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Immunity enhancing supplements -

Several studies suggest that low zinc levels can increase the risk of viral infections. Some also show that zinc lozenges may shorten the duration of the common cold. However, identifying the best dosages for supporting immune health and treating colds will require further research.

We know that they play a key role in helping maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut, and new research supports the idea that they have beneficial effects on immunity. For example, one study from — carried out, it must be noted, by a company that produces probiotics — found that probiotic use may reduce the incidence and duration of upper respiratory infections.

The authors call for more research to establish a relationship between probiotics and the immune system. Many people are taking one or a combination of supplements to prevent or treat COVID But there is not enough data to support the use of any vitamin, herb, or other supplement to treat or prevent this illness.

Only vaccines , together with strict hygiene measures , are proven to help prevent COVID For severe cases of COVID, doctors may use specific medications.

Research does suggest that supplementation with vitamins and minerals can be a low-cost way to support optimal immune function.

Even supplementation with vitamins C and D above the current RDAs may be beneficial to the immune system, as long as dosages stay below the recommended safety limits. Many supplements can interact with medications and other supplements. And combining different supplements can also lead to very high amounts of certain nutrients in the body, which can have potentially severe side effects.

For example, excess vitamin C is excreted in the urine and usually causes no serious side effects. But very high amounts can cause diarrhea , abdominal pain, and nausea. Too much vitamin D — more than 4, IU or mcg — can be harmful and lead to nausea, vomiting, kidney stones , confusion, loss of appetite, and muscle weakness.

Very high levels can even lead to kidney failure, an abnormal heartbeat, and death. Vitamin D also interacts with medications, such as the weight loss pill orlistat Alli, Xenical , steroids , and cholesterol-lowering statins.

If a person has too much zinc, it can cause negative effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headaches. Over time, excess zinc can lead to low copper levels, decreased immunity, and lower levels of helpful cholesterol.

Zinc can also interact with other medications. Probiotics are safe for most people. However, they may worsen illnesses or cause bacterial infections in people who have very weak immune systems or are severely ill. This can involve :. There is no evidence that mega-doses of vitamins and nutrients can boost the immune system.

The best way to ensure that the immune system functions well is to have a balanced diet, get enough sleep, exercise, and take the vaccinations that are offered. Anyone with nutrient deficiencies who is unable to have a healthy, balanced diet may find it beneficial to take a daily multivitamin.

But though some research shows that getting more than the RDAs of vitamins C and D might help support immune health, confirming this requires more research. If a person thinks they have a nutrient deficiency, they should consider speaking with a doctor about having a blood test.

This will help pinpoint any deficiencies and determine the right approach to supplementation. Before taking any supplement, a person should have a conversation with a primary care doctor who is familiar with their medical history. In this Honest Nutrition feature, we look at how much protein a person needs to build muscle mass, what the best protein sources are, and what risks….

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Share on Pinterest Design by Diego Sabogal. Dietary supplements and immunity. Can probiotics help the immune system? Can supplements protect against COVID? In fact, the standard disclaimer on supplements' claims of immune-boosting properties says: "This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA.

This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Yet sellers are allowed to use phrases like "boosts immune function" and "supports immune health.

More importantly, they're confusing:. Unless you have a deficiency in a key nutrient, such as vitamin C or zinc, the short answer is no. That is, there's no convincing evidence that any particular product meaningfully improves immune function in healthy people. For example, results of studies looking at various supplements for colds and other similar infections have been mixed at best.

Even when taking a particular supplement was linked to reduced severity or duration of an infection like a cold, there's no proof that the supplement boosted overall immune function. This goes for individual foods as well.

None has ever been shown to improve immune function on its own. It's the overall quality of your diet , not individual foods, that matters most. A similar approach applies to advice on foods you should avoid, such as sugary drinks or highly processed meats: the best foods to avoid in support of your immune system are the same ones you should be limiting anyway.

It's not a secret and it's not a product. What's good for your overall health is good for immune function.

The best ways to keep your immune system at peak performance are:. This list probably looks familiar. These measures have long been recommended for overall health, and can do a lot to help many of us. Certain illnesses — HIV, some cancers, and autoimmune disorders — or their treatments can affect how well the immune system works.

So some people may need additional help from medications and therapies, which could truly count as immune boosting. Perhaps there will come a time when we'll know how to boost immune function beyond following routine health measures. That's simply not the case now.

Until we know more, I wouldn't rely on individual foods, detox programs, oral supplements, or on-demand IV drips to keep your immune system healthy, especially when there are far more reliable options. Robert H. Shmerling, MD , Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing.

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Shining light on night blindness. Can watching sports be bad for your health? Beyond the usual suspects for healthy resolutions. September 11, By Robert H. Shmerling, MD , Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing Ever see ads for products that promise to supercharge immunity?

IV drips, supplements, cleanses, and superfoods The lineup of immune-boosting products and advice includes: Home intravenous IV drips. Want a health professional to come to your home with IV fluids containing various vitamins and supplements? That's available in many US cities, and some companies claim their formula is designed to supercharge immunity.

These on-demand IV treatments aren't risk-free and can be quite expensive. Vitamins and supplements.

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