As the winter season is ushered in, Virginia’s and Fairhope Health Foods have a great stock of immune-boosting and stabilizing products. The big three immune boosters are zinc, vitamin C and vitamin D.

Zinc comes in various forms and has a plethora of benefits when used daily. Like zinc, a daily intake of vitamin C can improve immune activity and as an antioxidant, vitamin C can rid the body of free radicals that attack healthy cells. Finally, vitamin D is highly versatile and touted to assist in the absorption of minerals linked to bone formation and improved immunity.

Elderberry is another powerful immune booster and virus killer. The berries must be processed into tinctures, syrups or edible forms. It has long been popular to support good health during flu season.

A hallmark of Virginia’s and Fairhope Health Foods is the knowledge of the staff on health and wellness. Among them is Betty Lou Pierce, licensed nutritionist and former owner of Naturally Yours health food store. Pierce advises that vitamin supplementation is most effective during the late morning and afternoon, mineral intake during the evening, probiotics daily and with proper water ingestion and adequate rest, the pursuit for optimal immunity is within reach.

“Also remember your chicken and bone broth for immunity,” advises Lynnora Ash, owner of Fairhope and Virginia’s Health Foods. “Broth has remarkably high immune-building properties, especially when taken right at the start of an illness. In addition, it cuts down on the severity and duration of a virus.”

Open Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Virginia’s and Fairhope Health Foods offer quality organic food via the in-store restaurant, Sunflower Café, and the store’s grocery along with a vast selection of loose herbs and vitamin and herb options.