When it comes to immune health, choosing the right supplements can make all the difference. Conventional brands like Olly, Zicam, and Emergen-C might offer a quick immune boost, but their ingredient lists reveal a range of synthetic additives and fillers that can trigger inflammation and disrupt gut health—two key factors in immune function. That’s why switching to non-toxic alternatives, such as The Wellness Way’s lineup of Reishi, Elderberry, Zinc, Immune Glandular, Echinacea, and Vitamin D3/K2 supplements, offers a safer, more holistic approach.

Olly, Zicam, and Emergen-C are household names that claim to offer immune support. However, these brands often contain ingredients that, when consumed regularly, may lead to a buildup of toxins and inflammation. Here’s a breakdown of some of the problematic ingredients in these popular immune supplements and how they may be working against you.

1. Artificial Dyes: Many immune support products contain artificial colors, such as Red 40 and Yellow 5, which are known to disrupt the body’s natural processes. Studies suggest these dyes can increase hyperactivity, disrupt hormones, and trigger allergic reactions.

2. High Sugar Content: Brands like Emergen-C rely on high levels of sugar or artificial sweeteners to enhance flavor. Sugar has been shown to suppress immune cells, which can reduce your body’s ability to fight off infections. Over time, high sugar consumption can also lead to inflammation and disrupt gut health, further weakening immune resilience.

3. Additives and Preservatives: Many of these brands contain preservatives like sodium benzoate and synthetic ingredients that extend shelf life but can build up in the body, impacting liver function and increasing inflammation.

4. Synthetic Vitamins: Unlike natural, food-based vitamins, synthetic versions—often found in conventional brands—are harder for the body to absorb and may disrupt natural immune processes rather than support them.

Why These Ingredients Matter: These ingredients can hinder the immune response by promoting inflammation, which not only weakens the body’s defense system but can also exacerbate symptoms of immune-related conditions.

Switching to The Wellness Way immune support offers a safer, cleaner approach to immune health. Unlike conventional brands, our immune support products use natural, food and plantbased ingredients free from harmful additives and fillers. This clean, holistic approach promotes immune resilience while protecting the body from inflammatory triggers.

1. Reishi Mushroom: Known for its immune-boosting properties, Reishi mushroom is an adaptogen that helps the body manage stress, one of the leading causes of a weakened immune system.

2. Elderberry: A powerful antioxidant, elderberry is widely studied for its ability to enhance immune function and reduce inflammation. It’s also rich in vitamin C, making it an excellent natural alternative to synthetic options.

3. Wellness Zinc: Zinc is essential for immune function, but our Wellness Zinc uses bioavailable, naturally-sourced zinc from oysters.

4. Immune Glandular: This unique supplement combines glandular extracts, such as spleen and thymus, that support the immune system on a cellular level, enhancing overall health.

5. Echinacea: Known for its immune-boosting properties, echinacea helps reduce the duration and severity of colds and is a safer, plant-based alternative to synthetic immune boosters.

6. Vitamin D3 w/ K2: Vitamin D3 and K2 work together to support immune health, while also benefiting bone and cardiovascular health.

When it comes to immune support, there’s more to consider than just the claims on the label. Conventional brands may offer a quick fix, but their artificial dyes, synthetic vitamins, and high sugar content can do more harm than good in the long term. Choosing alternatives provides a safe swap that supports your body’s immune response without the unwanted ingredients that can trigger inflammation and disrupt gut health.