: A heartburn drug that has potent immune-enhancing properties. It is sold in pharmacies, over the counter.
7. Melatonin: Helps with sleep, is an antioxidant, supports the immune system. Take at bedtime.
8. Selenium: Powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and immune support.
9. Green Tea: contains a powerful antioxidant called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has been used to fight influenza for the last 4700 years.
10. DHEA: Support for the immune system.
11. Probiotics and prebiotics: Support immune system, and antiviral.
12.Elderberry: Rich source of antioxidants, and can help with influenza.
If you have signs of the flu (sudden high fever, fatigue, cough, congestion, or sore throat), you should call a health care provider immediately.
Dr. Kathleen Ireland Gregg is a Naturopath/Physcotherapist at Health Matters: A Center for Wellness. Reach her at (517) 641-8000 or email: drgregg@healthmattersmi.com
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