#Prepare #fight #infections
THE EVENTS OF THE LAST EIGHTEEN MONTHS HAVE SHOWED US THAT IF WE WANT TO ENJOY LIFE TO THE FULLY AND AVOID INFECTIONS, IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO TAKE CARE OF OUR HEALTH AND STRENGTHEN OUR immunity. IN ADDITION TO THE WELL-KNOWN MECHANISM OF ACTION OF “OLD” PATHOGENS, WE ARE WARNED ABOUT NEWLY EMERGING VARIANTS WHOSE POTENTIAL ATTACKS MAY APPEAR THIS AUTUMN. THEREFORE, IT IS WORTH TO PREPARE IN ADVANCE AND SUPPORT YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM WITH vitamins, MINERAL INGREDIENTS AND PLANT INGREDIENTS WHICH HAVE SO FAR PROVEN TO BE EXTREMELY EFFECTIVE IN THEIR ACTION.
vitamin c
Vitamin C has many beneficial properties and is the “golden mean” when it comes to the prevention of colds and flu. It also helps to defeat existing infections. It supports the immune system by increasing the activity of white blood cells that fight bacteria and viruses. Studies have shown that people who regularly took higher doses of vitamin C tended to have milder illnesses, experienced fewer symptoms and recovered faster from colds compared to people who did not supplement them. Research results suggest that taking a high dose of vitamin C is an effective method of preventing infections.
vitamin D
Vitamin D has long been known as a substance with a strong immunostimulating effect. No wonder it is recommended to prevent colds and other respiratory infections. It increases the body’s defense against respiratory pathogens, making it difficult for them to penetrate the mucous membranes. It enhances a specific immune response by activating T lymphocytes, which helps fight infections. When an infection begins in the body, it usually responds with inflammation. Vitamin D inhibits the release of pro-inflammatory molecules in the body responsible for the development of such inflammation. This is a very important function of this vitamin, which prevents the development of serious conditions caused by high concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines produced by the body during the so-called “cytokine storm”. Yet another study showed that people who had adequate levels of vitamin D in their blood had less severe infectious diseases. Low vitamin D levels have been found in patients with severe pneumonia, sepsis, metabolic disorders and heart failure, and have even been associated with higher mortality. To sum up, we can say that low vitamin D levels may influence the development and progression of severe viral infections.
zinc and selenium
Of all the trace elements needed for the functioning of our body, zinc and selenium are definitely the most important allies of the immune system. Regular intake of zinc can reduce the reproductive capacity of bacteria responsible for the development of pneumonia, as well as other pathogens, inhibiting the occurrence of respiratory infections. Therefore, it is assumed that zinc plays an important role in accelerating recovery and alleviating the symptoms of respiratory infections. On the other hand, deficiency of this ingredient weakens the immune system and increases the risk of upper respiratory tract infections. Selenium is commonly referred to as the “viral contraceptive” due to its extraordinary ability to hinder the replication and reproduction of pathogens in our bodies. A few years ago, a study was carried out to check whether the level of selenium in Europeans had an impact on the spread of influenza. It turned out that the flu spread more in places where people had low concentrations of this ingredient. Over recent decades, the selenium content in soil has decreased significantly, which has also resulted in a reduced amount of selenium in food. It is worth carefully observing and controlling the concentration of this mineral.
elderberry
Known for its strong properties in alleviating flu symptoms and shortening the duration of viral infection (up to four days!). Research suggests that by taking elderberry, you can reduce the amount of medications prescribed to relieve symptoms and lower the risk of complications. Moreover, together with echinacea, elderberry significantly strengthens the functioning of the immune system and improves defense mechanisms in the fight against influenza viruses, hindering their replication and inhibiting the occurrence of some bacterial infections that may develop as a consequence of viral infections.
Cat’s claw
Cat’s Claw, originating from South America, has been known for its medicinal properties for over two thousand years. It strengthens immunity, has anti-inflammatory properties, and is used as a treatment for infections. New research has shown that it is effective in the fight against H1N1, inhibits the replication of the virus and the development of the disease.
quercetin
Quercetin is a flavonoid naturally found in the peels of fruits and vegetables. There are many benefits to taking quercetin. It has antioxidant properties and can also support the body fighting infection. It not only supports and regulates the function of the immune system, but also has a broad spectrum of activity against pathogens. In addition, it is able to reduce the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines and prevents blood clotting. Studies conducted on physically fit people over the age of 40 showed that people taking large amounts of quercetin experienced milder symptoms and recovered faster from upper respiratory infections compared to people who did not take quercetin. Remember to take the appropriate portion of vitamins, minerals and other substances with physiological effects, including selected plant ingredients, so that infections are not a problem for you!
