24/04/2025
Cold and Flu Season: The Nutrients We Need to Keep Our Immune System Strong
By Nurse Jordana, Sunshine Coast
As a registered nurse and founder of Medinfusions here on the Sunshine Coast, I see firsthand how quickly cold and flu season can take its toll. Whether you’re working long hours, managing a busy schedule, or simply trying to stay well through the cooler months, immune support is more than just a nice-to-have—it’s essential.
Our immune systems are incredible, but they need the right fuel to function properly, especially when viruses are circulating at higher rates. While sleep, exercise and stress management are all important, nutrition is one of the most effective (and natural) ways to give your immune defences a boost.
In this post, I’ll share the top nutrients that help keep your immune system strong through cold and flu season—and how we can support that here on the Sunshine Coast, especially when food and lifestyle alone aren’t enough.
Why Immune Health Matters in Flu Season
As temperatures cool down and we spend more time indoors, viruses like influenza and other respiratory infections become more common. If your immune system isn’t in top shape, it’s much easier to fall ill—and harder to bounce back.
Strengthening your immune system doesn’t just help you avoid getting sick; it can also help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms if you do catch something. That’s why investing in immune health now can help you stay productive, energised, and well in the months ahead.
Top Nutrients That Support Your Immune System
1. Vitamin C – Your First Line of Defence
Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that supports white blood cell function, helps repair tissues, and reduces inflammation. It’s also one of the best-known nutrients for shortening the duration of cold symptoms.
Where to get it: Citrus fruits, capsicum, strawberries, and leafy greens. Supplementing or including it in an IV infusion can quickly top up your levels during high-demand times.
2. Zinc – The Immune System’s Silent Hero
Zinc supports immune cell development and helps reduce symptom severity when you’re unwell. Many people don’t get enough zinc through diet alone, especially during periods of stress or illness.
Sources: Pumpkin seeds, lentils, shellfish, and beef. It’s also a common and valuable addition to immune-focused IV infusions.
3. Vitamin D – The Sunshine Nutrient
Even on the Sunshine Coast, vitamin D deficiency is surprisingly common—especially in winter or for those who work indoors. It plays a critical role in regulating immune function and lowering inflammation.
Where to get it: Safe sun exposure, eggs, mushrooms, and fortified non-dairy milks. Regular blood tests can confirm if supplementation is needed.
4. B Vitamins – For Energy and Immunity
B6, B9 (folate), and B12 help produce and activate immune cells, support energy metabolism, and play a role in the body’s stress response.
Sources: Eggs, leafy greens, legumes, and lean meats. B vitamins are commonly included in IV blends to help with both immune and adrenal support.
5. Probiotics – Gut Health and Immune Function
A healthy gut is key to a healthy immune system, with nearly 70% of immune tissue residing in the gut. Probiotics help regulate immune responses and reduce inflammation.
Best sources: Fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, miso, and dairy-free yoghurt. If you’ve had antibiotics recently, a good probiotic can help restore your gut balance.
IV Therapy for Immune Support
Getting all of these nutrients through food can be challenging—especially during times of high stress or illness. That’s where IV nutrient therapy can make a big difference.
At Medinfusions, we offer customised immune support infusions delivered by registered nurses across the Sunshine Coast. Each treatment is developed under the guidance of Dr Toni and includes a powerful blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants delivered directly into the bloodstream for rapid absorption.
Infusions typically take around 45 minutes and can be tailored to suit your specific health needs—whether you’re recovering from illness, preparing for travel, or simply wanting to prevent burnout during a busy season.
A Holistic, Professional Approach to Wellness
Whether you’re working long hours, travelling frequently, or simply looking to stay well and energised during cold and flu season, I’m here to help. With a professional and personalised approach to IV therapy, Medinfusions brings high-quality wellness care right to your door—wherever you are on the Sunshine Coast.
If you’d like to learn more about our immune-boosting treatments or book your first infusion, I’d love to chat. Supporting your health is what I do best.
Stay well this season,
Nurse Jordana
Founder, Medinfusions
