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Vitamins to Boost Immune System

Many of us don't realize just how many bacteria we are exposed to on a daily basis. This is one of the main reasons we get sick easily if our immune systems aren't working as hard as they can or should be. Luckily, there are multiple ways to boost your immune system, including the oral consumption of vitamins. The Mayo Clinic offers useful information on vitamins for boosting your immune system (see Resources).

  1. Vitamin A

    • This is the vitamin that is basically the defense to your immune system. Vitamin A helps prevent germs, viruses and bacteria from entering your body to wreak havoc on your immune system.

    Vitamin C

    • This is the vitamin you need to have in order to boost your immune system. Vitamin C makes the proteins inside your body responsible for killing viruses and germs.

    Vitamin E

    • This vitamin also plays a role concerning the immune system. Vitamin E produces another protein, interleukin-2, that fights and kills bacteria and viruses in your body.

    B Vitamins

    • These vitamins are known to supply the body with more energy as well as boost the immune system. According to the National Institutes of Health, vitamin B6 has increased white blood cells in women with an oral dosage of 2.1 milligrams per day.

    Zinc

    • Zinc is another way you can boost your immune system. Zinc actually helps lower cold and flu symptoms if ingested within 24 hours of the first symptoms. Zinc has its own role in the immune function along with the protein synthesis according to the National Institutes of Health.

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