When the COVID-19 outbreak first hit, many of us panicked and went straight into hording mode. As a Functional Medicine Clinic, we skipped the toilet paper phase and went straight to buying immune support supplements by the box. Many of our patients are older and/or have underlying health conditions and needed additional immune support. After reading the latest information about the COVID-19 virus and researching immune support supplements, we have designed a science-based Immune Support Supplement Bundle that we suggest to all our patients.

We have built our Immune Support Bundled based on what we know about fighting off other viruses and have carefully selected supplements that are designed to strengthen both the innate and acquired immune system. Of course, there are not yet any comprehensive studies on this version of the coronavirus. We can, and should, leverage all we know about similar infections to effectively support our body’s immune response during this pandemic.

We started off our bundle with the basics. We did our research and found the Pure Response Multivitamin and Innate Immune support. Both offer immune support, reduced inflammation, and reduced risk of acute respiratory infection. Next, we add in additional Zinc, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Vitamin D for increased immune function and protection against the risk of infection.

Because of how COVID affects the bodies respiratory system, it was important to add supplements that help to reduce inflammation. We added NAC (N-Acetyl-L-cystine), Fish Oil, Glutathione, Curcumasorb, and Melatonin. These supplements help reduce general inflammation, and more specifically, inflammation in the lungs. They may also help reduce lung mucus and clots and provide immune and antioxidant support.

We were particularly interested in Melatonin as new research shows that this could be an effective treatment to ease symptoms of COVID-19. To be clear, there is currently nothing definitive in the science showing that melatonin can protect against the most serious effects of COVID-19. However, there are indications that melatonin may reduce the severity of the disease and the overblown immune response and subsequent severe damage to the lungs that is present in the virus’ most critically ill patients.

And finally, we added a Th1 Modulator and Th2 Modulator. The Th1 Modulator offers a blend of berberine, baicalin from Chinese skullcap, sulforaphane from broccoli, ginger, and zinc to promote healthy Th1-predominant cellular immune response and innate immunity. The Th2 Modulator contains a blend of N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), quercetin, perilla seed and astragalus extracts to help modulate the Th2 immune response, to support Th1/Th2 balance, self-tissue response, and mucosal health.

While this supplement bundle can help you boost your immunity and stay healthy, it is worth noting that nothing can replace a healthy lifestyle. Maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, engaging in regular movement, not smoking, and practicing social distancing (yes, mask wearing and 6 feet or more of distance are now part of a healthy lifestyle!) are some of the most important ways to help keep your immune system healthy and reduce your chances of infection and disease. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have questions about supplements available at the clinic and/or how to boost your immune system. We are here to help!

Stephanie Jones, ARNP-C