Vitamins for Immune Support: C, D and Zinc
Drop your toilet paper, Clorox wipes, hand sanitizer and any other products to rid of germs and take a deep breath, relax and say, “Everything will be alright.” We want you to take about 5-10 minutes and read this blog on immune support using Vitamin C, D, and Zinc sources. We are not going to talk about washing your hands, disinfecting everything in plain site or how to cough/sneeze into your elbow. We know that is all the media is talking, so we are going to discuss an important key factor that the media isn’t discussing. We are not going to be talking about Coronavirus, but rather, discuss vitamins for immune support that will help with ANY virus!
Just last week, in correspondence to the Coronavirus outbreak, we came across the Journal of Expert Review of Anti-infective Therapy thatreleased an article in October 2019 on the effectiveness and importance of taking Vitamin C to both reduce and avoid the spread of antiviral infections. It talks about how Vitamin C fights off infection and lowers inflammation levels killing of viruses and results in boosted immunity. This article is not limited to the coronavirus, but rather all viral infections. At Wilkins Spinal Care, we look for the most up to date information to provide the best care possible for our patients. The link to this research article is posted below in the sources section.
Vitamin C
The first of our vitamins for immune support is vitamin C. Vitamin C is essential for several different functions including growth of tissue, bones, teeth, etc., but another huge function is immune support. Vitamin C helps in the production of White Blood Cells and helps fight off infection (viral, bacterial, fungal, etc.). We can find sources of Vitamin C in foods such as: broccoli, cantaloupe, cauliflower, kale, kiwi, orange juice, papaya, red, green or yellow pepper, sweet potato, strawberries and tomatoes.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D’s main function is calcium absorption to promote bone growth, however, problems can arise if one is deficient in Vitamin D. Studies show that low Vitamin D is associated with autoimmune disorders such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, arthritic conditions etc. Autoimmune conditions are when the immune system is attacking the body, weakening the body further, therefore, resulting in a weakened immune system. We can find sources of Vitamin D in foods such as: fatty fish, like tuna, mackerel, and salmon, some dairy products, orange juice, soy milk, beef liver, cheese and egg yolks. Further, the best source of Vitamin D is sunlight. Just spending 15 minutes outside every day in the sun will provide the daily requirements. However, in the winter when the sun is further away from earth, its harder to get Vitamin D which is why we turn our attention to foods and FDA approved supplements.
Zinc
Zinc’s function is to allow cell growth, wound healing and absorption of carbohydrates, but the primary function is defending the immune system. Zinc is the best source used to boost the immune system and keep you healthy! We can find sources of Zinc in foods such as: red meat poultry beans, nuts, certain types of seafood (such as crab and lobster), whole grains and dairy products. Oysters contain more food than any other source, but how often do we find oysters?
Will Getting These Nutrients From Food Be Enough
Yes! It’s actually better to get your vitamin and mineral source from food. However, not many people will apply that either because it will require a dietary change, or they just don’t consume enough food to begin with. In addition, when we become sick, nutrients such as Vitamin C, D and zinc are the first to be depleted because they are what is fighting off the virus the immune system is dealing with it. Supplementation of these essentials will continue to give daily requirements and better fight an infection.
How Can Wilkins Spinal Care Help?
Being Science Based Nutrition providers gives us access to top of the line products on a variety of supplements including vitamins, minerals, etc. Vitamin C, D, Zinc and other immune support supplements are just a few of about 100 supplements we use to give people a healthier lifestyle and boost the immune system. To order your vitamins for immune support and to stay on top of your health, give us a call at (724) 547-3377.