It is more important now than ever to maintain the health of our immune system.

Our immune system is the first line of defense against illness, and as COVID-19 cases continue to climb in Shelby County, staying healthy should be top priority.

Cordova Medical Clinic has introduced a new “Immune Boost” shot to protect against immune system deficiencies and help fight infection.

The Immune Boost shot is specially formulated with 5 immune boosting ingredients including Vitamin C, Glutathione (GSH), Thiamine (B1), Pyridoxine (B6), and Niacinamide (B3). These ingredients are used at a local hospital as part of their COVID-19 treatment panel (in addition to Vitamin D and Zinc).

Vitamin C

Vitamin C enhances the function of the immune system by protecting cells from free radicals. Free radicals are unstable atoms that cause damage to cells and lead to illness and aging. Vitamin C also helps white blood cells migrate to the site of infection, promotes the production of collagen and takes part in regenerating other antioxidants within the body. Taking extra Vitamin C at the onset of a cold may reduce symptoms and decrease its duration.

Vitamin C is an essential vitamin that cannot be made by the body. Not enough is associated with poor immunity and higher risk of infection.
Some signs of low Vitamin C are bruising, painful swollen joints, dry rough skin, slow healing of wounds, fatigue, dry hair, split ends, and even anxiety.

Taking a supplement orally can help increase Vitamin C levels some, but it is limited by how much can be absorbed by the intestines. With a shot, the body is able to use ALL the Vitamin C in an injection because it bypasses the whole GI system. Another benefit of increased Vitamin C intake is a lower risk of lung, breast, or colon cancer.

The Immune Boost shot contains 100mg/ml of Vitamin C.

Glutathione (GSH) – “Master Antioxidant”

Glutathione is an amazing detoxification molecule that provides fuel for the immune system. It is made of three amino acids – Cystine, Glycine, and Glutamic Acid. Glutathione is known as a ‘master antioxidant’ that protects mitochondria from damaging free radicals. It also plays an important role in making more white blood cells in response to an infection. When Glutathione levels fall, so does the immune system, and the risk of disease and cellular death increase. It is also crucial for detoxification in the liver.

Glutathione can be taken orally but supplements are not the most reliable because they are easily degraded by stomach acid. The Immune Boost shot contains 100mg/ml of Glutathione.

Thiamine (B1) – “Anti-Stress Vitamin”

Thiamine (B1) is called the “anti-stress” vitamin because it helps the body cope with stress. “Thiamine is involved in many body functions including the nervous system, heart and muscles,” said Dr. Sherry Ross, gynecologist and Women’s Health Expert at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California. “Thiamine is also used for maintaining a positive mental attitude, preventing memory loss, enhancing learning abilities, fighting stress and increasing energy.” Thiamine is found in foods such as meats, fish, whole grains, beans, and sunflower seeds. People taking diuretics or those with vitamin absorption problems are more likely to develop a thiamine deficiency. Symptoms of a thiamine deficiency include confusion, memory loss, muscle weakness, and lowered immunity. The Immune Boost shot contains 10mg/ml of Thiamine.

Pyridoxine (B6) – “ Mood Vitamin”

Pyridoxine (B6) is a vitamin that is necessary for creating neurotransmitters that regulate emotions, including serotonin, dopamine, and GABA. It supports a healthy immune system by helping make antibodies, which are necessary for fighting off infections. Vitamin B6 also helps the body make new red blood cells, which carry oxygen to our organs.

Not getting enough B6 can lead to anemia, increased risk of risk of heart disease, confusion, depression, irritability, and mouth sores. Vitamin B6 is found in tuna, salmon, banana, beans, nuts, chicken, and whole grains.
The Immune Boost shot contains 3mg/ml, of B6 (the recommended daily amount of B6 is between 1.3 and 2.0 mg/day). It is possible to have too much B6, so it is important not to exceed 100mg per day.

Niacinamide (B3)

Niacinamide (B3) aids in blood circulation, boosts brain function, and protects skin cells from sun damage. It supports the immune system by helping increase neutrophils that kill and eat harmful bacteria. B3 in found in poultry, beef, fish, nuts and grains. Vitamin B3 also helps immune cells kill “Superbugs”. Superbugs are bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics.

The Niacinamide form of B3 does not cause the redness and flushing associated with the “Niacin” form of B3. The amount of Niacinamide contained in the Immune Boost shot is 10mg/ml.

A well-functioning immune system is vital to our health and well-being. When our immune system is weakened, we are more likely to get sick, and less able to fight off toxins, viruses, or bacteria. One of the best ways to stay healthy is eating a diet rich in vital antioxidant vitamins and amino acids. The USDA recommends eating nine servings of fruits and vegetables daily for a healthy diet. Unfortunately, only about 10-20% of people manage to eat all nine servings. The Immune Boost shot is a great way to bridge the gap and strengthen your immune system while working towards a healthier diet and transitioning to a healthier lifestyle.