We are all concerned about how well our immune systems are dealing with the evolving pandemic challenges. And I‘m convinced that we each need to take action to create an immune integrity plan.

Of course we need to follow public health guidelines to reduce our risks but how do you support your personal health to resist infections?

Over thirty years of research has shown that your immune system needs the appropriate fuel – in the form of the correct phytochemicals, which include vitamins, minerals, and other powerful components found in foods and herbal medicines. How to consume these nutrients at the correct dose to protect from the viruses in circulation has been the focus of a wealth of research over the last year and a half.

The evidence is clear -- you can take action to maximize your immune response to the novel viruses of concern. As we go forward into the fall and winter, this step is even more important.

I strongly recommend Immune Support Packets from Designs for Health (DFH). DFH is a forty year old, FDA registered nutrition company that has been a leader in science-based formulations for a wide range of health concerns.

This immune enhancement product makes taking responsibility for your health simple and cost effective.

See the "Notes and References" section below for an overview of the research on mechanisms of action and clinical outcomes on the ingredients in Immune Support Packets. Contact me for more information.

Zinc. As a general rule, adults should take 10 to 30 mg of zinc a day (ideally with 2,500 IU -- International Units -- of Vitamin A) during anytime of potential infection exposure, and for maximum viral load reduction it should be taken at the same time as Quercetin (or similar bioflavonoid). However, if you take the mRNA vaccines, you should stop zinc for at least a week before the first shot and hold until two weeks after the second shot. Certain levels of zinc at the time of mRNA vaccines may activate formation of prions, which are implicated in the development of severe neurological disease (and for which there are not well documented preventive or treatment strategies).

Quercetin, a bioflavonoid, is a zinc ionophore, which means that it transports zinc across the cell wall where so the mineral can work to prevent viral replication. After a few months with additional zinc, it is important to assess your zinc/copper balance.

Vitamin D. Ideally, measure Vitamin D levels before supplementation and every 3 to 6 months thereafter. An intake of 2,500 to10,000 IU (International Units) a day is sufficient to maintain an adequate immune response for most people. There is compelling evidence that Magnesium and Vitamin K2 are essential for optimal use of Vitamin D. There is a wealth of evidence on the immune regulating effects of Vitamin D, with recent work focused on its impact on COVID.

Vitamin C. Several papers now indicate that adequate Vitamin C levels are protective from, and can be an effective treatment for, many infections, including the current viruses of concern. Given that humans cannot adapt to low levels of this nutrient, and that current RDA's are designed to protect against deficiency diseases like scurvy (in non-pandemic situations and in a general population), it seems prudent to take at least 1,000 to 3,000 mg a day, in three divided doses. Depending on exposure to various stresses and underlying medical conditions, you may need to adjust your intake. If you have a G6PD genetic presentation, you must speak with your clinician before taking Vitamin C.

Andrographis. The well-documented benefits of this natural substance (for various coronaviruses) include reducing inflammation, increasing systemic immune function, blocking cell attachment/entry of viruses and direct anti-viral effects. Hundreds of published studies have shown these effects and, in more recent papers, specifically for the current coronavirus.

None of the information in this email or that posted on the Potomac Integrative Medicine website serves as medical advice. These suggestions do not imply a treatment or cure for COVID-19 or any disease. There is the potential for drug/herb/nutrient/food interactions, so please check with your health care provider before taking supplements or drugs. For more on FDA regulation of dietary supplements see: https://www.fda.gov/food/dietary-supplements