Elderberry, Zinc & Vitamin C: The Holy Trinity of Immunity & Anti-aging
Science is always looking to cure diseases and reverse the effects of aging. Sickness and aging are partially due to cellular damage, and one of the ways cells get damaged is through unstable atoms called free radicals. Elderberry, zinc, and vitamin C supplements provide key nutrients in preventing disease caused by oxidative damage and the effects of aging.
There is a way to help your body fight illness and the negative impact of aging. Keep reading to learn more about elderberry, zinc, and vitamin C and the many health benefits they offer to the body separately and together.
The Benefits of Elderberry, Zinc, and Vitamin C
Unlock the power of the immune-boosting and anti-aging Holy Trinity: Elderberry, Zinc, and Vitamin C. Discover their remarkable health benefits.
Elderberry
Elderberry has been used for hundreds of years for a range of health benefits. This fruit contains antioxidants, which prevent or lessen the effects of free radicals in the body. Free radicals are believed to play a role in cancer, heart disease, and other illnesses.
Research and studies have shown that elderberry helps with the common cold and flu by reducing the severity of the symptoms and speeding up recovery. Its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antioxidant properties can help fight acne by protecting healthy cells from free radicals. Other benefits include soothing the skin and preventing or lessening signs of aging.
One study conducted on 312 air travelers required subjects to ingest supplements containing 300 mg of elderberry extract three times daily. It was discovered that these subjects experienced less severe symptoms of the common cold and a shorter duration of sickness.
Zinc
Zinc is an essential nutrient that the body doesn't naturally produce but is found in various foods or in a supplement. Food sources containing zinc are red meat, fortified cereals, chicken, legumes, nuts, seeds, and more. With a varied diet, it is possible to get enough of the nutrient; however, supplements can also be taken to compensate for any deficiency.
This nutrient is key to your body's metabolism and immune system. Zinc is vital in many of the body's processes, including enzymatic reactions, protein synthesis, DNA synthesis, gene expression, wound healing, and growth and development. It has been shown to assist skin health, reducing inflammation and decreasing the risk of age-related diseases.
One study conducted back in 2012 reported 13 randomized controlled trials proved that Zinc supplementation through lozenges or syrup shortened the duration of cold symptoms. Another controlled trial showed that 200 mg of zinc sulfate daily over two years reduced vision loss in those with AMD.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an absorbent acid essential to forming cartilage, blood vessels, collagen, and muscle in bones. This nutrient is also critical in helping the body absorb iron and assists the healing process. Like zinc, your body doesn't naturally produce vitamin C, but it is found in a variety of foods. Foods containing vitamin C include berries, tomatoes, potatoes, Brussels sprouts, spinach, citrus fruits, and more.
Like elderberry, this nutrient is also an antioxidant and assists in protecting your healthy cells against free radicals. Studies have shown that taking vitamin C can lessen the severity of the common cold and reduce healing time. Combined with other vitamins, it can also help lessen age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and reduce the risk of developing cataracts.
Nine studies were pooled together involving 293,172 subjects free of coronary heart disease and showed that those that took 700 mg of supplemental vitamin C daily had a 25% lower risk of coronary heart disease than those that did not take supplemental vitamin C. Another observational study showed that increased supplemental vitamin C intake reduced the risk of gastric cancer.
How Does Combining Elderberry, Zinc, and Vitamin C Help the Body?
Each of these products, elderberry, zinc, and vitamin C brings essential benefits to the body that help heal wounds and eliminate foreign invaders. Taking these nutrients separately already positively affects the body, but taking them together boosts their effects exponentially.
Combining these three nutrients primarily impacts immune support and anti-aging. All three nutrients are antioxidants that protect healthy cells from the effects of free radicals by inhibiting the oxidation process. Essential antioxidants rid the body of unstable atoms that damage healthy cells and change their DNA. Most bodily impairments and diseases come from cell damage and oxidative stress.
The effects of combining elderberry, zinc, and vitamin C are still currently being researched. Their relation to diseases like cancer, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions are actively being studied, including their ability to reverse the effects of oxidative stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Take Elderberry, Zinc, and Vitamin C Daily?
Yes, you can take elderberry, zinc, and vitamin C daily, provided you follow the recommended dosage for each, whether separately or through a combination of the three. Recommended dosages are advised to keep your body in homeostasis and should not be exceeded. Potential side effects can be triggered if too much of any supplement is taken.
What is the Right Dosage for Combining Elderberry, Zinc, and Vitamin C?
The recommended dosage in combination is dependent on your diet and calorie intake. Based on a 2,000-calorie diet, the daily value of vitamin C is 90 mg in combination with zinc at 15 mg. There is no recommended dosage of elderberry, and concentrations of this nutrient can vary among different brands and products.
Who Should Not Take Elderberry, Zinc, and Vitamin C Together?
Most people can take a combination of elderberry, zinc, and vitamin C without any adverse effects provided the recommended dosage is followed. However, it is advised that pregnant or nursing women, individuals with known medical conditions, and children under 18 should consult a physician before taking any supplements.
Final Thoughts
The effectiveness of elderberry, zinc, and vitamin C is undeniable. Immune support and prevention of some of the impacts of aging are found in these nutrients' properties. Depending on your diet, you may get these nutrients in your foods. Still, these essential nutrients often need to be supplemented to get the right amount to fight disease and degenerative conditions.