Winter is just around the corner, and winter means flu season! Many wonder if supplements can really boost their immunity. Spoiler alert Spoiler alert: yes, but probably not in the way you'd expect. Contrary to popular belief, you can't directly "boost" your immune system. However, there are steps you can take to optimize your overall health, and give your body the weapons it needs to face winter!
Vitamin D: a Quebec essential
Vitamin D is your body's discreet superhero. In fact, it acts more like a hormone in your body. Not only does it play a key role in the proper functioning of the immune system, it's also essential for overall strength and well-being. If you had to choose just one supplement to face winter, vitamin D would undoubtedly be your best ally. What's more, it's easy to take - and will remind you of those sunny days you're sure to miss this winter!
But which form of vitamin D should you choose to get the most out of it? Choose vitamin D3, as it is more effective than D2 in increasing the amount of vitamin D in your body. To maximize its absorption, take it with a high-fat meal (such as avocado or nuts), and consider combining it with vitamin K2, which helps direct calcium to the bones. Oil drops or oily capsules are ideal for rapid absorption. Avoid taking it on an empty stomach, or your stomach may call you to order. Oh, and a little tip: try taking it in the evening, as it may help you sleep better by regulating your sleep-wake cycle!
Multivitamins: a health insurance policy
Multivitamins are a bit like an insurance policy, but for your health. You don't think about them every day, but you're glad you have them when you need them. By taking them on a daily basis, you ensure that you won't have any deficiencies in essential nutrients. A well-nourished body is better equipped to cope with external aggressions, including viruses like the flu.
But why choose a methylated ? Well, think of it as the "ready-to-eat" version of vitamins. Your body doesn't have to go to the trouble of converting them into active forms - especially for those who have trouble converting standard vitamins. This means you absorb nutrients better and avoid deficiencies.
To put it simply, methylation acts as a switch for many vital functions in every cell of your body, such as energy production, detoxification, mood regulation and protection of cardiovascular health. In other words, it's a process that keeps your body running smoothly, helping with cell regeneration, brain function and even stress management.
Zinc: an ally against winter infections
Zinc is the friend we call to the rescue when winter hits hard. Studies have shown that it can help reduce the duration of viral infections, particularly those linked to the flu. To maximize absorption, we recommend taking zinc in the morning or at lunchtimepreferably with a meal. This helps avoid heartburn and enables better absorption of nutrients. Avoid taking it at the same time as calcium or magnesium, as these minerals can interfere with zinc absorption.
By incorporating zinc into your routine, you give your immune system an extra boost to fight infection.
To get through the winter in good health and stay in shape, consider incorporating these three elements into your daily routine: vitamin D, a good multivitamin and zinc. Even if these supplements don't directly "boost" your immune system, they optimize your general health and enable your body to react better to winter aggressions. Because, between us, prevention is better than finding yourself wrapped up in a blanket in front of Netflix in "survival" mode!
