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Which is Better for Immune Support: Vitamin C, Zinc, or Elderberry?

which is better for immune support – vitamin C, zinc, elderberry

Learn which is better for immune support – vitamin C, zinc, elderberry?

The cold winter months are often associated with seasonal illnesses like colds and stomach bugs. When the weather turns cool, we spend more time indoors, allowing germs to circulate more rapidly. Additionally, our immune systems slow down when the weather is cold, and we have a more difficult time fighting off viruses we come in contact with.

One way to stay healthy in the winter is to support and strengthen your immune system. But which supplement or product is best for immune support? This week Professional Supplement Center has the info you’re looking for on vitamin C, zinc, elderberry and other immune support products.

Best Supplements for Immune Support

The best way to stay healthy in the face of illness is to take good care of your body with a balanced diet, exercise, proper sleep, and limited stress. Immune support supplements are designed to work in harmony with a healthy lifestyle.

That being said, you have a lot of options when it comes to supplements that support your immune response. Here are some common supplements and how they stack up against each other.

Vitamin C

For years you’ve been told that vitamin C is an easy way to keep colds and illness at bay. It turns out that this popular belief is true, vitamin C is an excellent way to support the immune system. In fact, studies show that those with inadequate levels of vitamin C are more prone to colds and seasonal illnesses.

Eating a healthy diet is an easy way to ensure adequate levels of vitamin C, so reach for foods like oranges, strawberries, spinach, kale, and broccoli all winter long. For a highly absorbable type of vitamin C, try Liposomal Vitamin C Softgels from Core Med Science.

Zinc 

Zinc is a nutrient found throughout your body that plays a vital role in supporting a healthy immune response. In fact, studies show that boosting with zinc at the onset of a cold or other virus can keep you healthy, or at least shorten the length and severity of illness.

If you’re looking to ensure enough zinc in your daily diet, fill your grocery cart or online order with lean meats, shellfish, nuts, legumes, seeds, eggs, and whole grains. For starters, try Zinc 30 from Pure Encapsulations.

Elderberry

For thousands of years, elderberries (or sambucus nigra) have been believed to treat a number of health concerns. In today’s modern world, elderberry syrups and supplements are used as a way to stay healthy and provide immune support. Research shows that elderberry supplements are effective at shortening and staving off influenza and other seasonal illnesses. For elderberry support, try ViraPro Elderberry Immune Blend from Terry Naturally.

Supplements for Immune Support 

If you’re looking to stock your medicine cabinet with products designed to support your immune system this winter, here are a few we recommend:

Liposomal Vitamin C Sunflower Formula by Core Med Science 

If you’re looking to boost your Vitamin C intake, Liposomal Vitamin C Sunflower Formula by Core Med Science is an easy way to do it. The liposomal formula increases absorption, allowing your body to optimize use of the 5 ml of Vitamin C.

Zinc Lozenges with Elderberry from Professional Supplement Center

Professional Supplement Center‘s Zinc Lozenge with elderberry delivers immune boosters to the throat and sinuses in this delicious and soothing lozenge. Not only do you get a dose of zinc and elderberry but vitamin D3 as well.

What is your go-to immune support in the winter months? Share your advice for staying healthy in the comments section below.

The Link Between Vitamin C Serum and Collagen for Healthy-Looking Skin

vitamin C serum and collagen

To improve the overall look and health of your skin, start with vitamin C serum and collagen supplements.

Want healthier skin? You don’t have to go to extremes to get it. In fact, it’s pretty simple. Look for products containing vitamin C serum and collagen, and the rest will pretty much take care of itself. We’ll tell you why.

Vitamin C Serum

Vitamin C serums are skin care products that are infused with vitamin C. They are applied topically to your skin, and usually packaged as a gel or lotion so they are highly moisturizing. Here are just a few other reasons why a vitamin C serum like Vitamin C Concentrated Serum by Derma E might be good choice for your skin:

  • It’s an Antioxidant – That means it can help reverse skin damage caused by the sun and other environmental hazards such as chemicals and pollution.
  • Added Sun Protection – If you use a vitamin C serum along with your sunscreen, it will increase your protection from harmful UV rays.
  • Reduces Inflammation – Vitamin C serums help calm inflammation that causes redness. It can also help even skin tone caused by hyperpigmentation.
  • Protects Against Premature Aging – Vitamin C encourages new cell growth, including collagen which help keep your skin looking plump and youthful.

Collagen Supplements

Collagen is an important protein found in your bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, skin, and hair. You can find collagen supplements in a variety of options including powders such as Collagen Peptides by Vital Proteins, capsules such as Collagen JS 1000 mg by Pure Encapsulations, and topical skin products such as Collagen HA Triple Boost Face Serum by Hyalogic. You’ve probably heard about the advantages of using collagen supplements for your skin, here are just a few:

  • Overall Skin Health – Studies show that collagen supplements can help boost your overall skin health and appearance. Many say they notice that their skin feels more moisturized and looks healthier.
  • May Prevent Acne – There is some research to support the claim that collagen supplements may prevent skin conditions, such as acne.
  • Helps Build Structure – Collagen is what helps support our skin’s structure. As we age, we begin to lose collagen, which can be seen when our skin starts to sag. Taking collagen supplements can help your body build back up its reserves, resulting in plumper, more youthful looking skin.

If you’re serious about improving the overall look and health of your skin, vitamin C serums and collagen supplements are a great place to start. Neither require invasive therapies, and they have proven track records for visible results. See what they can do for you!

