The COVID-19 Delta variant is now circulating in the United States, causing fear and great concern for many Americans. As we continue this fight against COVID-19, it is important to maintain optimal natural immunity. There are many different supplements and products that have varying degrees of evidence demonstrating that they may be helpful in supporting a strong immune system, including elderberry* and the supplements that make up CMMD’s Immune Defense Support Package*.
What is Elderberry?
Elderberries are a dark purple fruit that come from a tree variety known as Sambucus. Various parts of the elderberry tree have been used for medicinal purposes, such as relieving pain, swelling, inflammation, and more. The fruit of the elderberry tree is packed with antioxidants and vitamins that may also help maintain and support natural immunity.
Packed With Nutrients
Elderberries are packed with antioxidants and other essential nutrients that may help address cold and flu symptoms. In just one cup of fresh elderberries, there are 52 mg of vitamin C, which accounts for 57% of the recommended daily value.
Anthocyanins are the compounds that give this fruit its vivid, dark purple color. Anthocyanins have also been found to be a strong antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties.
One study on rats also found that elderberry polyphenols, a micronutrient packed with antioxidants, may support immune defense by increasing the number of white blood cells.
Elderberry also contains the following vitamins and minerals that may contribute to a strong immune system:
- Vitamin A
- Potassium
- Folate
- Calcium
- Iron
High in Antioxidants
Antioxidants are natural molecules found in fruits and vegetables that protect cells from damage. They help neutralize harmful substances called free radicals in our bodies. Elderberries are an excellent source of antioxidants, which may contribute to their medicinal benefits.
Doc’s Immune Defense Support Package
To help support and maintain optimal natural immunity, Dr. Schiff has created an immune defense support package* that includes the following essential vitamins:
Vitamin D
Vitamin D, also known as the “sunshine vitamin,” isn’t just for bone health. This essential nutrient also helps support the immune system. A vitamin D deficiency has been associated with an increase in inflammatory cytokines and significantly increased risk of viral upper respiratory tract infections. Medical literature has shown the association of low vitamin D levels and an increased susceptibility of contacting COVID-19 and and a greater likelihood of having a more severe infection.
Daily or weekly vitamin D supplementation may benefit individuals with low levels of vitamin D by cutting their chances of contracting the flu in half.*
Zinc
Zinc is a mineral that is a major player in the creation of DNA, growth of cells, building proteins, healing damaged tissue and supporting a healthy immune system. Zinc works by inhibiting viral replication within the cells of the body. Thus, by killing or inhibiting the reproduction of viruses such as the new COVID-19 Delta variant, Zinc allows our body’s natural immune defenses to neutralize the remaining viruses.*
Quercetin
Quercetin is a plant bioflavonoid antioxidant that is believed to assist with the absorption of Zinc into our cells so as to maximize Zinc’s antiviral effects.*
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an essential micronutrient that contributes to immune defense by supporting various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune system. Vitamin C helps facilitate the production and function of white blood cells, which help the body fight infection and other diseases.*
Melatonin
According to research, melatonin enhances both innate and cellular immunity. It is believed to be an immune modulator possessing both anti-inflammatory or pro-inflammatory properties, depending on the body’s needs.
Sleep deprivation may also affect the immune system. Fortunately, a melatonin supplement may help promote better sleep for individuals with insomnia or other sleep conditions.*
CardioMender, MD has put together a package of Dr. Schiff’s personal choices for optimizing maintenance of the body’s immune defenses. Click this link for the CMMD Immune Defense Support Package*.
*Statements made are for educational purposes and have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. You should consult your healthcare practitioner before making decisions about health conditions and/or therapies.
