As a naturopathic doctor I wanted to share my nutraceutical and botanical knowledge to support your good health during this unprecedented flu season in the face of COVID-19.
First and foremost stay healthy by eating healthy!!! Get plenty of fresh air and exercise, practice good hygiene (washing hands, covering coughs, etc), and take your vitamins!
The two vitamins with the strongest evidence for immune support are Vitamin D and Vitamin C. During flu season I recommend taking only high quality products such as those in our dispensary. Unfortunately, quality (effectiveness and stated dose) may vary widely for these over the counter supplements. Basically, you get what you pay for.
I have added a selection of immune boosting and respiratory support recommendations on our Wellevate (online dispensary). You may search each product or select the Protocol “Immune and Respiratory Support” for a complete care package. Follow the link below or click on the Dispensary button on our website. We offer 10% discount on all products. These products are flying off the shelf so get them while you can on our online dispensary at:
Vitamin D by Thorne
Vitamin D plays an important role throughout life, beginning with fetal development.* Vitamin D supports a number of important functions in the body.* In addition to supporting healthy bones and muscles, it supports cardiovascular health and immune function.*
Although direct sunlight provides natural vitamin D, many individuals of all ages, especially the elderly, do not get enough vitamin D from sunlight and their diet. Vitamin D supplementation can be of great benefit in these situations.* Thorne's Vitamin D-5000 contain no lactose or preservatives (BHA, BHT, sodium benzoate, etc) for individuals who are sensitive to those ingredients. Adults can take 2000 IU to 5000 IU daily.
Vitamin C
Any high quality vitamin C will do. Also known as ascorbic acid, Vitamin C is necessary for the growth, development and repair of all body tissues. It's involved in many body functions such as the immune system, formation of collagen, absorption of iron, wound healing, and the maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth. Adults can take 1000 mg daily.
N-Acetyl Cysteine
N-Acetyl Cysteine supports healthy lung function, the immune system and liver function.* NAC is also a powerful antioxidant.* It maintains and supports normal physiologic levels of mucus in the sinus and respiratory system of healthy individuals.* NAC increases levels of glutathione (a potent antioxidant) in the body and maintains healthy lung and liver function.* My preferred brand is by Vital Nutrients. Take as directed.
Curcumin
Curcumin helps maintain a healthy inflammatory response throughout the body.*
I have a couple favorite curcumin products. One is Meriva 500-SF by Thorne. Meriva is the most clinically studied curcumin on the market with 29x greater absorption than ordinary curcumin.* Take as directed.
The other curcumin product is CuraPro by Euromedica. This is a potent formula and well absorbed. Take 1 capsule daily.
Boswellia
Boswellia extract that has been chemically bound to phospholipids to increase its absorption - Casperome® – its trade name – has been clinically studied to determine its ability to provide a healthy balance of inflammatory cytokines, which are the chemical messengers that control the responses of the immune system. Studies on the brand name Boswellia Phytosome by Thorne have shown that Boswellia supports a healthy inflammatory response in the respiratory tract and the GI tract, as well as in the joints, muscles, and tendons.* Boswellia also helps balance the cerebral inflammatory response to protect brain tissue.* There are several products out there. Take as directed on the bottle. A great article on the scientific evidence on Boswellia can be found here: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326599
BioInflaMax™ by Biogenesis
BioInflaMax™ Capsules features a blend of herbs, enzymes, and other select ingredients to provide nutritive support for body comfort.* This is a natural alternative or adjunct to NSAIDS.
ImmunoBerry
ImmunoBerry™ Liquid provides immune support in a pleasant tasting liquid. Research suggests that certain herbs, mushrooms and other natural compounds have the ability to support normal immune functions such as natural killer (NK) cell activity, cytokine synthesis, and the T-cell and B-cell mediated responses.* Ingredients such as elderberry, shiitake and wild cherry bark are known for their beneficial effects for maintaining a healthy immune system.*
Gaia Herbs Bronchial Wellness Syrup
Gaia Herbs Bronchial Wellness Syrup is a comforting blend of herbs traditionally used for respiratory health.*
Of course, I must add the necessary disclaimer:
*THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION. THESE PRODUCTS ARE NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE, OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE.
In support of your good health,
Christine James, ND
Medical Director & Owner
