Vitamin C is one of the biggest immune system boosters of all. In fact, a lack of vitamin C can even make you more prone to getting sick. Foods rich in vitamin C include oranges, grapefruits, tangerines, strawberries, bell peppers, spinach, kale and broccoli. Daily intake of vitamin C is essential for good health because your body doesn’t produce or store it, however, there are many foods that we eat that contain vitamin C so its not necessary to take vitamin C supplements unless you’re wanting to boost your immune system or if your doctor advises it. Even though vitamin C is the biggest immune system booster, it isn’t the only source of your immune support. 

Vitamin B6 plays a key role in brain development and keeping the nervous system functioning properly, however it also plays a vital role in supporting the immune system. Vitamin B6 supports all the biochemical reactions in your immune system which keeps it functioning properly. Taking a B6 supplement a day not only can help with the function of your immune system but it can also help with stress and decrease the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Vitamin B6 rich containing foods include chicken, salmon, and tuna and its also contained in leafy green vegetables and chickpeas.
            One of the most common deficiencies seen in adults is vitamin D especially in the winter time when the sun is out less. Research has shown that D3 deficiency is specifically associated with an increase of autoimmunity, when the body starts to attack itself which can lead to infections. Vitamin D turns on key peptides in your immune system that trigger a strong anti-microbial response, allowing you to quickly fight off invaders before they can develop into an infection. 

NAC (N-acetyl L-cysteine) also plays a vital role in the immune system. NAC is a form of the amino acid cysteine and helps produce glutathione which is a potent antioxidant need for an ideal immune system. Research on certain diseases associated with NAC and glutathione deficiency suggest that taking a NAC supplement can potentially restore your immune system. 

Of all the supplements mentioned, one of the most effective immune boosters is a probiotic. Probiotic is known for keeping a healthy gut and most doctors would recommend taking a probiotic a day. Probiotics in the GI tract help to reinforce the barrier function of the intestinal lining, lowering the chance of bacteria in the intestines entering into the bloodstream. Of all the bacterial strains, four have been proven by research studies to significantly impact the immune system:

Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG

Bifidobacterium animalis

Lactobacillus paracasei

Lactobacillus acidophilus

If you’re in need of a good probiotic, Pharmacy Solutions offers many that are targeted towards immune health! Keeping up with your immune health yearly is important so be sure to talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have!