Nutrients to Help You Breathe Easy this Spring!

When you think of Spring, images of melting snow, chirping birds, and an increasingly greener and livelier landscape likely come to mind. Unfortunately, for many, these pleasant changes in the weather can also bring springtime woes that lead to respiratory discomfort. Left unchecked, this can dampen what should be one of the most exciting times of the year. The good news is that, with the right nutrients, you can equip your body to fight back so you can fully enjoy the world as it wakes up from its winter slumber.

Whether it’s the powerful antioxidant effects of curcumin, the immune-supporting mineral zinc or the broad-spectrum activity that only EpiCor can deliver, finding the right supplement can make all the difference.

Here are 10 excellent options to give you a springtime boost:

Top 10 Nutrients for Seasonal Support

Curcumin

The active compound found in turmeric, curcumin has been used as a traditional tonic for thousands of years. It’s known for a wide variety of health applications, but contemporary research has focused on curcumin's ability to support the immune system and provide robust seasonal defense. Studies indicate that curcumin plays a role in supporting respiratory and nasal health in those battling seasonal issues, while also promoting immune system function.¹

Pycnogenol

Though it may have a funny name, the health benefits of Pycnogenol^® are significant. This patented compound, derived from the bark of a French maritime pine tree, contains some of the most potent antioxidant flavonoids discovered. Among its many health benefits, it supports the body’s ability to combat seasonal effects. Studies suggest that taking a Pycnogenol^® supplement can be particularly effective in boosting respiratory and sinus health.^2,3

Quercetin

A powerful antioxidant flavonoid, quercetin is found in a variety of foods and plants such as apples, various berries, green tea, red grapes, onions, and ginkgo biloba. Quercetin's antioxidant power is effective in promoting immune function, and studies have also shown that it supports sinus and respiratory health, making quercetin supplementation an excellent option for your springtime health routine.⁴

Zinc

In recent years, zinc has become a go-to for seasonal support. As a mineral and essential micronutrient, zinc offers numerous health benefits and functions throughout the body, excelling in promoting immune system health. Zinc’s popularity for helping combat seasonal difficulties is backed by science. Research indicates that zinc plays a role in supporting respiratory function, muscle comfort, and sinus health.⁵

Vitamin C

Water-soluble vitamin C is a potent source of antioxidants and plays a significant role in supporting the strength and function of the immune system. Studies have shown that vitamin C can shorten the duration of seasonal health concerns and boost respiratory function, sinus health, and skin health.^6,7

Stinging Nettle Root

Don’t let the name deter you; when dealing with the challenges of Spring, stinging nettle can be the ally you need. While best known for its urinary tract and prostate health benefits, its ability to ease springtime woes should not be underestimated. Clinical studies have demonstrated that stinging nettle root extract supports respiratory function and sinus health for seasonal relief.⁸

EpiCor

A stellar source of high-metabolite immunogens, EpiCor^® is created using natural yeast that undergoes a fermentation and drying process, resulting in a powerful tool for a strong immune system. Studies have shown that EpiCor^® supplementation can significantly help combat springtime woes thanks to its health-boosting abilities, including providing seasonal support and boosting eye, respiratory, and sinus health.^9,10

Beta Glucan

If you’re looking to supercharge your immune system, finding a quality beta glucan supplement should be high on your list of priorities. Beta glucans are sugars found within the cell walls of yeast, seaweed, and plants like oats and barley, and lichens. As an immunomodulator, beta glucan helps promote a healthy immune defense and has been shown to boost respiratory health.¹¹

Butterbur Root

It may not be well-known, but when Spring arrives and there are more particles in the air, butterbur root has proven helpful. An herbal supplement, butterbur (or petasites hybridus) is a flowering plant native to parts of central Europe. Studies have shown that butterbur is effective in supporting respiratory function and promoting healthy sinuses when taken in supplement form.¹²

Astragalus

Astragalus is a cornerstone of traditional Chinese herbalism, packed with over 100 active compounds like saponins, polysaccharides, amino acids, and more.¹³ Taking an astragalus supplement is an outstanding way to promote cardiovascular and liver health while bolstering the immune system. Specifically, studies have indicated that astragalus is particularly effective in supporting respiratory and sinus health.¹⁴

Seasonal Respiratory Support

From rain showers to sunshine (and sometimes snow!), spring weather can keep us guessing about what to wear. Thankfully, there's no guesswork with these seasonal helpers for general respiratory effects like watery eyes, sneezing, or even a runny nose!

• Ayr® Nasal Mist: Seasonal support for sinuses that helps flush nasal passages to keep airways open
• Allergiemittle Alleraide: Natural, homeopathic support to promote the relief of runny nose, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, and more
• Alavert: Temporary seasonal relief featuring non-drowsy, citrus-flavored tablets that dissolve in your mouth
• Similasan Eye Relief: Promotes comfort for red, irritated eyes while offering temporary multi-symptom relief
• MediNatura Relief Tablets: Offers temporary relief of runny nose, watery eyes, and more while supporting your body’s ability to fight nasal congestion and minor skin irritation
• Good Sense Relief: Easy-to-swallow tablets that support your body against the effects of the seasonal blahs

Have a Healthy, Happy Spring

We hope this article will help you face the season ahead with the confidence and knowledge of knowing which nutrients and herbal ingredients will keep you feeling your absolute best. We’d love to hear from you and welcome you to share your own springtime health tips below.

Also, be sure to sign up for BubbForest Health Emails for the latest and greatest expert tips delivered to your inbox, plus our best springtime promotions!

About Lindsey Toth, MS, RD

Lindsey is a nationally recognized registered dietitian and nutritionist with a soft spot for pie. She empowers people to take charge of their health by finding the balance between the pleasure and nourishment in food. Her philosophy is that you should take care of your body because it’s the only permanent home you have. It’s what inspired her to pursue a career in nutrition.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Sources

1. Effect of Curcumin. ScienceDirect. Read source

2. Study to Evaluate the Potential of Pycnogenol. PubMed. Read source

3. Inhibitory Effect of Pycnogenol. National Library of Medicine. Read source

4. Quercetin. PubMed. Read source

5. Zinc. National Library of Medicine. Read source

6. Extra Dose of Vitamin C. PubMed. Read source

7. The Effect of Vitamin C. Journal of Allergy, Asthma, and Clinical Immunology. Read source

8. Efficacy of Stinging Nettle. National Library of Medicine. Read source

9. Effects of a Modified Yeast Supplement. Urologic Nursing. See source

10. Immunogenic Yeast-Based Fermentation Product. Pubmed. Read source

11. Baker’s Yeast Beta Glucan Supplementation. National Library of Medicine. Read source

12. Randomized Controlled Trial of Butterbur. National Library of Medicine. Read source

13. Review of the Botanical Characteristics of Astragalus. PubMed.