Many of my patients have been asking what supplements to use to support their immune system in this winter season. While many supplements can be used, I will give you a simplified version. Please remember that immune-supportive supplements are NOT a substitute for a healthy diet, exercise, and sleep patterns. These three fundamental factors DIRECTLY impact your immune system positively or negatively.
This supplement contains the well-studied hot water mushroom extracts Coriolus versicolor (Turkey tail) and Maitake. There are a lot of mushroom extracts out on the market right now. However, few use hot water extracts where the immune enhancing components known as beta glucans become concentrated. I reviewed the published research on medicinal mushrooms over the years when I wrote my books The Health Benefits Of Medicinal Mushrooms and Outside The Box Cancer Therapies. This is why our formula contains hot water extracts that published studies used. They are much more potent than regular mushroom supplements. In addition, the formula contains the revered Chinese herbal extract known as Astragalus, which is commonly used in immune-supportive formulas. The last ingredient is highly absorbable Meriva Turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Recommended Dose: 2 capsules twice daily
NAC is a great immune-supportive supplement in several ways:
Recommended Dose: 2 capsules daily, preferably on an empty stomach
Many studies have demonstrated that vitamin D3 supports and regulates the immune system. One is more prone to respiratory tract infections if vitamin D3 is deficient. We combined D3 with K2 since vitamin D enhances calcium absorption and K2 directs it into the bones.
Recommended Dose: 1 capsule daily with a meal
Vitamin C supports a healthy immune system, especially for people under stress. Our vitamin C + R-ALA contains a studied form of vitamin C known as PureWay-C, which maintains a blood level of vitamin C for 12 hours compared to the 4-5 hours.
To support your immune system throughout the winter you can take Immune Wellness daily. For a more comprehensive approach you can add one or more of the other supplements such as NAC, vitamin D3/K2, and vitamin C.
Dr. Mark Stengler NMD, MS, is a bestselling author in private practice in Encinitas, California, at the Stengler Center for Integrative Medicine. His newsletter, Dr. Stengler’s Health Breakthroughs, is available at www.markstengler.com and his product line at www.drstengler.com
