The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) name type A and B influenza viruses as the reason for flu epidemics around the world. The CDC recommends getting a flu vaccine, covering your sneeze or cough with your elbow or sleeve and frequent hand-washing to prevent the flu. It does not list vitamins as a prevention, however, some vitamins may help maintain a healthy immune system that may resist illnesses more effectively.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A helps maintain the lining of the respiratory system. It also prevents and helps fight infections by making white blood cells, states the Office of Dietary Supplements. White blood cells may fight and destroy bacteria and viruses, such as influenza. It also helps keep mucous membranes and skin intact that act as barriers against infections.
Vitamin C
Large doses of vitamin C may help prevent and relieve symptoms of the flu, states the Orthomolecular Medicine News Service. Fighting the virus may take exceptionally high doses to be effective. It recommends 20,000 to 100,000mg per day, taken in several doses throughout the day. The large dose appears to be well tolerated at times when the immune system is compromised. Vitamin C should be taken orally and frequently to maintain adequate concentrations in your system.
Vitamin D
The Harvard School of Public Health state that recent studies show that vitamin D may play a critical role in seasonal illnesses, such as the flu. During the winter months most people are low in vitamin D. It cites a Japanese study giving individuals 1,200 IU of vitamin D daily over four months. The test group showed a decrease in type A influenza over the course of the study.
References
- Harvard School of Public Health: The Nutrition Source: Vitamin D and Health
- Orthomolecular.org: Orthomolecular Medicine News Service: Vitamins Reduce the Duration and Severity of Influenza
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Seasonal Influenza
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin A and Carotenoids
