10 Immune System Boosters for Pandemic Preparedness

Disclaimer: There is no known treatment for COVID-19. However, a healthy immune system can certainly improve your chances against any virus. Please talk to your doctor about the suggestions below.

As COVID-19 spreads across the United States, I'm amazed at how many people aren't taking it seriously. Recently I wrote an article explaining why this virus isn't “just the flu.” As I said, it won't be the end of the world, but millions could die.

Still, people look at a 2% death rate and think, “Oh, that's not bad, I'll be fine.” Well, if you are over 60, the mortality rate is much higher. If you're in your 60s, it's 3.4%. If you're in your 70s, it's 8%. And if you're in your 80s, it's a whopping 14.8%. (Source.)

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However, the healthier you are, the better your chances. A pandemic preparedness kit usually includes a lot of items for disinfecting your hands and everything you touch, but items to boost your immune system can be just as important.

In this video, The Urban Prepper goes over his list of the top 10 immune system boosters in the form of supplements that are easy to find (for now).

Consult Your Doctor

Before taking any supplement, you should always consult your doctor to ensure there are no negative interactions with prescription meds you might be taking or if you have chronic or pre-existing conditions.

The supplements recommended are good for fighting colds and flu, and they could also help with the recent outbreak of the Coronavirus, now known as COVID-19, but we can't say for sure. To be clear: There is no cure for COVID-19, but anything that boosts your immune system is worth trying.

Here's his list (in alphabetical order).

1. Echinacea

Echinacea is widely used to fight the common cold and flu. Many studies have been done to support the benefits of echinacea.

2. Elderberry Syrup

Elderberry syrup is anti-viral and stimulates a beneficial immune response. Elderberry is also an antioxidant and research has shown it can shorten the duration of the flu for 4 days on average if not stopping cold and flu in its tracks.

3. Garlic Extract

For thousands of years, people have hailed garlic as the elixir of health. Many use it for its cardiovascular benefits but it also has antioxidant properties.

4. Oil of Oregano

Research has shown that oil of oregano has anti-microbial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties. It also contains antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic and cancer suppressor agents. It comes in a soft gel.

5. Olive Leaf Extract

This immune system booster goes back to ancient Egypt. It contains powerful antioxidants.

6. Probiotics

Probiotic supplements help support a healthy gut and aid digestion.

7. Vitamin C

A well-known immune booster that also supports bone health, iron absorption, and healthy skin.

8. Vitamin D3

Promotes immunity and overall skin and bone health. And now, there's evidence that it helps prevent respiratory tract infections, which is exactly how COVID19 kills people. (Check out this study.)

9. Vitamin E

Powerful antioxidant properties for immune health to protect cells from free radicals. It also fights off invading bacteria and viruses.

10. Zinc

Zinc is important to the body in many ways to not only keep the immune system strong but to help heal wounds and support normal growth.

[Update: There is some evidence that, if you get sick with COVID-19, you should avoid ibuprofen and instead take acetaminophen.]

For a more detailed examination of these immune system boosters, watch the video below:

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