According to a new survey 43% of Americans added vitamins and/or other immunity-supporting supplements to their routine during the past year of the COVID pandemic. The survey was conducted by polling company YouGov on behalf of oral health product company TheraBreath. The survey included 2,474 Americans and was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of the population at large. Supplement use high before the pandemicThe 43% number includes Americans who were already supplementing, but added new products to specifically address building the immune system. Prior to the pandemic, a survey conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of the American Osteopathic Association found that 86% of Americans were already taking nutritional supplements. The new YouGov survey also found that a majority of Americans were following the government recommendations for other preventative measures: 74% were using hand sanitizer and/or washing hands; 82% reported wearing face masks; and 77% reported social distancing on a regular basis. Nutrient supplementing is unique in that it is not found on any of the official lists of "things you can do to stop the spread of COVID." Though numerous studies have found that COVID deaths are higher in populations with insufficient levels of Vitamin D, probiotics and zinc---to name a few---the U.S. government has so far failed to officially recognize addressing nutrient deficiencies as part of the COVID battle. Consumers independently choosing supplements Notwithstanding the government position, the survey appears to show that the U.S. population does believe that supplements can help. For example, the survey found that 65% of Americans believe Vitamin C has immunity supporting benefits. Other popular nutrients that ranked high among Americans for their immune building properties included zinc at 41%; elderberry at 26%; and copper at 11%. "With spring upon us and restrictions loosening, the world is beginning to reopen. This research indicates many Americans are beginning to take a 360° approach to supporting their immunity during this critical time," said TheraBreath Founder and Chief Researcher Dr. Harold Katz. "While they have been educated on the importance of social distancing, wearing masks and using hand sanitizer, they are now beginning to understand the significant impact vitamins and immunity-supporting supplements can have on their family's overall wellness." Immune nutrients up, weight loss nutrients down While sales of immune building supplements have grown during the pandemic, sales of weight loss nutrients have declined substantially. Ironically, though, being overweight is another "immune system" factor to consider during the pandemic.Research published in the British Medical Journal has now linked excess weight to higher COVID risk. This means weight loss supplements will likely gain their former popularity as consumers begin to realize keeping their weight in check is also an important step to maintaining their immune system. Optimal Health Systems offers a number of products to help boost you immune system naturally. Learn more by following links below: • Optimal Defense• Immune Support Bundle• Exposure Protection Pak• FloraBlitz 100• Natural Z Pak - - - Source: APNews.com, StreetInsider.com.
