Over the last decade the importance of vitamin D has become more significant and in the forefront of research. It has been common knowledge that vitamin D plays an important role in helping the body to absorb calcium and bone mineralisation. Limited dietary sources of vitamin D and insufficient sun exposure can contribute to vitamin D deficiencies. 

>>>> Want more information on vitamin D3 get our newsletter

Knowing the importance of vitamin D and the fact that so many Australians and New Zealanders have a vitamin D deficiency means that it is essential that we are getting enough vitamin D at all times.

Multivitamins and Healthy Immune Function

Adequate nutrient intakes are required for the immune system to function efficiently. A good multivitamin can enhance the immune system by supporting the body’s natural defenses on both a structural and cellular level.

An article published in the British Journal of Nutrition summarizes the roles of select vitamins and trace elements in immune function. Adequate intakes of micronutrients are required for the immune system to function efficiently. Micronutrient deficiency suppresses immunity by affecting antibody responses, leading to imbalances in the immune system. This situation increases susceptibility to infections, which increases disease and death risk. In addition, infections aggravate micronutrient deficiencies by reducing nutrient intake, increasing losses, and interfering with utilization by altering metabolic pathways. Inadequate intakes of micronutrients are common in people with eating disorders, smokers (active and passive), individuals with chronic alcohol abuse, certain diseases, during pregnancy and lactation, and in the elderly.

Micronutrients contribute to the body’s natural defenses on three levels by supporting physical barriers (skin/mucosa), cellular immunity, and antibody production. Vitamins A, C, E, and the mineral zinc assist in enhancing the skin barrier function. Vitamins A, B6, B12, C, D, E, and folic acid, and the minerals iron, zinc, copper and selenium work synergistically to support the protective activities of the immune cells. Finally, all these micronutrients, with the exception of vitamin C and iron, are essential for the production of antibodies.

Overall, inadequate intake and status of these vitamins and minerals may lead to a suppressed immune system, which increases the risk of infections and aggravates malnutrition. Therefore, supplementation with a multivitamin that includes these micronutrients can support the body’s natural defense system by enhancing all three levels of immunity.

Br J Nutr. 2007 Oct;98 Suppl 1:S29-35.

If You Like The Quality Of Our Articles Then Subscribe for Our Newsletter

>

Getting the right amount of nutrients is essential for the immune system to function efficiently. A good multivitamin can enhance the immune system by supporting the body’s natural defenses.   A  top rated supplement pack is the cornerstone of good health.

Look for a product that has both multiminerals and antioxidants and vitamins in its formulations.

•  Antioxidants—a daily vitamin & antioxidant supplement that delivers a wide spectrum of essential vitamins and cofactors needed for long-term optimal health and a comprehensive range of antioxidants to defend against oxidative stress—and
• A Multimineral to supply you with a full range of essentials minerals at effective dosages.

For more information either get our newsletter on what vitamins can you trust or go check which supplement should men and women take.