1. Vitamin D
A recent global collaborative study revealed that Vitamin D protects the body from colds and ‘flu. The study, which consisted of 35 randomised controlled trials and more than 11 000 participants, found that a Vitamin D supplement, prescribed for a host of other conditions, can actually prevent acute respiratory infections.
The research showed that daily or weekly supplementation had the greatest benefit for individuals with the most significant Vitamin D deficiency (blood levels below 10 mg/dl) — cutting their risk of respiratory infection in half — and that all participants experienced some improvement from regular vitamin D supplementation.
Releaf Probiotic Active 12-strain and Releaf Calcium Complex both contain Vitamin D3.
2. Quercetin
Several studies show that this antioxidant has powerful anti-inflammatory effects, helping to manage allergies, asthma, hay fever and other respiratory conditions. Quercetin is also indicated to assist in heart disease, stomach ulcers, bladder infections, skin disorders, high cholesterol and cognitive impairment.
Foods that are high in this beneficial anti-inflammatory include:
Apples
Peppers
Red wine
Dark cherries and berries (blueberries, bilberries, blackberries, cranberries etc.)
Tomatoes
Cruciferous veggies, including broccoli, cabbage and sprouts
Leafy green veggies, including spinach and kale
Citrus fruits
Cocoa
Whole grains, including buckwheat
Raw asparagus
Capers
Raw red onion
Olive oil
Black and green tea
Beans/legumes
3. Lycopene
Lycopene is a naturally occurring chemical that gives fruits and vegetables a red colour. Found in tomatoes, watermelons, apricots, pink grapefruits and guavas, Lycopene has strong antioxidant properties, helping to stimulate the immune system, support cardiac health and even fight cancer.
You can find both Quercetin and Lycopersicon esculentum in Releaf Cough and Cold Effervescent tablets, formulated to relieve common cold and hay fever symptoms like a runny nose, cough, pain and inflammation.
4. Zinc
Zinc is a mineral that’s vital to the body in many ways; helping to strengthen the immune system, heal wounds and support normal growth. Studies have shown that zinc can reduce the duration of the common cold by as much as 50 %, as well as fight a number of upper respiratory tract infections. This powerful mineral has also been indicated to help treat ulcers, ADHD, acne, sickle cell anaemia, and other conditions.
If your diet is high in Zinc-rich foods like oysters, beef, chicken, tofu, pork, hemp seeds, nuts, lentils, yoghurt, oatmeal and mushrooms, then it’s not necessary to take a Zinc supplement, (provided you get the recommended daily amount of 15mg).
But if you’re needing extra Zinc and digestive support, take Releaf Probiotic Active 12-Strain, which contains added Zinc, amongst many other vital vitamins.
As always, nature has the best medicine, so if you’re feeling weak and flu’ish this winter, turn to organic alternatives to help boost your immune system and check out Releaf Pharmaceuticals’ range of locally-made supplements that help you feel and live better.
Content from:
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/supplement-guide-zinc#1
https://www.health24.com/Diet-and-nutrition/Vitamins-minerals-and-supplements/Your-complete-guide-to-lycopene-20120721
https://draxe.com/quercetin/