Immune support is on everyone’s mind, and for good reason! Find out how you’ll know whether your immunity supplements are actually working.
Before 2020, most of us probably didn’t think about our immune system unless we were already feeling ill. However, today almost everyone is searching for ways to support immunity and overall health.
Obviously, a healthy diet and plenty of sleep support immunity. Supplements, however, help bridge nutritional gaps for maximum immune support. Finding a high-quality immunity supplement is the first step, but you might quickly find yourself asking, “Are my immunity supplements working?”
Honestly, this is a great question! It’s pretty obvious when your immune system is weak, but what does a healthy immune system feel like? What does it feel like once immune supplements are working?
Today we’re breaking it down. Discover exactly what immunity supplements do, how you’ll know they’re really working, plus which supplements are the most effective.
What Are Immunity Supplements Supposed to DO?
The simplest answer? Immunity supplements give your body the resources it needs to help your immune system function optimally.
When your immune system is compromised you’ll probably feel fatigued, your complexion may become dull, you’ll be more prone to colds, and it will take you longer to recover from illnesses and injuries. Conversely, a healthy immune system feels like:
- Sustained energy throughout the day
- Less likelihood of becoming ill and fast to average recovery time.
- Healthier digestion.
- Clearer complexion.
So, when immune supplements are working, THAT’S what you’ll feel like! Pretty great, right?
Your immune system doesn’t weaken or strengthen overnight though. That’s why supporting your immune system with lifestyle habits over a long period of time is so effective. Some of these habits include:
- Maintaining a regular sleep schedule and aiming for 7+ hours of sleep each night.
- Nutrition with plenty of vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients.
- Staying hydrated.
- Exercising regularly.
If you feel like your immune system is compromised, or just want to make sure you’re doing everything possible to stay healthy, immunity supplements can provide additional support. Even Dr. Fauci takes supplements (Vitamin C and D) to keep his immune system healthy, so you know there’s something to them.
HOW Do Immunity Supplements Work?
Immunity Supplements support your immune system in several ways. But first, it helps to understand how your immune system works.
Throughout your life, you’re exposed to a variety of stimuli—allergens, germs, and even injuries—and your immune system analyzes ALL of them. It’s so thorough, it even reacts to stimuli like emotional distress or digestive tract issues. As your immune system analyzes various stimuli, it does a threat assessment and determines what type of response is needed.
For example, your immune system sends white blood cells to injured areas to help heal and provide additional protection. For allergies, your immune system has a pre-planned response that often involves itching, sneezing, watery eyes, etc. Viruses and colds? Same thing!
The immune system is made up of a vast network of components that identify, seek out, surround, and eliminate “threats.” This includes white blood cells (neutrophils, macrophages, dendritic cells, etc.), antibodies, and more. So, how do immunity supplements work?
Some immune supplements are powerful antioxidants that encourage the production of white blood cells. Some include essential nutrients your body needs so your immune system has enough energy to do its work. Others even have immunomodulatory properties that stimulate specific immune components.
Do Immunity Supplements REALLY Work?
Yes! While supplements may contain a variety of different vitamins, minerals, and compounds, our favorite immunity supplement is definitely beta-glucan 1,3/1,6-D. The first reason we love this compound is that it has lots of benefits outside of immunity. The second reason? There’s a science to back it up!
Beta-Glucan is a powerful immunomodulator that improves immune function by boosting threat responses. When you consume beta-glucan, it stimulates neutrophils, T-cells, monocytes, natural killer cells, macrophages, and even dendritic cells. Basically, it gives your immune system more resources to accomplish its many tasks!
It’s been shown to reduce the number and severity of colds and upper respiratory tract infections. Additionally, its effects on the immune system even extend to allergy responses. Studies have shown individuals supplementing with beta-glucan had less severe ragweed allergies.
If you’ve never heard of beta-glucan, you’re not alone. However, here are a few other tried and tested supplements for providing immune support.
What Are the Most Effective Supplements For Immune Support?
You’ve probably heard some wild claims over the last two years about some vitamins or minerals helping people become immune or completely recover from viruses. For example, you’ve probably heard LOTS of people talking about immune boosters. Unfortunately, that concept is a bit inaccurate.
When WE talk about strong immune systems, we really mean supported and balanced immune systems. Anyone with an autoimmune disorder will immediately understand that having an overly “strong” or active immune system isn’t always a good thing. For example, some people require immunosuppressants because their immune systems are TOO active.
However, immunity supplements that have been carefully designed to support a balanced immune system can absolutely benefit overall wellness. Here are a few of the most well-researched supplements and how they provide immune support:
- Beta-Glucan 1,3/1,6-D
We know, we already mentioned it. However, it’s important to understand that not all types of beta-glucan provide optimal immune support. You can find beta-glucan in oats and even mushrooms, but it doesn’t have the same potency as the beta-glucan from baker’s yeast. So, if you’re searching for a beta-glucan supplement, make sure it uses beta-glucan 1,3/1,6-D.
- Vitamin C
This essential vitamin provides antioxidants to combat free radicals. It also promotes a healthier immune system by encouraging the production of more white blood cells.
- Vitamin D3
This vitamin is essential for absorbing certain nutrients, but it also plays an important immune role. Taking Vitamin D3 regularly can reduce certain infections.
- Zinc
Your immune system needs zinc to function properly, but this nutrient also promotes faster wound healing, healthy bones, and has antioxidant properties.
- Echinacea
This herb has been used for centuries to promote health due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Plus, echinacea can help your immune system combat infections more effectively.
- Elderberry
Elderberry is packed with antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients. Studies have shown its antiviral properties may reduce the severity and length of flu symptoms.
Final Thoughts
If you’re thinking ahead about which supplements to support your immunity this winter, you’re in the right place! We’re a bit obsessed with health and wellness, so we’re always on the lookout for immunity science and wellness data. Without the right information, it’s possible to take supplements that work against each other OR even too many supplements.
That’s why we worked so hard to create an easy-to-swallow capsule with the perfect ratio of immune-supportive compounds. Our Glucan85Plus has bioavailable Beta-Glucan 1,3/1,6-D, organic Elderberry and Echinacea, Vitamin C and D3, plus Zinc. We wanted a one-stop supplement with well-researched compounds and a minimum of 85% purity.
A supplement like Glucan85Plus will keep your immune system supported and functioning optimally. Plus, over time you’ll experience more even energy, fewer colds, and faster recovery time. Protect yourself and your loved ones today with a high-quality immunity supplement.
