As the temperature drops and the days get shorter, the cough and cold season begins to rear its head. During this time of the year, it's crucial to give your immune system the support it needs to fend off the seasonal sniffles. While maintaining a healthy lifestyle and practicing good hygiene are essential, certain nutritional supplements can also play a significant role in bolstering your immunity. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of three key supplements: Vitamin D, American BioSciences Immpower, and Bio Schwiiz Immunity Power.

1. Vitamin D: The Sunshine Vitamin

Vitamin D is often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin" because your body can produce it when exposed to sunlight. However, during the colder months, many people may experience a deficiency in this essential nutrient due to reduced sun exposure. Vitamin D plays a critical role in supporting the immune system by promoting the production of antimicrobial peptides and enhancing the function of immune cells.

Recommendation: To maintain optimal levels of Vitamin D during the cough and cold season, consider a daily supplement of 1000-2000 IU for most adults. However, it's important to consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations, as individual requirements may vary.

2. American BioSciences Immpower: AHCC Immune Support

American BioSciences Immpower is a unique supplement formulated with Active Hexose Correlated Compound (AHCC), a natural compound derived from shiitake mushrooms. AHCC has gained recognition for its immune-boosting properties. It supports immune cell function and enhances the body's natural defense mechanisms.

Recommendation: To support your immune system, consider taking American BioSciences Immpower as directed by the manufacturer, typically 2-6 capsules daily. Always follow the recommended dosage and consult your healthcare professional for personalized advice.

3. Bio Schwiiz Immunity Power: A Multifaceted Immune Booster

Bio Schwiiz Immunity Power is a comprehensive nutritional supplement designed to support overall immune health. It contains a blend of vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts that have been traditionally used to strengthen the immune system. Some of the key ingredients in Bio Schwiiz Immunity Power include Vitamin C, Zinc, Echinacea, and Astragalus.

Recommendation: For added protection during the cough and cold season, follow the manufacturer's instructions for Bio Schwiiz Immunity Power, typically 1-2 capsules per day, or as advised by a healthcare professional.

Conclusion

During the cough and cold season, taking nutritional supplements like Vitamin D, American BioSciences Immpower, and Bio Schwiiz Immunity Power can provide additional support to your immune system. However, it's essential to remember that supplements should not be a replacement for a balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper hygiene practices. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take medication.

Incorporating these supplements into your daily routine, along with other healthy habits, can help you stay resilient against the seasonal challenges to your health. So, arm yourself with these powerful immune boosters and embrace the winter season with confidence and good health.

Pharmacists Paul White and Brad White discuss tips for a healthy immune system for the coming cold and flu season.

Influenza (Flu) Vaccines

The Centers for disease control estimates that for the 2017-2018 influenza season that vaccination prevented 7.1 million illnesses, 109,000 hospitalizations and 8000 deaths. The CDC recommends that children and adults should received their flu shots by the end of October. Vaccination is recommended before there is flu activity in the community. Statistically flu seasons are most likely to peak in January and February but can occur as early as October. You cannot get the flu from the flu shot. You may experience side effects like soreness at the injection site or a mild temperature or malaise which is a sign of an immune response to the vaccine.

The CDC recommends the following patients get the influenza vaccine:

• All children aged 6 through 59 months;

• All persons aged ≥50 years;

• Adults and children who have chronic pulmonary (including asthma), cardiovascular (excluding isolated hypertension), renal, hepatic, neurologic, hematologic, or metabolic disorders (including diabetes mellitus);

• Persons who are immunocompromised due to any cause (including but not limited to immunosuppression caused by medications or HIV infection);

• Women who are or will be pregnant during the influenza season;

• Children and adolescents (aged 6 months through 18 years) who are receiving aspirin- or salicylate-containing medications and who might be at risk for experiencing Reye syndrome after influenza virus infection;

• Residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities;

• American Indians/Alaska Natives; and

• Persons who are extremely obese (body mass index ≥40 for adults).

• Healthcare workers

• Caregivers

Pneumonia Vaccines

Older adults need two pneumonia vaccines separated by at least one year. Prevnar 13 (PCV13) provides coverage against 13 strains of pneumococcal bacteria and Pneumovax 23 (PPSV23) provides protection against 23 strains of pneumococcal bacteria. Both vaccines provide protection against illnesses like meningitis and bacteremia. Side effects are mild and typically do not affect daily activities. Soreness at injection site is the most common.

CDC Recommends:

• You should receive a dose of PCV13 first, followed by a dose of PPSV23, at least 1 year later.

• If you already received any doses of PPSV23, get the dose of PCV13 at least 1 year after the most recent PPSV23 dose.

Nutritional Recommendations

A strong immune system starts with both adequate rest and adequate nutrition. Pharmacist Brad White recommends the following supplements to support your immune system:

• Multivitamin

• Vitamin D

• B-Complex Vitamin

• Omega 3 Fatty Acids (Fish Oil)

• CoEnzyme Q10

• Magnesium Chelate or Magnesium Glycinate

• Probiotic