Vitamins You Should Be Taking Before You Get The COVID-19 Vaccine

If you have an appointment set up in the next few weeks to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, you may be wondering if there is anything you can do ahead of time to optimize the vaccine's effectiveness. For instance, if you take vitamins, will that make any difference?

According to Best Life, certain vitamins could potentially help make the vaccine more effective. The reason is that when you strengthen your immune system, your body is more optimized to be responsive to the vaccine. "Supplemental nutrition is the most direct way to impact your immune health and function in the near term," says Andrew Myers, M.D., a naturopathic physician.

Studies have also shown that being deficient in Vitamin K2 and Vitamin D3 are linked to contracting COVID-19, so it may be worth considering taking the recommended doses of these supplements. "If you have low vitamin D or low vitamin K, you're more likely to end up in the intensive care unit or dead," says Grace McComsey, M.D., Vice President of Research and Associate Chief Science Officer at University Hospitals. Dr. McComsey asserts that taking zinc may also be beneficial (via WKYC).

But you may want to get a second opinion.

Blanka Kaplan, M.D., who specializes in adult and pediatric allergy and immunology at Northwell Health has doubts. "There is no scientific data that shows that taking any vitamins, minerals, or probiotics prior to the vaccination will prevent an allergic reaction or will improve the immune response to the vaccine," she says (via WebMD). Dr. Kaplan favors the idea that you can best serve your immune system by getting enough sleep, keeping yourself hydrated, keeping up with physical activity, and eating healthy foods. She also suggests giving yourself space to rest the day after you receive the vaccine, especially after your second dose, as it's possible you may have a stronger reaction.

And if you plan on celebrating with a bottle of bubbly after getting your shot — better make that a bottle of club soda instead of champagne. Dr. Kaplan advises against drinking alcohol 24 hours before and after you receive your dose. "We do not yet know enough about the influence of alcohol on allergic reactions to the COVID-19 vaccines," she says.

As far as vitamins go, sticking with your normal routine before and after getting your vaccine certainly can't hurt. Just be sure you're consulting with a medical professional about any vitamins or supplements you're taking.