Instant C Effervescent

The World Health Organization has declared COVID-19 a global pandemic. While this is unprecedented in modern times and sounds really scary, medical experts around the world are working to slow the spread while a vaccine is created. To help protect ourselves and our loved ones, let's remember to follow their recommendations and make small changes to our daily routines and interactions, including: Washing your hands frequently with soap and water Practicing social distancing (6 feet distance between yourself and others) Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or bent elbow when you cough or sneeze Because of the nature of this virus, those who are most at risk are the elderly and those with compromised or weakened immune systems. For the greater good, it is important for all of us to be vigilant about both contracting the virus and spreading it. For more information on the latest from the WHO, visit their website. What can I do to protect myself? At Organika, our goal is and has always been to help people live their healthy best. While scientists are working tirelessly to mitigate the spread and eradicate the virus, we don’t know how long that will take. During these uncertain times, your best shot at protecting yourself and your loved ones is to follow the WHO's recommendations listed above. In addition, now more than ever, we should be taking the steps to living a healthy life and supporting our immune system, our bodies' line of defense, as best as we can. Here are some of our products that can help keep your immunity going strong. Quercetin Quercetin is a type of flavonoid. Flavonoids have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Quercetin in particular, once absorbed, stays in circulation a long time – which allows it to act as protective for a longer period of time during the day [1]. Some other properties that make Quercetin a great immune support are: It is anti-inflammatory: Quercetin can modulate the expression of pro-inflammatory factors, one major one being TNF-alpha. By doing this, it causes an anti-inflammatory effect by suppressing inflammatory markers [2]. It's shown promise as an antiviral: Quercetin stays in circulation for an extended time while providing protection. Past research has shown quercetin to inhibit entry of a virus into human cells, including such viruses as Influenza A [3]. Mushrooms You know we love a good 'shroom. While we can go on and on about them for days, let's keep it to the top 2! Shiitake: Shiitake mushrooms have been proven to build blood cells [4]. Production of white blood cells in particular (aka. what is in your immune system!) is aided by shiitakes. Cordyceps: Like shiitake, these are great for building immune cells in the human body [4]. Cordyceps have antiviral, anti-inflammatory, AND antioxidant properties. They can also help combat fatigue. Summing it up, if your immune system is strong, you are more likely to be able to fight off viruses! Bee Propolis When we breathe in pathogens (like bacteria or viruses), they come into contact with our tonsils. Our tonsils, along with enzymes in our oral mucosa, will fight off pathogens and protect the body from them. A spray like Bee Propolis is the perfect companion on a flight! Use it to help fight bad bacteria and viruses, especially when stuck on a plane breathing in recycled air. Bee Propolis is antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial. Used in a tincture or a spray, it will help support the body during times of sickness threats [5]. Thanks, bees! NAC NAC is a precursor for glutathione, one of the most potent antioxidants in the human body, which helps support any stress the body is going under. It has been shown to improve signs of upper respiratory distress and lung functioning. If you've been following the news, you'll remember respiratory distress is one of the main concerns related to COVID-19. Bone Broth A good diet is probably the number one defense against anything viral. Good diet, exercise and sleep is key. Bone Broth provides our bodies with the vitamins and minerals we need to keep everything working well. So while you're practicing social distancing: Netflix and sip Bone Broth – doctor’s orders! Garlic Garlic is a potent source of allicin, known for its benefits to heart health and traditionally reducing infections of the respiratory tract. It’s a commonly used antiviral and antioxidant. Things might feel a little bit out of our control, but what we can stay on top of is our own actions and doing our best to keep our immune systems in tip-top shape. This can be a nerve-wracking time. It is more important than ever to take care of yourself and those around you. Stay well! Resources Morand C, Crespy V, Manach C, Besson C, Demigne C, Remesy C. Plasma metabolites of quercetin and their antioxidant properties. American Journal of Physiology-Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology. 1998 Jul 1;275(1):R212-9. Nair MP, Mahajan S, Reynolds JL, Aalinkeel R, Nair H, Schwartz SA, Kandaswami C. The flavonoid quercetin inhibits proinflammatory cytokine (tumor necrosis factor alpha) gene expression in normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells via modulation of the NF-κβ system. Clin. Vaccine Immunol.. 2006 Mar 1;13(3):319-28. Wu W, Li R, Li X, He J, Jiang S, Liu S, Yang J. Quercetin as an antiviral agent inhibits influenza A virus (IAV) entry. Viruses. 2016 Jan;8(1):6. Guggenheim AG, Wright KM, Zwickey HL. Immune modulation from five major mushrooms: application to integrative oncology. Integrative Medicine: A Clinician's Journal. 2014 Feb;13(1):32. Lotfy M. Biological activity of bee propolis in health and disease. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev. 2006;7(1):22-31.

