It’s virus season! Are you wondering how to prevent colds and flu naturally? Today, I’m sharing essential winter immune boosters along with the top 10 go-to cold and flu supplements that I use to keep myself and my family healthy, along with the supplements I reach for at the first sign of a sniffle. To listen to one of my most popular podcast episodes on this subject go here to listen on Apple Podcasts or here to listen on Spotify. To see even more evidence-based research about immune-supporting supplements, read this article from the NIH.

Daily Immune Essentials

During fall and winter, our immune system benefits from extra love. It’s during these months that we are inside more often, get less vitamin D from sunshine, and eat fewer fresh vegetables and fruits.

To keep my immunity strong, I focus on getting enough sleep, getting enough vegetables, and avoiding the foods I’m sensitive to. These simple lifestyle choices reduce inflammation and keep my immune system primed for when I get exposed to viruses, etc.

In addition to getting good sleep, good food, and avoiding inflammatory foods, I take specific supplements during the winter for extra support. My favorite essential winter immune boosters include:

1. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a powerful ally for a strong immune system. I prefer buffered Vitamin C capsules, which are gentler on your stomach. I’m also a fan of Liposomal Vitamin C from Designs For Health, a liquid form that gets absorbed directly into the bloodstream when you hold it under your tongue for 30 seconds. Both forms of Vitamin C work wonders for supporting immunity.

2. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for immune support. I love the Premier Research Labs Vitamin D serum, which comes in an easy-to-dose drop form. One drop equals 1,000 IU, and you can adjust your intake as needed. Other reputable brands include Energetix Vitamin D3/K2 spray and Seeking Health D3/K2, both of which help bolster immune defenses.

3. Zinc and Quercetin

Zinc is crucial for immune function, especially when combined with quercetin, which acts as an ionophore, helping zinc enter cells more effectively. Once inside, zinc plays a role in stopping viruses from replicating. Remember to always take zinc with food to avoid nausea and ensure better absorption.

My Winter Health Boosters for Early Symptoms – Top Supplements

As much as you try to stay healthy, there are times when you get exposed to something or someone who’s not feeling well. Next thing you know, you wake up with a tickle or scratchy throat. The good news is that you can often still stop that virus in its tracks! Here’s are some of the supplements I take at the first sign of a cold. Keep in mind, I don’t take them all (!) but pick from my favorites depending on the supplements I have on hand or the specific symptoms I’m experiencing.

1. Elderberry

Elderberry is widely recognized for its immune-boosting properties. I prefer elderberry gummies since they’re easy to take and often include added Vitamin C and zinc. Great brands include Gaia, Nature’s Way Sambucus, Zand, and Nature’s Sunshine.

2. Viracid by Ortho Molecular

Viracid is a blend of immune-supporting nutrients like zinc, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and L-lysine, specifically designed to fend off illness. The zinc and Vitamin C levels are moderate, so it’s safe to take Viracid alongside your daily Vitamin C and zinc supplements.

3. Immunomax by Nutritional Frontiers

Immunomax features a combination of vitamins and immune-supporting nutrients, including beta-glucans. When I feel like something is coming on, I’ll take either Viracid or Immunomax, following the label’s recommended dosage.

4. V Clear EPS by Integrative Therapeutics

V Clear EPS is a homeopathic formula in syrup form that’s excellent for early symptoms of colds and upper respiratory infections. It’s most effective when taken at the first sign of a scratchy throat or congestion.

5. Immune Season by Herb Pharm

Immune Season spray by Herb Pharm is a fantastic first defense against sore throats and early cold symptoms. I keep it in my purse, office, and home. Simply spray it at the back of your throat and repeat throughout the day as needed.

6. VIVI Virox from Systemic Formulas

My ultimate immune booster is VIVI Virox, which contains powerful ingredients like Pau D’arco and bitter almond. It’s a game-changer that has helped my family ward off respiratory illnesses multiple times. I personally use all the different formulations (capsules, tincture, and homeopathic drops) and keep them on hand for when we need them.

Travel-Friendly Immunity Essentials: My Winter Health “Little Black Bag”

At home and on the go, I keep these essential winter immune boosters all together in one small back, affectionately known in my house as the “cold and flu season little black bag”. It’s a must-have when traveling with family, to make sure we’re ready if someone starts getting a scratchy throat or stuffy nose. It’s just the right size to fit all of the essentials for those “just-in-case” situations. Doesn’t it always seem like something sneaks up on you right before you go away or just when you get there? If you have a designated bag for your essential winter immune supplements, you’ll be thankful to have everything in one place when you need it.

Important Notes for Using These Supplements

Before starting any new supplements, ALWAYS consult with your healthcare provider. Everyone’s immune needs are unique, and what works for one person may not be ideal for another. Also, if you’re on medication, have a health condition, are pregnant or nursing, these may not be appropriate for you to take at all. It all depends on your individual needs.

It goes without saying, be sure to NOT take all of these supplements. They’re listed to provide various options to choose from. My daily essentials include Vitamin C, Vitamin D, zinc, and quercetin, but I add on products like Immune Season spray as needed.

Final Thoughts on Essential Winter Immune Support

I hope these recommendations help you stay strong and healthy this season. Having a reliable immune support routine in place can make all the difference. Reach out if you have any questions or if you’d like guidance on setting up your own immune-boosting regimen. Here’s to a healthy, resilient winter!