As we head into autumn and winter, health experts predict that the flu season may start earlier than usual in 2022. They also think that the particular strain of flu may be harsher than the average flu. Researchers study how the flu season pans out in Australia earlier in a specific year to understand how it will affect the Northern hemispheres as the colder seasons approach.
Vitamins for flu season 2022/3
Experts add that the immunity to the flu in the general population may be lower because the COVID-19 pandemic had us in isolation for the flu season last year. This creates an immunity gap, making most of us more susceptible to seasonal influenza.
That’s why ensuring our immune systems are strong and ready to fight off any infection is essential. One way to do this is by taking vitamins. So, which vitamins should we be taking during flu season?
Vega ZM3 Multivitamin and Mineral Formula
Vega ZM3 Multivitamin and Mineral Formula is ideal for those with a nutritional gap. To maintain health and a robust immune system, eating various foods including seasonal vegetables and herbs, is crucial. Foods that are in season contain the vitamins and minerals we need most to protect us at that time.
It’s not so easy if you have a busy life, though. Additionally, certain digestive issues (such as IBS) could interfere with the absorption of nutrients from the foods we eat. The only way to ensure complete nutrition is by adding a multivitamin to our daily intake.
Vega ZM3 Multivitamin and Mineral Formula provides a high-potency supplement of 21 vitamins and minerals your body needs. The formula also includes several antioxidants, such as Coenzyme Q10 and Citrus Bioflavonoids Complex, that work against free radicals in the body. Not only does ZM3 fill these nutritional gaps, but it also ensures that your immune system is ready to fight when it encounters bacteria or viruses.
Urgent-D 2000
Identifying vitamin D was a groundbreaking event that won the scientist Windaus a Nobel Prize in 1938. In recent years, attention has shifted from its importance in bone effects to its unique emphasis on the immune system. The significant role of vitamin D was highlighted by the presence of vitamin D receptors on almost all cells of the immune system.
It was found that vitamin D supplements work best in a preventative manner, where it can prevent or modify the course of inflammatory disease. Avoidance of vitamin D deficiency with the intake of a supplement decreases susceptibility to infection.
Vega Vitamins Urgent-D provides 2000 international units (IU) of Vitamin D3. This high-strength formulation is found as chewable tablets in blackcurrant flavour, designed with adults in mind.
Vitamin C 500mg Low Acid Formula
Vitamin C contributes to the immune system by functions of both the natural and adaptive immune systems. It supports the skin barrier against germs and promotes antioxidant activity on the skin, protecting against environmental stress. Vitamin C deficiency leads to a lowered immune system and a higher likelihood of infection by pathogens.
Furthermore, supplementation of vitamin C appears to have a dual effect. It prevents and treats illness, especially respiratory tract infections such as the seasonal flu. Treatment of established infections will require higher doses of vitamin C.
Vega Vitamin C 500mg Low Acid Formula provides a buffered product to reduce acidity in the stomach. It provides 500mg of vitamin C per capsule, enough for the nutritional needs of an adult of average health. Speak to your doctor if you are a smoker, as you may need to take a higher dose during flu season.
Other immune system tips
Your immune system needs appropriate nutrition to work correctly, so consuming a healthy, balanced diet with proteins, vitamins, and minerals is crucial. Try to eat what is seasonal as much as possible and eat foods rich in immune-system boosters, e.g. tomatoes, ginger, oily fish, dark chocolate, and broccoli – not necessarily in that order!
Focus on staying physically and mentally healthy by getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and maintaining a good work-life balance.
If you get ill, keep taking your vitamins as these will help decrease the number of days of illness and make you feel stronger quicker!
Sources:
When is the Best Time to Get a Flu Shot This Year? (2022, August 25). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health-news/flu-season-could-start-early-whens-the-best-time-to-get-your-shot
Martens, P.-J., Gysemans, C., Verstuyf, A., & Mathieu, C. (2020). Vitamin D’s Effect on Immune Function. Nutrients, 12(5), 1248. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12051248
Carr, A. C., & Maggini, S. (2017). Vitamin C and Immune Function. Nutrients, 9(11), 1211. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9111211
17 immune-boosting foods to get you through cold and flu season. (n.d.). Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://news.yahoo.com/17-immune-boosting-foods-cold-195527374.html