The immune system is our body’s first line of defense against germs, illness, and disease. As such, it’s essential to keep it strong in order to maintain positive health and wellness. Below is a brief overview of some vitamins and herbal supplements that can help boost your immune system, as well as a recipe for a nutrient-packed health drink you can make at home. 

Immune-Strengthening Vitamins & Minerals

You’ve probably heard about the immune-boosting benefits of vitamin C, which can be taken as a supplement and found in foods such as citrus fruits and leafy green vegetables. But vitamins A, E, and D are also powerful immunity-boosting antioxidants that can be taken as nutritional supplements and ingested in the form of foods like eggs, fish, nuts, seeds, and wheat germ.

Studies have shown that minerals such as zinc, selenium, iron, and folic acid are effective at battling an infection and controlling inflammation. Herbal remedies like elderberry, olive leaf, and oregano oil have long been believed to have antibacterial properties that keep the immune system strong and resilient. Lecithin, which is a naturally occurring fat found in foods such as eggs, soy, and sunflower seeds, may also increase immune function and improve overall health and wellness.

Homemade Immunity Boosters

In addition to supplements and foods rich in immunity-strengthening vitamins and minerals, there are also homemade remedies designed to improve your health and wellness. The below recipe by Hanna Kroeger is easy to make and is packed with immune-boosting nutrients. 

What You’ll Need

This recipe includes nutrient-packed fruits and juices, including: 

• 1 lemon

• 1 ½ cups of orange juice, apricot nectar, or another type of fruit juice.
• 1 tablespoon of cold-pressed olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of lecithin granules

What to Do

This recipe is simple, and it should only take a few minutes to complete the following steps:

• Quarter the lemon, keeping the rind and the seeds intact, and place it into a blender.
• Add fruit juice or water, then blend on high speed for two minutes. 
• Strain and press the pulp, then place the liquid back into the blender. 
• Add the olive oil and lecithin granules and blend for one minute. Divide into two or three portions and serve.

For more information about supplements that can help boost your immunity, contact Marie A. Gonzales, L. Ac. in Nyack, NY. This health and wellness expert has over two decades of experience providing individuals with a wide range of holistic health solutions, including acupuncture, foot detox, and cupping therapy. Visit her website or call (845) 398-1312 to learn more about the services she provides.