DIY Immunity Shots: Should You Bother with Them?
Every once in a while, a popular TikTok trend pops up and promises to be the wellness solution of the moment. One of the most recent trends: DIY immunity shots. Also known as wellness shots. Question is, do these immunity shots work?
Nobody wants to deal with constant colds or feeling down because they are ill. It is one of the worst feelings to experience. You end up really appreciating when you were healthy. That is why your immunity is so important.
DIY immunity shots are homemade drinks that purport to boost immunity and improve overall wellness. While immunity shots are not supported by any peer-reviewed double-blind studies, plenty of anecdotal research shows that they do, in fact, work. Besides, a plethora of research shows that most of the ingredients used in immunity shots support immune function.
Why Should You Try to Boost Your Immunity?
As you go about your day, your body is exposed to microbes, including disease-causing microorganisms. Your immune system is always actively working to fight against these disease-causing antigens. In fact, most of the time, you won’t even notice you have been exposed to anything harmful since your immune system is persistently at work. Basically, your immune system is your body’s natural defense against illnesses.
However, when your immune system is weak and unable to fight off antigens, you fall sick.
Considering the enormous role of your immune system, it is no wonder we are all looking for ways to boost our immunity.
Here are a few reasons to boost your immunity:
What are Immunity Shots?
Immunity shots or wellness shots are small one or two ounce drinks that are touted to boost immunity. Typically, these shots include a mix of fruit and vegetable juices, herbs and spices, and apple cider vinegar. Most of the ingredients in these immunity shots have been used in traditional medicine for ages. DIY immunity shots are homemade versions of these drinks.
Why should you even bother with them?
There are no scientific studies on the effectiveness of DIY immunity or wellness shots. In fact, current research shows that nothing you can eat or drink will kick your immunity into higher gear.
However, some nutrients do have a direct impact on the growth and function of immune cells. And this is the reason you should bother with these DIY immune shots.
Indeed, some popular ingredients in these immunity shots, such as turmeric, ginger, and Vitamin C, have been extensively studied and are directly correlated with improved immune functioning, reduced inflammation, and better gut health.
And why should you make them instead of buying them?
Buying these wellness shots can get pretty pricey. Prices range from $3 to $12 a pop. It is much cheaper to make your wellness shots. You only need a good juicer and fresh ingredients from your local grocery store or farmers’ market.
Another reason to make instead of buy is the ability to customize. Making these shots yourself allows you to control the ingredients you use. Most importantly, you can control the amount based on your needs. Besides, making it home ensures it is free from preservatives and other additives that will not benefit you.
Key Ingredients in Homemade Immunity Shots
- Ginger– Ginger is a trendy ingredient in wellness shots. And for good reason. Research shows ginger has strong anti-inflammatory properties. Similarly, ginger reduces nausea and can aid in digestion.
- Turmeric—Another popular ingredient is turmeric. Similar to ginger, studies assert that ginger reduces inflammation. Turmeric contains a component called curcumin, which is both an antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory. Additionally, turmeric lowers cortisol levels, which reduces stress.
- Lemon– Contains Vitamin C, which has been shown to boost immunity. One recent study showed that Vitamin C could shorten and lessen the severity of a cold. Besides, lemons are also high in antioxidants, which are necessary for fighting off free radicals.
- Oranges- Oranges also contain Vitamin C.
- Cayenne pepper—Cayenne paper not only influences the taste of your wellness shot but also aids digestion and boosts metabolism.
- Honey—Honey is a good addition if you have a sweet tooth. Its antibacterial properties make it very useful to soothe a sore throat during cold and flu season. Make sure to use raw, organic honey to avoid any unnecessary additives and preservatives.
RELATED ARTICLE: GARLIC AND HONEY REMEDY FOR COLD AND FLU SEASON
Simple Immunity Shots Recipe
This DIY immunity shot is an excellent way to improve your wellness routine. All you need is a good juicer. If you don’t have a juicer, you can use a blender.
Ingredients:
¼ cup fresh ginger
½ inch fresh turmeric or 1/2 tsp turmeric
3 Lemons
2 Oranges
A pinch of cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon honey (Raw honey) optional
Instructions:
Add all ingredients to a juicer, juice, and enjoy.
You can store the remaining juice in a glass jar in the refrigerator.
Try different combinations of these ingredients.
Top 3 Benefits of DIY Immunity Shots
Boost energy– Depending on the ingredients, these DIY immunity shots can boost your energy. Indeed, an ingredient like turmeric, which reduces cortisol levels and, consequently, stress, can improve your energy.
Fight cold– Ingredients like Vitamin C and Zinc have been shown to lessen and shorten colds.
Natural ingredients – These DIY immunity shots contain natural ingredients, which means you get nutrients from unprocessed options with no additives. You know precisely what is in your DIY shot.
When and How Often Should You Take Your Homemade Immunity Shots?
When and how often you take these DIY immunity shots depends entirely on you. However, for best results, taking them daily might be best, especially during cold and flu season. Research on the effectiveness of Vitamin C in shortening the duration of colds indicates it is only effective when taken before the onset of a cold.
Taking them daily will ensure a consistent supply of these good ingredients. Do not overdo these DIY immunity shots with the hope that drinking more will magically improve your immunity. It won’t.
To sum Up
DIY immunity shots are becoming increasingly popular as we become more conscious of health and wellness. While no peer-reviewed double-blind studies support these shots, many studies on individual ingredients show that they work. However, do not try to overdo these immunity shots to kick your immunity system into higher gear. It won’t work.
