Top 5 Supplements to Fight the Flu
When the flu hits, even getting out of bed feels like a challenge. Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help with symptoms, but they don’t address the root cause. And since the flu is a virus, antibiotics won’t help. Fortunately, certain supplements can boost your immune system and help you recover faster.
1. Mushrooms
As a food, mushrooms are an excellent source of B vitamins, trace minerals, protein, and fiber. They contain beta-glucans, miraculous polysaccharides that keep your immune system strong. While they are a tasty addition to soups and stews, consuming a combination of mushrooms in a supplement is powerful when fighting the flu. Examples of mushrooms found in supplements include:
- Reishi mushrooms contain anti-inflammatory properties that help fight the flu and are beneficial for asthma, bronchitis, heart health, and adrenal support
- Shiitakes are antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal. They function as antioxidants to provide energy, balance your blood sugar, and contain all of the essential amino acids, linoleic acid, B vitamins, zinc, selenium, copper, and manganese
- Cordyceps increase stamina and are used in anti-aging nutrition because they help produce ATP, which is essential for helping our mitochondria function at optimal levels
- Maitakes help combat the flu and reduce side effects of chemotherapy and radiation
- Oyster mushrooms ease muscle aches and joint pain, while providing a good source of iron
- Cremini (white button) mushrooms are rich in linolenic acid and minerals such as copper, potassium, protein, selenium, phosphorus, zinc, niacin (vitamin B3), and pantothenic acid (vitamin B5)
- Lion's Mane stimulates your immune system and promotes the growth and function of nerve cells, while relieving joint inflammation (i.e., arthritis) and gastrointestinal problems
2. Vitamin C
This one might be obvious, but it's a "tried and true" remedy and deserves its place among the "top five." The trick is to take the right vitamin C. First, be careful with chewable tablets because they often contain sweeteners such as sugar or worse (i.e., fructose, dextrose, sucralose, and other horrible concoctions). Secondly, the type of vitamin C that you take is important. Ascorbic acid is great and certainly cost-effective, but if you have problems with digestion, liposomal vitamin C is a better option for you. Additionally, taking vitamin C in conjunction with bioflavonoids dramatically helps to increase absorption and bioavailability.
3. Oregano Oil
The extract of the oregano herb can treat all respiratory problems besides the flu, such as coughs, colds, sore throats, pneumonia, and bronchitis. The active oils in oregano - thymol and carvacrol - have antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It stimulates sweating, a natural detox mechanism that can help to reduce fever. Oregano oil is also great for digestion, as it calms nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
4. Vitamin D3
Taking vitamin D3 is especially important in the winter or climates with very little sun exposure. Vitamin D3 is a steroid that naturally balances the hormones in your body while stimulating your immune system.
Inflammation is reduced because D3 lowers cytokine proteins, while simultaneously increasing your level of antimicrobial proteins that destroy viruses. For optimal absorption, choose vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) over D2. A daily dose of 2,000–5,000 IU is safe for most adults and may help prevent flu-related complications like pneumonia.
5. B Complex
Taking a B complex daily helps fight the flu and increases energy, nerve conduction, and circulation. Instead of taking individual B vitamins, a B complex ensures you get the proper balance. For better absorption and efficiency, look for folate as opposed to folic acid, and methylcobalmin (B12) as opposed to cyanocobalmin (B9).
Stay Healthy and Strengthen Your Immunity
The supplements listed above are generally safe and well-tolerated, but consult a healthcare provider before adding them to your routine if you take medications.
For personalized recommendations or more information, contact our office today. We are happy to help.
