Boost Your Immune System with Zinc and Vitamin C Before Your Trip
According to Dr. Steve Burgess, a medical expert at Wyoming Hospital, taking zinc and vitamin C supplements about 2 hours before boarding a plane or a long-distance bus can boost your immune system and reduce the risk of respiratory infections, a common occurrence in enclosed spaces such as aircraft or bus cabins.
“Zinc helps prevent viral replication and also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Meanwhile, vitamin C supports various immune cell functions, enabling the body to fight infections more effectively,” Dr. Burgess shares.
The recommended dosage is 15-25 mg of zinc and 500-1,000 mg of vitamin C. These can be taken in the form of combination pills, lozenges, or specialized dietary supplements. Notably, zinc lozenges also provide direct antibacterial support in the throat, the first point of entry for viruses.
Why Take Them 2 Hours in Advance?
Enclosed spaces with poor air circulation, such as airplanes, buses, or trains, provide an ideal environment for viruses and bacteria to spread. It only takes one person coughing or sneezing for bacteria to linger in the air for hours. At the same time, your immune system is already struggling to cope with stress, changing schedules, temperature variations, and unfamiliar food.
Taking zinc and vitamin C two hours in advance gives these micronutrients sufficient time to absorb into the bloodstream and reach their maximum effectiveness when you start interacting in crowded environments. This is a golden window of opportunity to activate your body’s natural defense mechanisms.
Who Will Benefit from This?
This habit is especially beneficial for:
- Those prone to motion sickness: Vitamin C helps alleviate motion sickness symptoms due to its antioxidant properties and nerve-stabilizing effects.
- Individuals with weakened immune systems: This includes children, the elderly, or those recovering from an illness.
- Frequent travelers: Business travelers, flight attendants, long-distance drivers, etc.
Ms. Thu Hang (34, Hanoi) shared, “In the past, I used to catch a cold or sore throat, especially after flying. Ever since I started taking zinc and vitamin C two hours beforehand, I’ve felt much healthier and less tired after my trips.”
Precautions
While zinc and vitamin C are beneficial, they should not be overused. Here are some important precautions to keep in mind:
- Avoid high doses continuously: Excessive zinc intake can cause nausea and diarrhea and interfere with the absorption of other minerals.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during long journeys, to reduce throat dryness and support detoxification.
- Consult a doctor if you have an underlying condition: Individuals with stomach problems, those taking medication, pregnant women, etc., should seek medical advice before use.
A Few More Small but Effective Tips
- Wear a medical mask and carry hand sanitizer: These remain the most basic and effective shields.
- Eat a light meal before your trip: A digestible meal with fruits, whole grain bread, or vegetable soup will ensure a comfortable journey.
- Get enough sleep the night before: A well-rested body can fight off illnesses better than any medicine.
A Message to You Before Your Trip…
Dear friend, sometimes, a small zinc lozenge, a glass of fresh orange juice, or a few minutes of preparation before your trip can be your strongest shield against illness. Don’t let colds, sore throats, or travel fatigue ruin your eagerly anticipated journey.
Take care of yourself a little before boarding that vehicle, flight, or train—not just to protect yourself but also to safeguard the well-being of your loved ones traveling with you.
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