| (NC)-Many experts believe vitamins, | | | | beta-carotene helps to boost the immune |
| especially antioxidant vitamins, help boost | | | | system. Also, evidence suggests that diets |
| the disease-fighting powers of the immune | | | | rich in carotenoids, including beta-carotene, |
| system. Antioxidants are thought to help | | | | are associated with lowered risks of certain |
| protect cells in the immune system from | | | | types of cancer. |
| damage caused by environmental contaminants, | | | | |
| cigarette smoke, radiation and normal wear | | | | Beta-carotene is found in yellow, red and |
| and tear. | | | | orange fruits, as well as dark green |
| | | | vegetables. |
| Following Canada's Food Guide is a great way | | | | |
| to get a full compliment of vitamins and | | | | Zinc & Selenium - The importance of adequate |
| minerals on a daily basis. The following are | | | | zinc intake has also been demonstrated in |
| some specific nutrients that many researchers | | | | numerous studies. A survey of an elderly, |
| believe may help boost the immune system: | | | | low-income population indicated that |
| | | | inadequate zinc intake may be linked to |
| Vitamin E - Studies showed an improvement in | | | | abnormal immune function. A study conducted |
| immune function in healthy individuals who | | | | in 1999 revealed that trace supplementation |
| received vitamin E supplements ranging from | | | | of zinc and selenium was associated with |
| 400 to 800 mg (IU) per day. Vitamin E is | | | | reduced incidence of infectious disease in |
| found in nuts, vegetable oil, corn, soya | | | | adults. Zinc and selenium are found in meat, |
| beans, wheat germ and whole grain cereals. | | | | poultry, whole grains and dairy products. |
| | | | |
| Vitamin C - Recent reviews suggest that | | | | Canadians should consider taking a daily |
| vitamin C may reduce the duration of a cold, | | | | multivitamin like Centrum(R) Forte to acquire |
| as well as the severity of its symptoms. The | | | | adequate amounts of these immune boosting |
| current recommended daily intake of vitamin C | | | | nutrients. Multivitamins are formulated to |
| may be enough to prevent scurvy, but it might | | | | complement a healthy diet and maintain a |
| not be sufficient to support the immune | | | | consistent level of nutrients required by the |
| response. Vitamin C is readily available in | | | | body. Their careful combination of |
| citrus fruits, green vegetables and potatoes. | | | | ingredients provides optimal absorption and |
| | | | maximum benefits. |
| Beta-Carotene - Some researchers believe | | | | |