Why Does Immune Health Matter?
Immunity is the body’s complex defence mechanism designed to protect against harmful microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens[1]. This system consists of various cells, tissues, and organs that work together to detect and eliminate these threats, helping to prevent infections and illness[1].
The immune system operates through two main types:

1. Innate Immunity: The body’s first line of defence offers an immediate, non-specific response to invaders. It includes physical barriers such as the skin and mucous membranes and immune cells that swiftly respond to pathogens upon detection[2].
2. Adaptive Immunity: This component develops a specific response to each pathogen over time. Adaptive immunity creates memory cells that "remember" specific pathogens, allowing for a faster and more targeted response if the body encounters the same pathogen again in the future[3].

Together, these systems form a coordinated defence that maintains the body’s health by actively preventing and managing potential infections.

Key Nutrients for Immunity
Here are the top nutrients recognised for their immune-supporting benefits. Each of these has approved health claims in Great Britain, making them reliable choices for immune support.

• Copper: Copper is essential for keeping your immune defences active and responsive[4]. It helps white blood cells function effectively, allowing them to fight off infections more efficiently[6]. Copper also has antioxidant properties that reduce oxidative stress, protecting immune cells and keeping your body’s defences robust[16].
• Folate: Folate is vital for producing and maintaining immune cells, particularly T-cells, which play a crucial role in attacking infections[5][6]. Ensuring adequate folate intake supports immune resilience, which is especially important for older adults, as it boosts natural killer cell activity and reduces the risk of infection[28].
• Iron: Iron is a foundational mineral for immune health, supporting the production of immune cells and enhancing the body’s ability to communicate between these cells[7][6][17]. Proper iron levels help the body mount a quicker and stronger response to infections, protecting you from illness.
• Selenium: Selenium has powerful immune-supporting properties, helping to balance inflammation and protect immune cells from damage[6][8]. This essential mineral supports both immediate and long-term immune defences, helping your body stay resilient against common infections by reducing oxidative stress[6][18].
• Vitamin A: Vitamin A is key for maintaining healthy mucous membranes in areas like the respiratory and digestive tracts, which act as barriers against infection[9][6]. It also supports the activity of immune cells, allowing your body to produce antibodies that help fight off infections more effectively[19].
• Vitamin B12: Vitamin B12 is essential for a balanced immune response, aiding in the production of immune cells and supporting DNA synthesis[10][20]. Adequate B12 levels help maintain a strong cellular immune response, which is particularly beneficial for older adults aiming to keep their immune system active and responsive[6][21][22].
• Vitamin B6: Vitamin B6 promotes the growth and function of immune cells, especially T-cells, which are key players in defending against infections[11]. Supporting the production of antibodies strengthens the body’s natural defences, ensuring a quicker and more effective immune response[6].
• Vitamin C: It is known for its powerful antioxidant properties, Vitamin C helps keep your immune system strong and resilient[12]. It supports your body’s defences against common colds and other infections, helping you recover more quickly if you do get sick[6]. It’s especially helpful for those with active lifestyles, supporting immunity even after intense physical activity[12].
• Vitamin D: Vitamin D is crucial for immune support across all age groups[13][14]. It helps regulate immune responses, encouraging the production of antimicrobial peptides that protect the respiratory system and reduce the likelihood of infections[23]. Maintaining adequate Vitamin D levels can keep your immune system balanced and effective.
• Zinc: Zinc is essential for immune cell development and function, supporting both the body’s initial defence and long-term immune responses[15]. As an antioxidant, it protects cells from damage and strengthens the body’s natural antiviral defences, helping to keep illnesses at bay[24][6].

The Benefits of Regular Immune-Boosting Support
A healthy immune system relies on various vitamins and minerals to function effectively. While a balanced diet should ideally provide these nutrients, it’s common for daily intake to fall short, impacting immune resilience. Regular use of immune-supporting products helps fill these gaps, offering benefits such as:

• Reduced occurrence and severity of common illnesses like colds and flu
• Lowered risk of respiratory tract infections
• Improved blood sugar regulation and metabolism
• Decreased inflammation and enhanced gut health
• Increased antibody levels for a stronger immune response
• Incorporating immune boosters like supplements or fortified foods into your routine can help you stay resilient, healthy, and ready to face everyday challenges.

Why Choose Immunity Booster Supplements?
Immunity booster supplements provide an efficient and reliable way to support your body’s defences, especially when getting all essential nutrients from food alone is challenging. Even with a balanced diet, consistently obtaining immune-supporting vitamins and minerals, such as zinc, selenium, and vitamins C, D, and B12, can be difficult. These supplements offer a simple and convenient way to fill in nutritional gaps, ensuring your immune system has the necessary support to function optimally.
With ingredients approved by UK health authorities, immunity supplements are formulated to enhance nutrient absorption, helping the body utilise these essential compounds effectively. By incorporating immunity boosters into your routine, you can reduce the occurrence of common illnesses, such as colds and flu, and bolster your resilience throughout the year.

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FAQs
1. What is immunity?
Immunity is the body’s natural defence mechanism, designed to protect against harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses. This complex system involves specialised cells, tissues, and organs that work together to identify and eliminate these threats, helping prevent infections and maintain overall health[25].
2. What are the natural ways to boost immunity?
Natural ways to support immunity include eating a balanced diet rich in vegetables and fruits, managing stress, staying physically active, and getting adequate sleep. Regular hydration and practices like hand hygiene also help maintain a robust immune system[26].
3. What foods support the immune system?
Foods high in vitamins C, D, and A, as well as zinc and antioxidants, can enhance immune function. Examples include citrus fruits, leafy greens, garlic, nuts, and lean proteins, which support the body in fighting infections and maintaining immune balance[27].
4. Can I take immunity-boosting supplements when I am on other medications?
It’s generally safe to take immunity-boosting supplements; however, if you are on other medications, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional. Certain supplements may interact with medications, so professional advice can help ensure safe and effective use.

References

1 - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279364/

2 - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459455/

3 - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279396/

4 - https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/1211

5 - https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/1213

6 - https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/selected-vitamins-and-trace-elements-support-immune-function-by-strengthening-epithelial-barriers-and-cellular-and-humoral-immune-responses/94B772EB747D1E5CD9FAC8F90937AA9F#ref69

7 - https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/1215

8 - https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/1220

9 - https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/1221

10 - https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/1223

11 - https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/1225

12 - https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/1226

13 - https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/1468

14 - https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/4096

15 - https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/1229

16 - https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0300483X03001598

17 - https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/cytokine

18 - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3277928/

19 - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6162863/

20 - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10305463/

21 - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10209501/

22 - https://scholar.google.com/scholar_lookup?title=Effects+of+a+nutritional+supplement+on+the+immune+response+and+cytokine+production+in+free-living+Chilean+elderly&author=Bunout+D&author=Barrera+G&author=Hirsch+S&author=Gattas+V&author=de+la+Maza+MP&author=Haschke+F&author=Steenhout+P&author=Klassen+P&author=Hager+C&author=Avendano+M&author=Petermann+M&author=Munoz+C&publication+year=2004&journal=J+Parenteral+Enteral+Nutr&volume=28&pages=348-354

23 - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3256336/

24 - https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2014.00014/full

25 - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279364/

26 - https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/how-to-boost-your-immune-system

27 - https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/ImmuneFunction-HealthProfessional/

28 - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535377/