If there's one lesson to be learned from the past year, let it be this: health is a necessity, not a luxury. We want you to live your healthy best - and to support you in getting there. Whether you're new to the wellness world, or a wellness expert looking for new ways to stay healthy, let's dive right in and get to know our top natural immunity supplements and superfoods to help keep your immune system thriving! 1. Bee Propolis for Immunity How does bee propolis support immunity? Bee Propolis is a potent antimicrobial agent that bees use to protect their hives. We harnessed its power to create an immunity supporter that's second to none at fighting infections and inflammation, like sore throats. Locally sourced in the Okanagan Valley, BC, our liquid bee propolis has a unique antioxidant profile, for well-rounded protection. What are the benefits of bee propolis? Fights sore throat, canker sores and oral inflammations. Diverse source of antioxidants for potent immunity support. Easy to take liquid formula - especially for children and the elderly! Shop Bee Propolis 2. Reishi for Immunity How does reishi support immunity? The King of Mushrooms to the rescue! Reishi mushrooms have been traditionally used for immunity and stress support for at least four thousand years. As an adaptogen, reishi helps modulate and support the immune system, especially during times of increased stress. What are the benefits of reishi? Modulates and supports the immune system. Excellent source of antioxidants, to support immune function. Adaptogen, helping prevent mental and physical fatigue related to stress. Shop Reishi 3. Vitamin C for Immunity How does vitamin C support immunity? Well known for its role in helping your immune system combat attacks from colds and flus, vitamin C is also an important antioxidant for our body. Each Instant C Effervescent tablet provides 1,000 mg of vitamin C and dissolves quickly in water to make a refreshing beverage in three natural flavours: Orange, Raspberry or Peach Mango. What are the benefits of Instant C Effervescent? Helps immune system combat attacks from colds and flus. An antioxidant for protecting the body from oxidative damage. Important for collagen, connective tissue and cartilage formation. Check out our newest Immunity Instant C, D, Zinc Immunity in Peach and Watermelon. Shop Instant C 4. Zinc for Immunity How does zinc support immunity? Zinc is an essential trace mineral with many important roles in the body, such as ensuring normal functioning of the immune cells. Organika’s Chelated Zinc offers a potent yet well-tolerated dose of this vital mineral to help the body fend off infection without stomach discomfort. What are the benefits of zinc? Supports immune function. Helps maintain healthy skin. Helps the body to metabolize carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Chelated formula for better absorption. Shop Chelated Zinc 5. Probiotics for Immunity How do probiotics support immunity? Did you know almost 70% of our entire immune system resides in the gut? Help the integrity of your gut health so your immune system can flourish with Organika’s Probiotic + Prebiotic Powder, a blend of four clinically proven probiotic strains and Actilight, a prebiotic fiber extracted from beetroot. What are the benefits of Probiotic + Prebiotic powder? Help support intestinal health and promote a balanced gut flora. Improve digestive discomfort due to mild functional bowel disorders. Provides 250 million CFUs + 2.5 grams prebiotic fibre per sachet. Shelf stable - no refrigeration required! Shop Probiotic + Prebiotic Powder 6. Quercetin for Immunity How does quercetin support immunity? Quercetin, a bioflavonoid widely found in plant foods, has been studied particularly for its antiviral properties. Bromelain, when in combination with quercetin, helps to improve its absorption. What are the benefits of Quercetin with Bromelain? Studied for its antiviral, antioxidant, antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties. Includes the naturally occurring enzyme bromelain, which helps to decrease inflammation. Shop Quercetin with Bromelain 7. Spirulina for Immunity How does spirulina support immunity? Spirulina is an edible single-celled organism that contains all essential amino acids. It provides an excellent source of antioxidants and iron, helping support the immune system with much-needed nutrients for its healthy function. What are the benefits of spirulina? High in antioxidants, including beta-carotene. Vegan-friendly source of protein and iron. Shop Spirulina 8. Bone Broth for Immunity How does bone broth support immunity? Bone broth is a highly nutritious type of stock made by simmering animal bones and connective tissues. Add Organika's broth powders to your kitchen arsenal and support your immunity with a high protein, gut-healing, low sodium alternative to conventional bouillon. What are the benefits of bone broth? Heal and strengthen the gut (where roughly 70% of one’s immune tissue is found). Full of easy-to-digest nutrients, required to strengthen the immune system. Free from added hormones, antibiotics, heavy metals and pesticides. Shop Bone Broths 9. Black Cumin Seed Oil for Immunity How does black cumin seed oil support immunity? Traditional oils for the win! The medicinal benefits of black cumin seed are prized in Middle Eastern and African communities, where it has been used as a remedy for respiratory ailments for centuries. What are the benefits of black cumin seed oil? Traditionally used to treat cough, bronchitis, fever, asthma and