Everyone wants to be free from any illness. Therefore, the only way to do it is to boost the immune system. It is our only guard against harmful substances that can make us sick. Unfortunately, not all can eat fresh fruits, vegetables, and other foods rich in nutrients. Diet plays an important part in a healthy body. Also, it is good to eat a balanced diet. In case you lack some nutrients, it is good to know that there are vitamins for the immune system.
Moreover, these vitamins can help the body become stronger to fight and recover from diseases. Being healthy through proper diet and taking vitamins is like preparing for battle. It is to prepare the body to fight illnesses. Experts still recommend getting nutrients from foods than from a pill. The following are the most important vitamins you’re body needs and where you can get them from your diet.
1. Vitamin C
One of the vitamins for the immune system is C, as it can stop the infection. Also, it makes recovery from sickness shorter. The most common food sources are citrus fruits, but there are other sources. You may also eat other foods like:
- Kale
- Brussels sprouts
- Spinach
- Papaya
- Strawberries
- Bell peppers
The truth is that vitamin C is widely available in many foods. Therefore, people might not need to take supplements. However, some doctors may suggest taking it. It is good for people who have a weak immune system.
2. Vitamin E
Moreover, the E is similar to C, which is an important antioxidant for the body. It can fight the infection that can lead to serious illness. Hence, it is an important vitamin that is responsible for almost 200 functions in the body. Therefore, it can strengthen the immune system and stay away from illness. Foods rich in vitamin e are those high in healthy fats.
- Peanuts
- Almonds
- Sunflower oil
- Soybean oil
- Hazelnuts
3. Vitamin A
This vitamin is the best fighter of infection. However, it comes in two different types. The first one is from an animal like fish, meat, and dairy products. The second one comes from plants or vegetables. Hence, when it comes to fishes, tuna is the best choice. Also, the more colorful it is, the more it can strengthen the immune system. If you want to get it from the plant, then you can choose from:
- Sweet potatoes
- Cantaloupe
- Carrots
- Dark green vegetables
- Pumpkin
- Butternut squash
4. Vitamin D
It is popular as sunshine vitamins because the best source is the sun. It is the best immune-boosting to improve the immune system. However, it is not available in different types of foods. One can choose to eat:
- Mackerel
- Tuna
- Salmon
- Tuna
- Milk products and others fortified with Vitamin D
Moreover, it is best to get vitamins from food, but not with vitamin D. Therefore, talk to your doctor if you want to take some supplements.
5. Folic Acid
This nutrient is available from beans, lentils, and green leafy vegetables. Another tasty option is eating an avocado. However, it is also available in fortified food products.
6. Iron
This nutrient is important to carry oxygen in different parts of the body. The best type is from animals as the body easily absorbs it. The following are the best food to eat:
- Red meat
- Clams
- Canned tuna and sardines
- Chicken
- Turkey
In case you are vegan, then you do not need to worry. Here are some of your choices:
- Broccoli
- Beans
- Kale
- Food products that are fortified
7. Selenium
If you think you need to improve your immune system, your body needs enough of this nutrient. Therefore, the best choices are foods from animals and Brazil nuts. However, overeating is not good. The following choices are:
- Meat and liver
- Tuna, sardines, and halibut
- Cottage cheese
- Poultry
8. Zinc
It is a popular vitamin today for the immune system. It is vital for the growth of healthy cells in the immune system. Hence, you can find it in animals foods and other plant sources like:
- Crab
- Oyster
- Poultry
- Lean meat
- Chickpea
- Yogurt
9. B Vitamins
It is another important nutrient to make use stronger. You may take it naturally from foods like:
- Liver
- Milk products
- Eggs
- Cheese
- Fishes
- Dark green vegetables
However, you may also take it in oil form. Make sure to talk to your doctor and ask for the best suggestion.
The availability of food depends on location and season. That is why some may need to take vitamins to get enough of their body’s needs.