The immune system works to defend your body from foreign substances and to keep you healthy. Composed of proteins, tissues, organs and a network of cells, the immune system is your body's defender against infectious organisms. Typically, the immune system defends against organisms that can cause infections such as viruses, fungi, bacteria and parasites. Some vitamins help to boost the immune system and increase its defending power. Your doctor or health care provider can recommend the correct values to help ensure your vitamins are working for you.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A plays essential roles in many body processes. It helps to support vision, development, growth, reproduction, immune functioning and the maintenance of healthy skin, mucous membranes and hair. Vitamin A also helps to regulate the immune system and assists cells in defending the body from harmful substances. The National Institutes of Health also notes that vitamin A influences cell differentiation, in which cells become part of the brain and various other parts of the body. You can find vitamin A in liver, fortified milk and colorful fruits and vegetables, such as carrots, sweet potatoes and cantaloupes.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C enhances immune system functioning and contributes to your overall health. Found in such foods as guava, strawberries, oranges, broccoli, tomatoes and spinach, vitamin C is an important antioxidant for your body. Vitamin C contributes to your immune system functioning by improving certain aspects of it, such as white blood cells and interferon, which help to defend your body and prevent illness. The February 2009 issue of Medizinische Monatsschrift Fur Pharmazeuten reports that deficiencies in vitamin C can reduce resistance against pathogens, while higher amounts of vitamin C can enhance several aspects of the immune system. Vitamin C also has other roles in your body, including helping wounds heal, protecting cells from free radical damage and improving iron absorption.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E prevents free radical damage in your body, which can harm cells, tissues and organs. This powerful antioxidant also assists in the formation of red blood cells, prevents overreaction of oxygen molecules and supports healthy skin and immune system functioning. The Linus Pauling Institute notes that vitamin E enhances specific aspects of the immune response that appear to decline as people age. You can find vitamin E in such foods as nuts and seeds, whole grains, egg yolks, wheat germ and leafy green vegetables.