influenza. High in thymoquinone, a volatile oil with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. A source of linoleic acid, studied for its balancing effects on the inflammatory response. Shop Black Cumin Seed Oil 10. Colostrum for Immunity How does colostrum support immunity? Build your immunity! Colostrum is a substance derived from cow’s milk. Chock-full of nutrients necessary for growth and development, colostrum has immunomodulating effects to support your immune function, particularly of the upper respiratory tract. What are the benefits of colostrum? Helps to support immune function within the throat and nasal passage. Sourced from free range, grass fed, added hormone-free grade A cows from the USA. Shop Colostrum 11. Vitamin D for Immunity How does Vitamin D support immunity? Known as the “sunshine vitamin,” vitamin D plays many important roles in the body and immune health is one of them! It helps to elevate the work that your immune cells do to fight off viruses and bacteria; so particularly important to defend your health. What are the benefits of Vitamin D? Helps the immune system fight off bacteria and viruses Helps in the development and maintenance of bones and teeth Shop Vitamin D 12. Electrolytes for Immunity How do electrolytes support immunity? Hydration is important for immunity! Staying hydrated involves having a balance of electrolytes (specific essential minerals). A deficiency in these nutrients compromises your immune health (amongst other things). These nutrients include sodium, magnesium, and potassium. What are the benefits of electrolytes? Instant hydration to support during exercise, heat, travel or illness Play a role in various reactions throughout the body and needed for optimal health Shop Electrolytes

How both essential functions go hand in hand Staying well hydrated is a key factor in maintaining a healthy immune system. Your immune system depends on specific nutrients being transported in your blood stream, an important part of the body that is made up of 90% water. Hydration also helps with sending signals and biochemical reactions to and from your immune system. Reminder: Hydration = water + electrolytes (specific salts involved in the reactions we just talked about). Electrolytes and immunity Ever notice when you are sick, people may recommend electrolytes in your water? That’s because a deficiency in these nutrients compromises your immune health (amongst other things). It will help if you think about your immune system as a fighter jet, eliminating any invaders or intruders (the invaders being threats such as viruses, germs, and unwanted pathogens). Your immune system can fight off enemies from invading your body by using T-cells and antibodies as defence (its weapons if you will). To run properly, you need to maintain your fighter jet and fuel it to ensure it doesn’t run out of gas at a critical moment. Just the same, your immune system requires specific nutrients to run properly. These nutrients include electrolytes; specifically, sodium, magnesium, and potassium. Note: electrolytes have many purposes in the body, but for the purpose of this article, we are focusing on immunity. Sodium It’s been studied that sodium has been linked to having an anti-microbial effect and can fight infections. While you don’t want to consume a diet high in sodium which can have auto-immune and blood pressure effects, there is a required amount your body needs daily. In fact, there needs to be a balance of sodium and water in your body. Adding sodium into your water thorough a replenishing electrolyte beverage daily should be enough to meet your sodium needs. Potassium Potassium balances out the sodium and together they regulate immunity response. Specifically, potassium works in the membrane of the cells to turn it on and transmit signals between cells (think of it as communication) and direct activity of the immune system. Magnesium Magnesium does so much for your body in general, but for the immune system it’s essential to keep it strong. Your body needs magnesium to make its T-cells which fight viruses and kill them. Studies have shown that decreased magnesium levels are linked with the decline of these important “killer” T-cells and other cells crucial in the immune system. If you really want to boost immunity... You want to stay efficiently hydrated always and get water plus your key electrolytes daily. Doing so will ensure your immune system is ready to go when you need it. In addition to immunity, you may know there are other supplements that are catered to support cold and flu symptoms or prevent them all together. Get maximum hydration AND immunity support in ONE SHOT Electrolytes Defence™ with Elderberry & Echinacea contains essential nutrients that keep you optimally hydrated and provide powerful immunity support – all with 0 g of sugar! Accelerate your hydration, fight off infections and help with cold and flu symptom relief with this all-in-one immunity blend containing electrolytes (sodium, potassium, and magnesium), elderberry, echinacea and zinc. Elderberry is high in antioxidants and has antiviral benefits. Researchers reported after a 2011 study, that elderberry prevented the growth of certain types of strep bacteria and influenza viruses. Echinacea is loaded with plant compounds functioning as antioxidants. Numerous studies have found that echinacea may help your immune system combat infections and viruses. Zinc supports the growth and normal function of immune cells, helping to defend against infection. This article has been fact-checked