The immune system is a complex network of cells, organs and tissues that identifies and kills disease causing bacteria and viruses that invade the body. It protects your body from harmful foreign substances, destroys malignant cells and eliminate cell debris to keep the body healthy. It is composed of the thymus, spleen, lymph nodes and lymph tissues, stem cells, white blood cells, antibodies and lymphokines.
Vitamins and minerals keep the immune system strong and well nourished. You need to take the required daily amounts of vitamins and minerals to keep your immune system in perfect condition.
Here are the vitamins and minerals your body needs to nourish your immune system:
1. Vitamin A
Vitamin A is a group of fat-soluble compound that play an important role in the proper functioning of the immune system. It helps in the formation of white blood cells which are the body’s fighters against infection. It also boosts the health of your skin, eyes, respiratory tract and intestinal tract. These are some of the major entry points of your body, and your immune system works to defend them from harmful foreign organisms.
2. Vitamin B6
It is another water-soluble substance that helps to fight off infections by providing proper nutrition to your lymphoid organs which is composed of the spleen, the thymus, and the lymph nodes. These are the organs that work to produce white blood cells.
3. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is the vitamin that we can get from the sun. It interacts with the many different cells within the immune system. It helps to reduce inflammation and it works with many different proteins as your body’s builder of worn out tissues.
4. Vitamin E
It is a fat-soluble vitamin that works to protect your body from the harmful effects of free radicals. Free radicals are charged particles that can cause cellular damage, premature aging, and cancer.
5. Selenium
Selenium is a trace mineral that also works to neutralize the effect of free radicals in your body. It helps to provide nourishment to your immune system and thyroid function.
6. Zinc
Zinc is another trace mineral that your body needs to activate T-lymphocyte cells which your body uses to destroy harmful foreign organisms. It also helps to strengthen your skin’s defenses against disease-causing invaders.
These are the vitamins and minerals that help to keep your immune system strong and healthy. Take them regularly to ensure optimum health and protection from diseases and infections.
