Your immune system provides the first line of defense against pathogens that can attack your body, and for the most part, it does an excellent job of protecting you. If you live a healthy lifestyle by eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, not smoking, drinking alcohol only in moderation and getting enough sleep, your immune system is most likely working just fine. However, as you age, your immune system becomes less efficient, making it easier for you to pick up an infection. Ask your doctor first, but there are some supplements that might boost immune function.
Astragalus
Astragalus is a perennial herb grown in parts of China, Korea and Mongolia. The roots of astragalus have been harvested for centuries for use in herbal remedies. It is chock-full of antioxidants and is an adaptogenic herb, meaning it is thought to act to protect your body against various stressors. It has been used successfully to improve immune function in patients whose immune systems were impacted by chemotherapy drugs and radiation therapy. It also has been shown to have some protective properties against cold and flu viruses. Do not take astragalus if you are pregnant, breast-feeding or taking immune system suppressants.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a well-known herb popularly used in cold and flu supplements. It's a member of the daisy family and also is known as the coneflower. It grows all over the Midwestern U.S., and all parts of this plant are collected for use in herbal medicines. Echinacea contains compounds that stimulate your body's production of interferon and boosts white blood cell production, improving immune system response. Echinacea is considered to be effective in fighting off upper-respiratory infections. Do not use echinacea if you are pregnant, nursing, taking immunosuppressant drugs or have HIV/AIDS, multiple sclerosis, leukemia, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is one of the fat-soluble vitamins needed for healthy skin, bones and eyes. Vitamin A is available as a dietary supplement, but also occurs naturally in a number of foods, including eggs, liver and whole-fat dairy products. It occurs as beta-carotene, which your body converts to Vitamin A, in brightly colored fruits and vegetables, including carrots, sweet potatoes, red bell peppers, broccoli and pink grapefruit. Vitamin A assists the immune system by maintaining the surfaces of the eyes and mucous membranes of the digestive, urinary and respiratory tracts. Take Vitamin A under you physician's supervision, as taking too much can be toxic.
Zinc
Zinc is an essential mineral not produced by your body. Zinc plays an important role in the functioning of your immune system. When zinc levels are low, some of the cells in the immune system, including the T-cells, do not function properly. Zinc is found in foods such as oysters and beef. It can also be purchased as a dietary supplement by itself or in products to fight cold and flu viruses, often in tandem with echinacea. Get your doctor's advice, as high zinc levels actually can inhibit the immune system.