About Supplemental Forms of Vitamin C

Vitamin CJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient critically important for many biological functions. Notably, vitamin C acts as cofactor for a number of enzymatic reactions, including collagen, carnitine and catecholamine synthesis, as well as wound healing and neurotransmitter production. As a potent antioxidant, vitamin C strengthens the body’s natural defenses by scavenging damaging free radicals, thereby providing protection against oxidative stress-induced cellular damage. In fact, vitamin C is the body’s primary water-soluble antioxidant. Adequate daily intake of antioxidants like vitamins C and E is vital to combat the pro-inflammatory effects of free radicals. Several epidemiological studies have found that vitamin C may protect against coronary heart disease and gout, diseases with inflammatory components. Higher blood levels of vitamin C are associated with lower C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, a substance produced by the liver associated with overall and cardiac-related inflammation.

Unlike other mammals, the human body is unable to synthesize vitamin C, meaning it must be obtained through vitamin C-rich foods or through daily supplementation. Even in small amounts, vitamin C protects indispensable molecules including proteins, lipids, carbohydrates and nucleic acids from free radicals, as well as reactive oxygen species (ROS). Generated through normal metabolism and immune cell activity, as well as exposure to toxins and pollutants, ROS have the potential to wreak havoc on a broad range of macromolecules when produced in excess. Though the debate continues, overall evidence shows that regular intake of sufficient vitamin C may shorten the duration of, but not cure, the common cold. Additionally, by enhancing intestinal absorption of non-heme iron, Vitamin C increases the bioavailability of iron obtained from the diet. Plasma levels of vitamin C are tightly controlled by intestinal absorption, tissue transport and renal reabsorption.

Supplemental forms of Vitamin C explained:

Ascorbic acid: Ascorbic acid is the biologically active form of vitamin C found naturally in certain fruits and vegetables. It may also be obtained through extended-release capsules, lozenges, chewable tablets, powders and in liquid form. Vitamin C plays important roles in the growth and repair of all bodily tissues including skin, tendons, ligaments and blood vessels. It aids in the repair and maintenance of cartilage, bones and teeth, as well as wound healing and scar tissue formation.

Mineral ascorbates: Less acidic, and therefore less irritating to the gastrointestinal tract than other forms, buffered mineral ascorbates are often recommended to those with intestinal issues. With mineral ascorbates, both the mineral and the ascorbic acid appear to be well absorbed. There are many forms available for those wishing to increase individual mineral intake along with vitamin C, including potassium, magnesium, zinc, chromium, manganese and molybdenum. Sodium ascorbate is milder than ascorbic acid and more stomach friendly but may not be suitable for those on a low sodium diet for high blood pressure. As well, those who are taking potassium-sparing diuretics or those with renal insufficiency should avoid significant intake of potassium ascorbate.

Vitamin C with bioflavonoids: Research suggests that vitamin C and bioflavonoids have a complementary effect. Naturally occurring plant-derived antioxidant chemical compounds known collectively as polyphenols, flavonoids work synergistically with vitamin C. Flavonoids may affect the transport of vitamin C throughout the body and may also influence the absorption and utilization of vitamin C. In addition, vitamin C with flavonoids may offer additional protection against coronary heart disease, as well as protect nerve cells from damage.

Ascorbates and vitamin C metabolites (Ester-C®): Ester-C® contains calcium ascorbates as well as small amounts of vitamin C metabolites, such as threonate, shown in studies to increase the bioavailability of vitamin C.

Vitamin C insufficiency can be seen in approximately 40 percent of the U.S. adult population. Smokers and those with diets deficient in fruits and vegetables are advised to increase consumption of vitamin C-rich foods such as citrus fruits, strawberries and kiwi, as well as cruciferous vegetables including broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. Daily high quality vitamin C supplementation can help ensure adequate intake of this vitally important essential nutrient.

Professional Supplement Center offers these and other high quality vitamin C supplements in support of overall health:

Pure Ascorbic AcidPure Ascorbic Acid by Pure Encapsulations®: This hypoallergenic formula provides 1,000 mg of vitamin C as ascorbic acid per serving. Necessary for connective tissue heath and the maintenance of bones and teeth, this essential nutrient provides powerful antioxidant support for cellular and overall health. Also available in powdered form. Gluten free, Non-GMO formulation.

Vitamin C plusVitamin C + by Professional Supplement Center®ON SALE Vitamin C + provides high potency buffered vitamin C as well as bioavailable mineral cofactors and bioflavonoids for optimal absorption and utilization. Vitamin C is provided in ascorbate form to inhibit stomach irritation. Gluten free vegetarian formulation.

Ester-C® FlavonoidsEster-C® and Flavonoids by Pure Encapsulations®: This hypoallergenic formula provides vitamin C as calcium ascorbate enhanced with flavonoid compounds to help maintain a healthy immune system, blood vessel integrity and cellular health. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

References:
Overview of Inflammation: https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/health-disease/inflammation
Vitamins C and E: Beneficial effects from a mechanistic perspective. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3156342/
The Bioavailability of Different Forms of Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid). https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/vitamins/vitamin-C/supplemental-forms
Free Radicals and Reactive Oxygen. http://www.vivo.colostate.edu/hbooks/pathphys/topics/radicals.html
Vitamin C: Sources & Benefits: https://www.livescience.com/51827-vitamin-c.html
Plant polyphenols as dietary antioxidants in human health and disease. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2835915/
The Benefits of Taking 500 mg of Buffered Vitamin C. https://healthyeating.sfgate.com/benefits-taking-500mg-buffered-vitamin-c-10912.html