The winter season, even in warmer climates, carries an increased risk of ailments which can tax the immune system and cause bouts of infirmity, such as upper respiratory tract infections. Here, we look at why immune health is especially important in the winter, and then we describe five supplements which can be of significant immune benefit during this season, which in warmer climes can often be accompanied by fluctuating temperatures and conditions that can really tax your immune system.
The Importance of Winter Immunity
The outdoor winter elements and resulting lifestyle choices which many people make can coalesce, resulting in an increased risk of infection. The common cold is most common in the winter. The yearly flu, respiratory syntactical virus (RSV), and other types of infection also become more common in winter.
Cold, dry weather is a primary factor in this pattern; certain elements in the body’s immune system do not function as efficiently in winter weather as they do in warmer seasons.
Viral particles also spread farther in winter air. Another factor causing increased risk of infection in winter is the tendency of most people to stay inside longer, where it is easier for viral agents to gather. For these reasons, it is worth making an extra effort to support your immune system this winter. Taking care of your body by eating a variety of natural foods and getting sufficient sleep is highly recommended.
When indoors, it is helpful to keep your indoor air clean by opening a window, and/or by using your clean and maintained air conditioning system.
Supplements for Winter Immunity
Your body’s built-in immune system is supported by a variety of vitamins and minerals. These do not activate the immune system (as it is already active), but they enable it to function robustly. Following are five of the most helpful nutrient supplements for your immune system to work well during the winter months.
Vitamin D is a necessary vitamin which many of us get from regular time spent in sunlight. Naturally, more time spent indoors in the winter season could lead to a deficiency in some people. Supplementing with vitamin D can help remedy a deficiency, and it could therefore reduce risk of respiratory infections. Vitamin D supports immunity and is a good compliment to a healthy diet in the winter.
Zinc is a mineral that plays a direct role in the work of the immune system. Oral zinc is helpful to take merely for this reason. It can also be ingested when cold symptoms first appear. Doing so can reduce the duration of a cold. Zinc lozenges are the easiest form of zinc to consume.
Vitamin C possesses antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties which support immunity. Multiple studies show that daily vitamin C supplementation can reduce the risk of contracting the common cold during winter months, especially for anyone deficient in vitamin C. Some evidence suggests that vitamin C can reduce the duration and severity of the cold.
Probiotic bacteria in the form of an oral supplement can benefit the immune system. These are positive bacteria that bolster the gut, and in turn, the immune system. A probiotic supplement might help prevent an upper respiratory tract infection.
Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil are recommended for winter immunity. These healthy fats benefit the immune system by supporting the absorption of other fat-soluble nutrients such as vitamin D.
Winter season brings with it there is an increased risk of respiratory tract infections. To support your immune system, consider the five nutrient supplements discussed above and their assistive role to a healthy lifestyle pattern this winter. Consider discussing your use of any of these natural remedies with your personal physician before trying them.