The immune system is the body's first line of defense, detecting and challenging harmful organisms and substances and assisting in destroying and removing them from the body. Stress, depression and convalescence can weaken the immune system. In addition to a healthy diet, supplements that may aid in strengthening it include vitamin C, echinacea and ginseng, although there is insufficient evidence to support this. Consult your doctor before using any of these supplements.
Vitamin C
Although vitamin C is believed by the general public to boost functioning of the immune system and to help protect the body against viral infections and other diseases, studies confirming vitamin C as an immune enhancer are conflicting. Some prospective studies, or observational studies in which people are interviewed and tested from time to time, do give indications that vitamin C helps protect people against stroke, coronary heart disease, most types of cancer, cataracts and gout. Vitamin C has been shown to stimulate leukocyte, or white blood cell production, especially neutrophils, which attack harmful viruses and bacteria.
The vitamin C found in fresh fruits and vegetables and synthetic vitamin C in supplements are identical chemically and in their activities. Dosing of this supplement must be determined by your doctor.
Ginseng
Ginseng supplements may boost the immune system, as well as lower blood sugar, according to MayoClinic.org. Because it may lower or raise blood pressure, always check with your doctor before using ginseng supplements. It is the root of the ginseng plant that is used and believed to increase the body's resistance to stress.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 supplements may boost the immune system, but more research is necessary to determine if it actually does. Although CoQ10 is produced by the body, levels decrease with age and with chronic diseases such as cancer, Parkinson's disease, diabetes and HIV/AIDS. Although CoQ10 is necessary for the basic functioning of most cells, always check with your doctor if you should take this supplement.
Echinacea
Animal studies suggest active substances in echinacea boost the immune system, but studies on humans are inconclusive. Although this herb has been used traditionally to treat disease and strengthen the immune system, it can trigger side effects and interact with medications and other treatments. People with diabetes, multiple sclerosis, HIV/AIDS, liver disorders, leukemia, tuberculosis and other diseases should not take echinacea. Always consult your doctor before using this supplement.
Zinc, Astragalus, Garlic and Wild Indigo
Zinc is believed to boost the immune system, but studies have not shown this to be true. Although zinc decreases with age in the body, consult your doctor if you need zinc supplements, for zinc can suppress the body's levels of copper, which fights infection. In high doses, zinc can impede the functioning of the immune system.
Astralgalus, garlic and wild indigo supplements are believed to increase phagocyte activity, which kills harmful cells and increases antibody levels, although scientific evidence for the efficacy of these herbs is lacking. Consult your physician before using these supplements.
References
- Holistic Online: Alternative Medicine for Immune System Strengthening
- Oregon State University Linus Pauling Institute: Vitamin C
- MayoClinic.org: Supplements to Avoid When Dealing with High Blood Pressure
- MayoClinic.com: HIV/AIDS
- MayoClinic.com: Coenzyme Q10
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Echinacea
