What Vitamins Should You Take for Immune Support?
Vitamins are an essential part of your dietary intake and are important in supporting your immune system. Eating nutrient-rich foods can help your immune system fight off illness. And if you are worried about what foods to buy, then pack your shopping cart with fruits and vegetables from every color of the rainbow. The more natural colors on your plate, the more immune-supporting vitamins there will be.
However, if you struggle to get all the vitamins you need from your diet, you might need a little help. In this case, it's good to know what vitamins to look out for when shopping for an immune support supplement.
What are the best vitamins for immune support?
It's always best to try and get your vitamins from your diet. Your body absorbs them better when they come naturally from food. But to fill in the gap, supplements can help. If you are looking for a supplement specifically to support your immune system, then look for these three essential vitamins:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin E
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is probably the most well-known immune-supporting vitamin. It is an essential micronutrient, but your body doesn't produce or store it. It plays several vital roles in the body, including:
- It encourages the production of lymphocytes and phagocytes (white blood cells), which help protect the body against infection.
- It acts as an antioxidant, supporting the skin and potentially protecting against environmental oxidative stress.
- Promoting healing - shortening wound healing time.
You can find Vitamin C in foods such as:
- Citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits
- Berries like strawberries and blackberries
- Green vegetables like spinach, kale, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli
- Bell peppers and chili peppers
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is a crucial nutrient in keeping your immune system healthy. It produces cells that regulate immune responses, such as white blood cells and T cells. However, Vitamin B6 deficiency is quite common, particularly among the elderly and women of childbearing age.
Good food sources of Vitamin B6 are:
- Poultry
- Fish (such as salmon and tuna)
- Green vegetables
- Bananas
- Chickpeas
- Fortified cereals
Vitamin E
You might think of your skin health when you think of Vitamin E, but it is also well known for its immune support. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant like Vitamin C. Antioxidants are molecules that fight free radicals in your body. If too many free radicals build up in your body, they can cause harm and illness.
You can find Vitamin E in foods such as:
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Plant-based oils
- Green leafy vegetables
- Avocado
Supporting your immune system
A colorful, varied diet is the best way to get your vitamin intake. But, if you don't feel you're getting enough vitamins from your diet, a supplement can help. When choosing a supplement, always ensure it contains scientifically studied ingredients. Quantum Health has a thoroughly researched range of immune system support supplements.
