It is a widely held belief that essential vitamins for a healthy immune system are important to all of us. Many of us have heard that we need to consume certain vitamins in our daily diet if we want to maintain optimal health. We all know that it is a good idea to eat a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. But what most people don’t realise is that many vitamins, including some that are required to help us fight off the flu and other infections, can actually be found in some common, everyday foods. Here are a few examples.
Milk and yoghurt contain many vitamins A, D, E and K. If you enjoy consuming them or you consume them in the proper proportions, they can be very beneficial to your immune system. But they are also very common in junk food, especially those that contain sugars and yeast or high starch content. These kinds of foods are usually loaded with artificial flavourings, highly processed oils and sugars that do more harm than good to our bodies. A large percentage of junk foods contain no essential vitamins at all. It is smart to avoid junk food and consider getting them only once per week.
Flax seeds contain essential fatty acids which can help to support the function and overall health of the immune system. One of the benefits of flaxseed supplements is the fact that they can help control the symptoms of allergies, asthma, sinusitis, hay fever and other respiratory issues. They have been proven to be effective when combined with other remedies as well. By working together, these supplements can give your body a powerful defence against infectious agents and harmful toxins.
Other examples of common, everyday vitamins that can support the immune system are avocados, bananas, eggs, strawberries, carrots, spinach and peanut butter. Some of these vitamins help the body to produce antibodies, which are key to fighting disease. Avocados can help to reduce cholesterol levels and bananas contain essential vitamins A, B-complex and E. Carrots contain beta-carotene, which can help improve eyesight and increase the production of red blood cells. Spinach contains magnesium and vitamin A, along with potassium and folic acid. The benefits of these vitamins can make a huge difference in how you feel.
In addition to these basic essential vitamins there are a few others that should be taken more often. Biotin, calcium, magnesium and selenium can improve the function of your digestive system. Selenium works as an antioxidant to help protect against premature ageing and cancer. Folic acid is also essential for the cell to cell communication. All of these vitamins and minerals work together to improve your overall health.
So if you take a daily multivitamin, make sure it contains the above ingredients. If you would like to improve your immune system, you will need to focus on the diet you eat and the natural supplements that are available. It is possible to build an arsenal of vitamins and supplements that will help your immune system by yourself. It will take time and commitment, but the results will be worth it. It is much easier than using prescription drugs. So what are you waiting for?
