Boosting immunity for the whole family

Kids are back in school! While it’s a time of excitement and newness for many families, it can also be a time of new exposures to all those pesky viruses and germs that kids are so effective at transmitting. While most of us have some daily level of exposure to viruses and germs, schools can be a petri dish for those unwelcome visitors. For that reason, boosting immune health (especially during the fall) is a great way to help the body avoid illnesses throughout the winter months.

Boost your intake of nutrient-dense foods by eating an abundance of colorful vegetables to boost your body’s antioxidant capacity (encouraging better cellular health), and your body’s ability to fend off illnesses. In addition, eating healthy fats (fatty fish, avocado, olive oil, nuts), lean protein sources, and whole grains while limiting sugar and processed foods can further encourage your body’s resiliency to fight viruses. And don’t forget the foundations: adequate water intake, prioritizing sleep and exercise, and incorporating daily stress reduction.

In addition to eating a healthy diet, supplements can provide some essential nutrients that may be missing from the diet. Common nutrients that promote healthy immune function include vitamin C and D, multivitamins, zinc, Sambucas, and liquid colloidal silver.

Nutrients we love for Immune Health

Vitamin C acts as a natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory agent in maintaining the body’s antioxidant defense system. It also helps neutralize free radicals, protecting cells from our toxic environment.

Vitamin D influences several essential processes in the body. Adequate levels are needed for immune function and overall health, including prevention of infections caused by bacteria and viruses.

Multi-vitamins can provide the body with a broad spectrum of nutrients that can aid in a multitude of vital body functions. Multi-vitamins can also be a great option for children who are not getting what they need through diet alone. These include the Bio-Immunozyme Forte which delivers echinacea, glandulars to support immunity, B vitamins and probiotics all in one package. Aqueous Multi is a liquid fruit flavored multivitamin which is delicious and easy to use.

Zinc is the body’s most abundant micro-mineral, and responsible for hundreds of vital reactions throughout the body. Zinc specifically works to support healthy white blood cell function, which (in turn) allows the body to adequately respond to pathogens.

Sambucas (also known as Elderberry), is a commonly used botanical due to its high flavonoid and antioxidant compounds. This medicinal flower has potent immune modulation properties while positively impacting inflammation.

Probiotics are a great aid to immune health. Since the gut is the epicenter of the immune system, encouraging healthy microbial balance throughout the gastrointestinal tract supports a heathy immune response and improved digestive function.

Liquid Silver offers potent anti-microbial action in a liquid form, which makes an ideal delivery system for children and people who cannot swallow pills. It is also an effective nasal rinse to flush pathogens from the sinuses.

Try some of our favorite Immune Boosting Products

Liposomal Vitamin C (Designs for Health)

Liposomal D Supreme (Designs for Health)

Aqueous Multi- Plus (Biotics Research)

Bio-Immunozyme Forte (Biotics Research)

Immuno- Zn Lozenge (Designs for Health)

Sambucus Elderberry Gummies or liquid (Nature’s Way)

ProbioMed Kids Probiotic(Designs for Health)

Silvercillin Liquid (Designs for Health)

Try this Kaleidoscope Turkey Loaf , which is rich in colorful antioxidant rich veggies and protein in a tasty package. Its a great way to add a variety of macro and micronutrients to your family’s diet.

To read more about Immune Health check out these blogs:

Getting Strong with Researched- Based Immune Builders

BeyondSupplements: 4 Holistic ways to support your Immune System

If you would like more detailed guidance on how to help your children/family stay healthy this winter, please schedule an Initial Consultation with one of our Clinical Nutritionists or if you have questions about how we can help, sign up for a Free 15 minute Consult with BeWell Founder, Monica Montag, CN by calling 814-234-0785 or email bewell@bewellassociates.com.

Danielle Preissing, MS, CNS, LN (Written for BeWell Associates)