Immune Modulating Supplements
Immune modulating supplements either suppress or stimulate the immune system, usually in regards to treating specific conditions that affect a healthy immune response, and are known as immune modulators. These specific conditions can include cancer, autoimmune disease such as (rheumatoid arthritis, chronic inflammation, inflammatory bowel disease also known as IBD, and Crohn's disease to name a few), allergies, and chronic viral infections. Those inflicted with these conditions may or may not have a healthy immune response, and their immune system may need some assistance.
Common natural immune modulators are adaptogens to calm the immune response or herbs and vitamins that stimulate the immune system. Cytokines, proteins produced in the body as natural immune modulators, can affect immune system function both positively and negatively depending on how they are regulated by the body, so supplements that regulate cytokines are helpful in this category.
Below are some examples of natural supplements that have proven health benefits and can produce a balanced immune response in those with conditions that affect optimal immune function.
Those with autoimmune diseases should generally avoid any dietary supplementation that stimulates immune responses as most autoimmunity is caused by overactive immune cell activity. People with these types of chronic illness should look for dietary supplements that increase immune tolerance and promote balanced cellular responsiveness.
Supplements to help modulate your immune system:
Bio Cultures Complex Advanced Multi Strain Probiotic
Probiotics promote a healthy gut, which is essential for a properly modulated immune response to infections both bacterial and viral and have a regulating effect on immune system functions, preventing infectious diseases while reducing inflammation.
Vitamin D3 4000 IU Cholecalciferol 425 Softgels (14 month supply)
Vitamin D has a stimulating effect on the innate immune system by increasing antimicrobial responses, but may have a suppressive effect on the adaptive immune system by regulating both B and T cell functions and responses to invaders.
Organic KSM-66 Ashwagandha 550mg with Black Pepper
Ashwagandha is an Adaptogen that work to moderate the body’s response to stress, including immune stress from bacteria and viruses. Lower cortisol levels, regulated by these adaptogens, correspond to immune health and balanced immune cell activity.
Omega 3, 2000mg Super Strength Fish Oil - 300 Softgels
The immune system needs a balance between omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids in order to function properly. Unfortunately, the modern diet tends to be much higher in omega 6 than omega 3 and the resulting upset to that balance can cause immune dysfunction. The polyunsaturated fatty acids found in omega 3s have powerful anti-inflammatory properties, as well as stimulating B and T cell proliferation. This unique ability to regulate the immune response makes them effective for those with an over-active inflammatory response or autoimmune diseases.
Zinc Gluconate Tablets - 25mg
Zinc is an essential nutrient that affects and regulates the immune system in multiple ways. It increases development and function of protective cells, facilitates communication between the innate and adaptive immune system, strengthens cell membranes to promote healthy inflammatory response, and is involved in the production of cytokines. Zinc supplementation can promote optimal immune function in all parts of the human body, especially for those with a zinc deficiency.
Super B Vitamin Complex
There are 8 different B vitamins. In a well-rounded diet, these vitamins are mostly found in animal products, as well as certain vegetables, dark greens, and mushrooms. Vegetarian and vegan diets are generally lacking in B vitamins and it is recommended to supplement those diets with a B-complex. The body does not store these vitamins so they need to be included in a diet or supplemented daily. B vitamins are essential for many biological and cognitive functions. Vitamin B deficiency has been linked with weakened immune system function.
Adaptogens like ashwagandha, lion’s mane, maca root and some other mushrooms and herbs work to moderate the body’s response to stress, including immune stress from bacteria and viruses. Lower cortisol levels, regulated by these adaptogens, correspond to immune health and balanced immune cell activity.
Adaptogens like ashwagandha, lion’s mane, maca root and some other mushrooms and herbs work to moderate the body’s response to stress, including immune stress from bacteria and viruses. Lower cortisol levels, regulated by these adaptogens, correspond to immune health and balanced immune cell activity.
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