Vaccines train our immune systems to create antibodies to fight specific diseases. Once the body has learned how to produce antibodies, it also creates antibody-producing memory cells, which keep a blueprint of sorts for future reference.
If the body is exposed to the same pathogen once more, the immune system is fast to respond because the memory cells are ready to pump out antibodies against the pathogen.
But what happens if your immune system is weak or compromised and isn’t working optimally? You experience a wave of side effects.
This is why boosting your immune system before you take a vaccine can help your body prevent any reactions. And having a strong immune system can help the vaccine be more effective as your body can produce more antibody-producing memory cells when your immune system is robust.
Data from past vaccination records show that the following groups are more likely to have adverse reactions from vaccines:
- Immunocompromised individuals
- Individuals with history of severe allergies
- Individuals with higher loads of environmental toxins
- Individuals with a history of gastrointestinal issues
- Individuals with genetic abnormalities
How to strengthen your immune system
There is no doubt that the stronger your immune system is prior to receiving your covid vaccine, the less likely you are to have negative side effects. Here are some things you can do to help.
Get your daily dose of Vitamin D
Vitamin D has proved to be a key nutrient in both the prevention and treatment of Covid-19. One study showed that 80% of patients hospitalized due to Covid-19 had low levels of Vitamin D.
Vitamin D blocks viral acquisition by strengthening barriers, it inhibits viral replication, it supports the immune system, it also supports mitochondrial function in your cells, and it reduces inflammation.
Load up on micronutrients
Vitamin C, vitamin A, zinc, magnesium and selenium are some of the best nutrients to help boost your immune system. Additional micronutrients such as folate (vitamin B9) and niacin (vitamin B3) are equally important.
Feed your microbiome
The quality of your gut bacteria is directly linked to your immune system. Probiotics, which are living microorganisms that can be consumed through fermented foods are an excellent way to support your immune system.
Probiotics help boost your immune system by inhibiting growth of harmful gut bacteria as well as promote the production of natural antibodies.