7 clinician-selected supplements to keep on hand before you test positive


A precursor to glutathione, the body's primary antioxidant. NAC has a high affinity for lung tissue, where it acts as both a mucolytic and an antioxidant — helping thin mucus and buffer the oxidative stress that accompanies an acute respiratory infection.

A one-capsule foundation covering the vitamins and minerals immune function depends on — vitamin D, zinc, selenium, and the B vitamins — in bioavailable forms, including Metafolin L-5-MTHF for those with an MTHFR mutation.

Beyond its role in sleep, melatonin is an antioxidant and immune modulator. Sleep is one of the strongest levers on recovery during acute infection, and protecting it through the illness matters for how well you come out the other side.

A fibrinolytic enzyme derived from fermented soybeans that supports healthy circulation and balanced coagulation. Included because acute COVID drives a pro-clotting state, and microclotting is one of the mechanisms implicated in Long COVID.

Curcumin promotes a healthy inflammatory response. The Phytosome delivery system binds curcumin to phospholipids, which substantially improves absorption over standard turmeric extracts.

An antioxidant active in both water- and fat-soluble tissue, so it reaches essentially every cell. ALA also helps regenerate other antioxidants — including glutathione — extending the antioxidant capacity NAC helps build.

A flavonoid with antioxidant and immune-supporting properties, frequently paired with zinc in acute viral protocols. The Phytosome form addresses quercetin's notoriously poor absorption in its standard form.
These are the doses RTHM recommends for this protocol, matched to the strengths of the products above — they may differ from the directions printed on the bottle. Always talk with your clinician before starting any new supplement, as not all of them are suitable for everyone.
For more information on how to reduce your risk of Long COVID, read our blog: You’ve got COVID: minimize your symptoms and reduce your Long COVID risk.