There are many nutritional supplements available today that can prevent you from getting sick during the cold and flu season. It has never been more important to protect yourself and strengthen your immune system. With the appearance of new and more dangerous respiratory infections the common cold could open the door to something more serious. Prevention and quick treatment can make a big difference. Here we will share some important information about supplements that can help keep you healthy during this cold and flu season.
Healthy Immune Function
The human body has a wonderful multi-layered immune system that fights off illness and infection every day. Our white blood cells, antibodies and biochemical defense mechanisms are challenged more than usual during the cold and flu season. Sometimes the body’s defenses are overwhelmed, and nutritional supplements can help by boosting the immune system to prevent or treat infection and illness.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a naturally occurring North American herb that is commonly used to treat and prevent the common cold and flu. Even before colonial times the American Indians recognized the medicinal properties of Echinacea. Some research demonstrates that this herb stimulates immune function and also fights inflammation. If taken at the first sign of cold symptoms it has been shown to make the duration of the infection shorter. This supplement comes in tablet, liquid, capsule and tea formulations.
Oil of Oregano
Oregano isn’t just for making your spaghetti sauce tastier; it has also been used to treat respiratory illnesses since the time of Hippocrates. Oregano is also used in Greece to treat sore throats. Personally, I just got a cold recently; which inspired me to create a cold and flu section, and I used oil of oregano for the first time – my cold was gone in just a couple days! It definitely doesn’t taste the best but it works.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a naturally occurring vitamin found in fruits and vegetables. Vitamin C is an active component in the proper immune function of white blood cells. Although naturally occurring Vitamin C is good for you, the doses required for medicinal purposes are only found in supplement form. Vitamin C supplements have been shown to shorten the duration of colds by up to 1-2 days. It is often taken in chewable tablet form or lozenges.
Ginseng
For centuries the medicinal benefits of ginseng have been recognized. Ginseng is a plant whose root is used as a natural supplement for treating and preventing infections. The plant is found in North America, Korea and northeastern China. Evidence shows that ginseng is an effective supplement that can prevent cold and flu. It comes in powder, tea and capsule form.
Summary
During this cold and flu season it is more important than ever to be protected. Although your immune system works hard on its own the human body can not prevent or fight all infections. Plenty of rest, fluids, a balanced diet and smoking cessation help keep illness away. The supplements listed above are available now to add to your cold and flu fighting aresenal! Check out the current deals available for cold and flu preventing supplements.
