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Supplements to boost your immune system against the coronavirus

19 March 2020

The most serious cases of COVID-19 show that a weak immune system leaves you more likely to contract the respiratory infection. It is important to strengthen your immune system. You can fill nutritional gaps by taking a selection of vitamins. Here are a few tips on which vitamins can boost your immune function.

Vitamin C

An essential nutrient, vitamin C acts as an antioxidant. Antioxidants help fight free radicals, a molecule known to damage the immune system.

In addition to fighting free radicals, there is evidence that vitamin C may be particularly helpful in boosting the immune systems of people under major stress.

Vitamin D

Our bodies need adequate vitamin D to produce the antimicrobial proteins that kill viruses and bacteria. If we don’t have adequate vitamin D, our bodies are less effective at producing these proteins and more susceptible to infection.

Zinc

Zinc has the natural ability to help the immune system function efficiently. Zinc is required for optimal function of white blood cells that protect the body from illness and infection.

Iron

Iron is an essential mineral that helps to transport oxygen throughout the body. This is fundamental to the growth of B-cells and T-cells that are major cellular components the immune system.

Vitamin E

Like vitamin C, vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant. Research suggests maintaining an adequate level of vitamin E is crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system, especially among older people.

Multivitamins

Adequate micronutrients in the body help the immune system to function at best. When there is a deficiency of micronutrients in the body, immunity is suppressed, leaving the body susceptible to illness.

Probiotics

Probiotics are bacteria that typically inhabit the gut and optimise the immune system. About 70% of the immune system is controlled by the gut. The friendly bacteria adjust the immune system by increasing the number of white blood cells.

For more information on coronavirus, visit the NICD website www.nicd.ac.za or call 011 386 6400.