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Supplements to Enhance Immune Function for Infection-Prone Individuals

Explore various supplements to boost the immune system and combat frequent infections, such as Vitamin C, D, E, zinc, selenium, omega-3s, probiotics, garlic, and elderberry. Consult a healthcare professional to tailor supplement use to personal health needs.

  • Infection-prone. Any Supplement Advice?

    I tend to be prone to easily getting infections - bacterial prostatitis at least twice a year and a few sinus infections each year. I’ve been taking Now Foods Prostate Health (lycopene, saw palmetto, beta-sitosterol), which I am considering dropping. Does anyone have input on supplements to generally help build my body’s ability to fight off infections? TIA!

    Edit - I failed to mention, I also take zinc, magnesium glycinate, selenium, D/K2

  • To boost your body's ability to fight infections, there are several supplements that may enhance immune function:

    1. Vitamin C: This vitamin is known for its role in supporting the immune system. It acts as a powerful antioxidant and contributes to immune defense by supporting various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune systems12.

    2. Vitamin D: You are already taking vitamin D, which is beneficial as it plays a pivotal role in modulating the immune response. It helps enhance the pathogen-fighting effects of monocytes and macrophages — white blood cells that are important in the immune defense34.

    3. Vitamin E: Similar to vitamin C, vitamin E is an antioxidant that can help combat oxidative stress and support the immune system5.

    4. Zinc: You mentioned already taking zinc, which is excellent because it is crucial for normal development and function of cells mediating innate immunity, such as neutrophils and natural killer cells5.

    5. Selenium: This mineral also plays a critical role in immune function, and supplementation might enhance immunity and potentially protect against pathogens5.

    6. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These have anti-inflammatory properties that can help regulate the immune system. They may also help reduce the severity of infections5.

    7. Probiotics: Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome with probiotics can also improve your immune response and help prevent infections5.

    8. Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic has been used to help prevent colds and other illnesses5.

    9. Elderberry: This supplement may have antiviral properties and may help reduce the length and severity of colds and flu5.

    Consider consulting with a healthcare professional before adding new supplements to ensure they won't interfere with your current regimen and to tailor the approach to your specific health needs.

    Footnotes

    1. Office of Dietary Supplements - Vitamin effects on the immune system ↩

    2. The Effect of a Multivitamin and Mineral Supplement on Immune Function in Healthy Older Adults ↩

    3. National Institutes of Health - Dietary Supplements for Immune Function and Infectious Diseases ↩

    4. Vitamin effects on the immune system: vitamins A and D take centre stage ↩

    5. Immune-boosting role of vitamins and minerals ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7

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