In the summer, immune health tends to fly under the radar. However, as we age, immune support is crucial in maintaining overall health and wellness, since the body’s ability to fight infection is directly related to our health and longevity. Even if it isn't flu season, maintaining immune health is vital for overall wellness.
Starting in our 60s, the immune system naturally undergoes dramatic change, losing the ability to fight infection the way it could in our younger years. It becomes slower to react, fight, and protect the body from infection. Thankfully, there are many easy ways to maintain both the efficiency and efficacy of the immune system, and we’ve compiled a list of some effective ingredients to keep an eye out for in your immune supplements:
Popular Ingredients in Dietary Supplements: When choosing an immune supplement, be sure to keep an eye out for ingredients such as vitamin C and D, zinc, elderberry extract, and echinacea. Clinical deficiencies of these nutrients can increase susceptibility to infection. All these provide the potential to reduce severity of symptoms and duration of infections. Vitamin C helps reduce oxidative stress, vitamin D strengthens tissue barriers and ultimately reduces the risk of contracting infection. Zinc suppresses bacterial replication and inflammation, often in the form of a lozenge or syrup. Echinacea is currently being investigated as a substitute to Tamiflu; some clinical trials suggest that it has similar, potentially the same, effects on the flu as Tamiflu.
Drink More Water: The importance of hydration is talked about a lot, but when it comes to caring for the immune system, it couldn’t be emphasized enough. Adults are at risk of being dehydrated due to internal changes, external factors, or both. Examples of internal changes are things like a decreased sensation of thirst or changes to kidney function and the body’s ability to conserve water. An example of external change is medication side effects – some commonly prescribed medications, like blood pressure medication, can cause side effects that cause the body to lose fluids.
Balanced Diet: When it comes to active adults maintaining immune support, a balanced diet is just as important as a dietary supplement. According to our blog post about magnesium, we know that nutrient absorption becomes less efficient in humans as we age, so nutrient deficiencies can occur even if they’re being consumed. That’s when dietary supplements come in handy. Be sure to include all five food groups in your diet, and keep it low in saturated fats, sugar and salt.
The scientific relationship between a hydrated body and the immune system is also important to note. The lymphatic system relies on lymph fluid, which is 90% water. This crucial bodily function removes toxins, waste, debris, and pathogens from the body. The lymphatic system also transports white blood cells throughout the body. In active adults, the lymphatic system isn’t as efficient, so staying hydrated helps lubricate the vessels and support communication and biochemical pathways in the immune system.
Conclusion
In conclusion, supporting your immune system as you age is essential for maintaining health and well-being. Remember, immune health is important all year, not just during flu season. By making these simple yet impactful changes, you can enhance your overall health and enjoy a more vibrant, active life. Before starting a new supplement, be sure to speak with a medical professional to ensure its safety with your current routine. Protect your future and prioritize your immune health!