Dear Friends: We hope this note finds you well as we all wrestle with the consequences of this novel virus and how to proceed forward in a healthy way. We would like to share with you more specifics about how to improve your immune system with particular examples of nutraceuticals we find helpful (and which I personally take) and also some exciting information about a new product.
One of the challenges many of us have faced is dealing with the rapid and often incorrect and inconsistent information concerning the health implications of COVID-19. We understand much of this is due to the fog of war and the ensuing multiple moving parts. However, experts and organizations across many disciplines have made costly mistakes in areas that they should’ve known better. For example, hospitals created plans for the triage, isolation, and treatment of sick patients but there were no similar plans for nursing homes and assisted living centers who’ve always had high morbidity and mortality rates from respiratory viral infections. Alcohol and places that sell it have been deemed essential but Alcoholics Anonymous has been shut down. Large retail stores with their understandably crowded spaces are open and acceptable but parks and beaches are restricted if not closed.
Perhaps the most egregious is that there is no talk about the immune system and how to improve it. Health experts and politicians have not created any public service announcements on immunity. There have been no broad and frequent statements about acceptable and simple ways to boost one’s immune system. Common sense and agreeable ways to help one’s immune system include: cut out sugar, eat a healthy and colorful diet, get plenty of sleep and regular exercise, manage stress levels, and get plenty of sunshine.
“The wise healer uses that which works, is safe, and based on good science.” -Dr. Mark Houston
There continues to be more studies and research looking at the role of vitamins to help protect against viral infections.
The role nutrition plays in supporting the immune system is well-established. A wealth of mechanistic and clinical data show that vitamins, including vitamins A, B6, B12, C, D, E, and folate; trace elements, including zinc, iron, selenium, magnesium, and copper; and the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid play important and complementary roles in supporting the immune system. Inadequate intake and status of these nutrients are widespread, leading to a decrease in resistance to infections and as a consequence an increase in disease burden.
Here is what I have been taking that helps to support and protect my immune system:
(The following products can be viewed by creating an account on our Fullscript dispensary if you do not have one already)
- Multivitamin and mineral pack with antioxidants and Omega 3- Ortho Molecular Products
- Vitamin D3 with K2- Ortho Molecular Products
- Vitamin C and minerals (capsules and powder)- Klaire Labs
- Quercetin- DHist- Ortho Molecular Products
- Zinc- Designs For Health
- Elderberry- liquid or chewable tablets
- NAC and mushroom blend- Designs For Health
- Probiotic- Klaire Labs
- SPM- Metagenics
- Insomnitol chews w/ melatonin- Designs For Health
- Adrenal supplement- HPA adapt and Daily Stress Formula- PURE
- NeuroMag- Designs For Health (this is interchangeable with OptiMag Neuro listed below)
- Xlear (now on Amazon) and silver sprays
- Protein powders per prior write up- MycoPure, Functional Plant Protein, LifeCORE
(The next two products can be viewed by creating an account on our Wholescripts dispensary)
- Essential Aminos -Xymogen
- OptiMag Neuro powder-Xymogen (this is interchangeable with NeuroMag listed above)
Lastly, I would like to officially announce a new immune product coming soon. We are in the final stages of formulating a comprehensive and convenient supplement that will be able to replace many of the essential immune nutrients. My wife likes to point out that not everyone can take 20 pills like Tamara and I. So, we are creating this combination for those like my wife in mind. More to come soon.
Yours in health-
Dr. Sam Pappas and Pappas Health
