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Vitamins & Minerals for Immune System Boost

The immune system is a combination of cells and proteins that work to protect the body [1] against foreign invaders that cause illnesses and diseases. Invaders such as viruses, bacteria, and foreign bodies, are destroyed when you have a strong immune system. It keeps a record of every germ it has ever defeated to recognize and destroy them when they re-appear.

Persons with weak immune systems are at risk of falling ill very frequently, hence it is important to do all we can to boost this network of cells and proteins that defends the body against infection. Lots of vitamins and minerals [2] from foods and supplements are the way to go for an immune system boost.

The Immune System (IS) consists [3] of the white blood cells, which are the key players to look out for bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. When they find any, they instigate an immune attack. Antibodies are also present in the IS to fight germs and detoxify the body. The IS consists of a network of proteins called the complement system that supports the antibodies to fight microbes. Inside the IS is the lymphatic system that helps to manage the fluid levels in the body, react to bacteria, and fight abnormal cells like cancer.

Other parts of the immune system include the spleen, bone marrow (containing the red blood cells), and thymus. Without a fully working IS, the body is unable to perform optimally, hence a low quality of life.

Here are eight essential vitamins and minerals for an Immune System boost:

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is another vitamin containing powerful antioxidants that help the body fight off infection and diseases. It can be found mainly in high-fat plant foods like almonds, peanut butter, sunflower, safflower, soybean, and hazelnuts. This vitamin is important for the proper functioning of the organs in the body and has been recognized for its skin-repairing properties.

Vitamin E combats the effects of free radicals produced by the metabolism of food and toxins in the environment.