The Top Nutritional Supplements to Strengthen Immunity

Are you missing essential nutrients like calcium, potassium, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, and D? If so, you're not alone. Most Americans struggle to get all the essential nutrients they need from their diet alone.

While nutritional supplements aren't intended to replace food, they can be helpful if you lack certain nutrients due to your age or lifestyle. Supplements can provide the boost your body needs to stay healthy and thriving.

Did you know that deficiencies in essential vitamins can weaken your immune system? 

At Ageless Restoration in Norman, Oklahoma, providers Gordon Hart, PA-C, and Brian A. Yeaman, MD, are here to help. Consider taking nutritional supplements if you're looking for ways to support your immune system function. 

Boost your immune system with nutritional supplements

Vitamins that strengthen immunity don't need to be complicated. Here are some of the top nutrients that keep your immune system healthy and strong.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is vital for cell growth and immune function. It's divided into compounds that have overall effects (like retinol) and those that perform specific functions. 

For instance, retinoic acid from retinol is crucial for skin and mucous membrane health. When converted to retinal, it's essential for vision. Night blindness is the first sign of vitamin A deficiency, leading to blindness, reproductive issues, bone damage, and severe immune disorders. 

Some foods that provide vitamin A include:

• Leafy greens 
• Tomatoes
• Squash
• Red bell pepper
• Cantaloupe
• Milk
• Fish oils
• Eggs

Vitamin C

Vitamin C consists of ascorbic acid. It helps form connective tissue and hormones, is involved in detoxification reactions in the liver, promotes iron absorption from food, and strengthens the immune system. But its greatest importance in the body is as an antioxidant. 

Antioxidants neutralize aggressive particles formed in the body or from the environment, the so-called free radicals. In addition to vitamin C, vitamins A and E, selenium, and secondary plant substances are also part of the body's system of free radical scavengers.

Fresh fruit and vegetables are the best sources of vitamin C, including:

• Cherries
• Citrus
• Pepper
• Fennel
• Cabbage
• Spinach
• Tomatoes

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a powerful nutrient that can enhance the pathogen-fighting effects of white blood cells and can reduce inflammation.

Vitamin D deficiency is common, severely affecting the immune function. The risk of respiratory tract infections, like the flu and allergic asthma, increases if you have low levels of vitamin D.

Supplementing with vitamin D has been shown to enhance immune response and safeguard against respiratory infections. Not only that, but vitamin D supplements may also enhance the response to antiviral treatments for certain conditions, such as hepatitis C and HIV.

Some examples of foods rich in vitamin D are:

• Fish
• Oysters
• Eggs
• Mushrooms
• Butter

How to use nutritional supplements to boost immunity

When choosing the supplements, consider your specific nutrient deficiencies and the severity of your symptoms. Our dedicated specialists work closely with you to determine the best course of action.

We might recommend once-a-week intravenous (IV) therapy sessions. This method can quickly and efficiently deliver essential vitamins and minerals into your bloodstream. IV therapy rapidly alleviates your symptoms by bypassing your digestive system. 

Besides IV therapy, you may also benefit from over-the-counter clinical-grade dietary supplements.  

Don't let nutrient deficiencies hold you back. Discover how supplements can support your overall well-being and fill the gaps in your diet.

Are you ready to learn more about the nutritional vitamins and supplements that we offer at Ageless Restoration? Take the first step by scheduling an appointment. You can use our online system or call us today. Start your journey toward improved health today.