Cold & Flu Supplement Protocols in Knoxville
If cold and flu season leaves you absolutely miserable every year, it might be time to take a Functional Medicine approach. At Innate Wellness, we’ve put together supplement protocols designed to support normal immune function, whether you’re preparing for cold and flu season or looking for additional nutritional support when you’re under the weather.
A Functional Medicine Approach to Cold and Flu Season
Our cold and flu protocols bring together herbs, vitamins, minerals and other supplements selected to support your body’s normal immune function. They fit into our bigger philosophy: give your body the nutritional foundation it needs to function at its best.
Your personal protocol doesn’t have to include everything listed on this page. Each option is a starting point, and we’re always happy to help you decide what may be appropriate for you.
Three Protocols for Staying Well and Getting Well
Immune Support Protocol
(Designs for Health)
Acute Viral Support Protocol (Designs for Health)
Cold and Flu Support Protocol (Fullscript)
Browse the full list and choose the options that fit your needs, or talk with us about creating a more personalized protocol.
What Goes Into an Immune-Supporting Protocol
Different nutrients and supplements play different roles in the body. Here are some of the options included in our cold and flu recommendations:
- Gut health: The gut and immune system are closely connected. Supporting a healthy gut microbiome with a prebiotic may be one part of an overall immune-support strategy.
- Vitamins and minerals: Vitamins C, D and A, along with zinc, play roles in normal immune function and maintaining healthy tissues, including mucous membranes.
- Immune-supporting herbs: Herbs such as echinacea and eleuthero are commonly used for immune support. They aren’t appropriate for everyone, however, so individual health history matters.
- Medicinal mushrooms: Certain medicinal mushrooms are used for their immune-modulating properties and may be included as part of a broader wellness protocol.
- Melatonin: Although it’s best known for its role in sleep, melatonin has other functions in the body as well. Some people experience headaches when taking it, so individual response matters.
- Elderberry: Elderberry is commonly used during cold and flu season, particularly after symptoms begin. Ask us whether and when it may be appropriate to include it in your protocol.
Important Cautions Before You Start
Not every supplement is right for everyone. If you have an autoimmune condition, talk with a qualified healthcare professional before using immune-stimulating herbs such as echinacea or eleuthero. Depending on your individual needs, other options in the protocol, including medicinal mushrooms, vitamins, minerals or probiotics, may be considered instead.
Allergies matter too. If you’re allergic to ivy or ginseng, don’t take eleuthero. If you’re allergic to ragweed or daisies, don’t take echinacea. Some people also experience headaches when taking melatonin.
Get a Protocol Built Around You
Not sure which products make sense for you? A personalized protocol can take some of the guesswork out of choosing supplements. Schedule a Functional Medicine appointment with Dr. Meghan Palmer to discuss your health history and which options may be appropriate for you.
Have questions about any of the protocols on this page? Contact us today to schedule your visit.
