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Vitamins to Help The Flu

The immune system helps defend the body against germs and diseases, including the flu, and your body's resistance to such invasions is called immunity. While there is no cure for the common flu virus, strengthening your immune system can help prevent the flu and shorten its duration. Steps such as hand washing, coughing into your elbow and staying home when ill can lessen your chances of catching the flu, and you can also shore up your body's natural immunity by making sure you get enough of several specific vitamins.

  1. Vitamin C

    • Vitamin C is also known as ascorbic acid. The antioxidants found in vitamin C boost your immune system and may help shorten the duration of your flu. Vitamin C is found in oranges and other citrus fruits, as well as various juices, and can also be taken as a supplement. Exact dosages fluctuate from source to source, with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommending 60mg daily, while the Mayo Clinic allows for doses of up to 2,000mg per day.

    Vitamin E

    • Vitamin E is an antioxidant that stimulates natural "killer cells" to fight germs and harmful cells in your body. Although there is no cure for the flu virus, vitamin E can help protect you by increasing the body's production of B-cells, which help your immune system make the antibodies it needs to destroy bacteria. Ingest 60 to 100mg of vitamin E daily through foods such as sunflower and other seeds, vegetable oils and grains. You can also take vitamin E as a supplement.

    Vitamin A

    • Vitamin A is a natural antiviral agent that is necessary for your immune system to work properly. The cells that line your airways and intestines work as a barrier to defend against viruses such as the flu. Vitamin A helps maintain those barriers by developing and maintaining your white blood cell count, fighting infections and viruses. According to Oregon State University's Linus Pauling Institute, the recommended daily intake of vitamin A ranges from 700 to 900mcg for adults. Eat plenty of foods rich in vitamin A---such as spinach, sweet potatoes, eggs or mangoes---or take the vitamin as a supplement.

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