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