As summer winds down in the northern hemisphere, it?s time to start thinking about cold and flu season.

HERE ARE MY TOP 4 SUPPLEMENTS FOR BOOSTING IMMUNITY

Vitamin D3

Supplementing with Vitamin D3 is helpful in preventing acute respiratory infections and has shown to reduce the chance of contracting influenza. It?s also a mood elevator which can be helpful during the long winter months when sunshine is limited.

• Recommended dosage: 1,000 to 5,000 IU during Fall and Winter. It is possible to take too much Vitamin D3, so be sure to have your levels checked at your annual exam.

Vitamin C

Taking vitamin C while you’re healthy could lessen the severity of your symptoms and help you get better faster if you get sick.?Vitamin C also helps protect cells against oxidative stress, which provides protection against certain diseases. Ideally, you?ll want to get your daily requirements from foods like broccoli, tomatoes, citrus fruits, bell peppers, strawberries, kale, and kiwi, but when that?s not possible supplementation is a good option. I like Vitamin C powder and Lypo-spheric.

• Recommended dosage: Follow the manufacturer?s instructions on the package or ask your medical professional.

Zinc

Zinc has a reputation for shortening the duration of colds and helping you feel better faster. Red meat, poultry, and oysters are excellent sources of zinc. Baked beans, chickpeas, and nuts (especially cashews and almonds) also contain zinc.

Lozenges and capsules are the most commonly purchased forms. If you choose lozenges, check the ingredients for sugar content. Sugar lowers immunity so it?s best to avoid brands high in sugar. I prefer Zand brand that combines zinc and elderberry for the lozenges and Pure Encapsulations for the capsules.

• Recommended dosage: 1 lozenge daily or 1 capsule daily during cold and flu season. Be sure to check recommended dosage on the label.

Elderberry

Elderberries have been used for thousands of years to support healing of viral upper respiratory infections like the flu. It also relieves the discomfort associated with cold and cough symptoms. The berries are rich in antioxidants and boost immune health with their antimicrobial properties. Taking this supplement in early Fall helps prevent flu and other viral respiratory illnesses. It also complements the flu fighting effects of Vitamin D3. Lozenges, gummies, and syrup are the most popular forms of this supplement.

• Recommended dosage: 2 Gummies/day, 1 lozenge/day and 1 teaspoon syrup/day.

Remember to read the labels. Make sure you?re getting what you pay for because companies have been known to add fillers to cut costs.

As with all changes in your health routine, talk to your medical professional to determine what?s right for you.

Wishing you the best of health for the upcoming Fall and Winter season!