Schedule a Consultation (775) 828-5388
As we enter flu season, many people want to know the best ways to boost their immune systems—because, let's face it, no one likes to get sick.
Of course, as many of those people are older adults with weakened immune systems already, or worse, an immunodeficiency disorder—many people want to know more about immune system boosters, specifically.
These solutions—which can include anything from specific foods to supplements—claim to strengthen your immune system and fight off infections, by giving your body the boost it needs to fight off nasty pathogens of all types.
But do these solutions actually work and are they really safe? In this informative blog, find out the answers to these questions and more, as we take an in-depth look at immune boosters and their effectiveness.
While eating a healthy balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep are important for maintaining a strong immune system, many people wonder if there are other ways to enhance their immune systems—especially during flu season.
Well, if you’ve ever wondered if there was an easy way to boost your immunity—such as by eating food or taking a pill—you’d be right. There are actually thousands of “immune booster” solutions (such as certain foods, dietary supplements, probiotics, and vitamins) that can help the body’s natural defense system fight off infections and diseases of all types.
Research has shown that certain vitamins, minerals, herbs, and dietary supplements (when consumed at the right doses) can help support the body's natural defenses. That said, it’s important to speak with your doctor before consuming any one of them—especially if you have any underlying health conditions—as they can also negatively impact your health.
While some immune boosters are safe when taken as directed, it’s important to note that not all immune boosters are harmless. Certain types of immune boosters can be harmful to your health if taken in excess. For example, some herbs such as echinacea and ginseng can interact with certain medications and cause side effects. In addition, some dietary supplements can contain contaminants such as heavy metals, which can be harmful if taken in large amounts.
That’s why it’s so important to speak with your doctor or healthcare provider before taking any type of supplement and to follow the recommended dosage instructions.
Some immune boosters may help to support overall health and help the body fight off infections, including the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19. However, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that any specific immune booster will directly prevent or treat COVID-19.
No, anti-inflammatory supplements and immune system boosters are not the same things.
Anti-inflammatory supplements are used to reduce inflammation—your immune system’s natural response to injury or infection—which can cause redness, swelling, pain, heat, or loss of function. Immune system boosters, on the other hand, are used to strengthen the body's immune system overall, helping to prevent your body from getting sick in the first place.
It’s always best to talk to your doctor about any supplements you would like to take while pregnant. Taking any supplements can interact with your body chemistry (which could impact both your and your fetus’s health), as well as interact with other medications you may be currently taking.
At Sierra Integrative Medical Clinic, we use two distinct types of immune boosters—immune boosting peptides and glyoxal shots, respectively—to help strengthen our patients’ body defenses against disease and infection. Peptides are molecules made up of amino acids, which help to activate and stimulate the immune system and reduce oxidative stress. Glyoxal shots, on the other hand, contain a compound called glyoxal that helps to boost the body’s natural defenses.
These solutions are some of the best types of immune boosters available because they’re both powerful immune system stimulators and because, unlike other treatments, they’re designed to help your body heal itself.
Outside of immune boosters, the best ways to boost your immunity involve taking steps to prevent yourself from getting sick. You can do this by practicing good hygiene—such as by washing your hands and avoiding close contact with people who are sick—as well as by getting plenty of fluids and taking supplements as directed by your doctor. You can also support your immune system by eating a healthy, well-balanced diet, getting regular exercise and adequate sleep, and by reducing your stress levels as much as possible.
If you are looking for the best ways to boost a weakened immune system, the Sierra Integrative Medical Clinic is the perfect place to start. With our state-of-the-art immune-boosting supplements and therapies, we can help prevent illness and rebuild your immunity. And, with our world-class integrative treatments, we’ll restore your health and happiness, so that you feel at your best for good.
Interested in learning more about our integrative medical center?
Check out our treatment philosophy page to learn more about our integrative approach to treatment, or contact us to schedule a consultation today.
We’re now accepting new patients to our freestanding outpatient clinic in Reno, Nevada. Contact us at 775-828-5388 today to schedule your initial consultation, or to find out how our integrative medicine doctors can help treat your condition!
For more information about clinic visits or fees, please refer to our logistics page.
