Millions of people worldwide are affected by seasonal and food allergies. Allergies are hypersensitivity responses that occur when the immune system overreacts to substances that are normally harmless such as pollen, pet dander, or certain foods. Allergies are associated with a variety of symptoms such as sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, skin rashes and digestive symptoms. Some allergies need an immediate medical intervention as life threatening while most of the allergy management involves allergen avoidance and symptomatic treatment by medications. However, there is substantial research support on application of micronutrients in modulating the immune response and reducing allergy symptoms. Some of these include:

The winter months are usually marked by an increase in influenza cases all over the northern hemisphere. This winter has seen a significant increase in cases of respiratory infections including influenza, a continued rise in cases of COVID-19, and the additional threat from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections. This combination of three respiratory viruses, or “triple threat” which is also referred to as “tripledemic,” is a cause of concern for many. RSV is typically a mild infection causing cold and congestion. It is common in infants, the elderly, and people with a compromised immune system, and is the most common cause of respiratory complications including bronchitis and pneumonia in this population.

We are exposed to a variety of infectious agents in the environment such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites. One of the recently published studies indicates that viruses can spread from one person to another through very fine air particles exchanged just by breathing.¹ The tiny particles stay suspended in the air for a long time, even when the person may not be symptomatically ill. That means a sick person does not need to be coughing or sneezing to spread the virus. Any seasonal change challenges our immune system with new pathogens; therefore, our immune system needs to be functioning at its optimum to fight infectious agents.

Every year the shift towards cold temperatures in winter marks the beginning of flu season in the northern hemisphere. The spread of the flu virus is further facilitated by people gathering and staying indoors and by people with compromised immune systems. Therefore, many turn to supplements to support their immune system and boost internal protection against viruses. However, in choosing supplements most of us miss an important aspect that is the efficacy of the supplements to support healthy blood production and a strong immune system. This may be a reason why some people, despite regularly taking vitamins, become sick simply, because their body may not be properly absorbing the supplements. This knowledge is particularly important and something we should retain, as we get older.