Immunity is the top concern among people across the globe as the COVID-19 pandemic has raged onward, like a wildfire.
And for very good reason, the stronger one’s immune system is, the better he or she is able to fend off invasive agents that can cause enervation and/or illness.
Vitamin C, zinc, the herb echinacea, all tend to be top sellers, and each do work to promote immune health. Two other herbs shown to help the immune system function optimally are a specific extract of Andrographis paniculata (ParActin®) and a specific extract of Eurycoma longifolia (LJ100®, also called Tongkat ali).
But the king of them all has been elderberry (Sambucus nigra), which has effectively been sold out worldwide. Elderberry is a popular European berry used traditionally to treat upper respiratory tract infections, among other temporary conditions such as headache or toothache. It is rich in flavonoids, anthocyanins as well as several essential vitamins (including C) and compounds specifically found only in elderberries. Elderberry syrup has been a staple for more than two decades on the dietary supplement shelves, immune support section, especially during the winter when the risk of cold and flu is higher.
But there is another berry that also has strong, credible research to support overall immune function all year long – maqui. Similar to elderberry, maqui is also a majestic dark purple, but is more than double the amount of anthocyanins (the health-promoting compounds in berries).
MaquiCare maqui berry (Aristotelia chilensis) is the highest known antioxidant superfruit, with the highest ORAC value (27600), containing elevated concentration of polyphenols and anthocyanins. Anthocyanins are known to neutralize enzymes that can destroy connective tissues, promote cardiovascular health by preventing oxidation of low-density lipoproteins (LDL), protect blood vessel walls from oxidative damage, and support healthy blood glucose levels. Anthocyanins in MaquiCare are unique as 80% of all anthocyanins in MaquiCare are delphinidin, the most important anthocyanidin found in dark berries. Delphinidin is reported to exert superior antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Maqui berry (Aristotelia chilensis) is a deep purple berry that thrives in the harsh climate in the Patagonia region, one of the cleanest places on the earth. Maqui berry has been traditionally consumed by the Mapuche Indians for a variety of conditions such as sore throat, upset stomach fever, and other ailments. During the winter months, the Mapuche Indians consume dried maqui berries to boost their immune system to stay healthy.
Anthocyanins in dark-colored berries are the most powerful antioxidant compounds with the strongest benefits towards whole health, especially fortifying immune function. Anthocyanins in MaquiCare are distinctive as 80% of all anthocyanins in this ingredient are delphinidin, the most health-promoting – hard working — anthocyanidin found in dark berries. Delphinidin is reported to exert superior antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects over other related anthocyanins.
MaquiCare has an interesting way of directly promoting immune response. Ca2+ (abstract calcium) signaling regulates the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines that are critical for immune responses., Impaired Ca2+ signaling impacts immune function. One study showed that delphinidin in maqui berry is able to protect healthy Ca2+ signaling.
Other ways to keep healthy by promoting the function of your immune system include drinking at least 8, eight-ounce glasses of water per day, eating foods high in protein, fiber and good fats (eg, fish, nuts and avocados), ensuring restful sleep every night, exercising moderately and practicing thorough hand hygiene. In this new normal, wearing a mask in public is also a good idea.
Please enjoy this short video explaining all these supplements.
