Vitamins and the immune system are connected together in many different ways. The immune system is a complex means of defense within your body. Its goal is to stave off harmful infections, germs, bacteria and viruses. It even attacks your own cells if there is something perceived to be wrong with them.

So just how are vitamins and the immune system linked? Vitamins can increase the ability of the immune system to function properly in many different and interesting ways. Different vitamins stimulate the production of certain antibodies and cells, while other vitamins aid in the overall functioning of the immune system and help to keep your body health and prevent illness.

Vitamin C is probably the mostly commonly referenced when it comes to vitamins and the immune system. Vitamin C can help increase the production of white blood cells. It can also help to increase the production of interferon, a specific type of antibody that covers the surfaces of "friendly" cells.

Vitamin A also has many positive effects on the immune system. Vitamin A can help your body produce both natural killer cells and T cells, which have different functions for fighting off illness and disease. Vitamin A is also an antioxidant, so will help to keep your body healthy and feeling young by combating free radicals.

Another helpful vitamin for the immune system is Vitamin E. Vitamin E helps to stimulate the production of B cells, an important type of cell in your immune system. B cells have the task of producing antibodies, without which you wouldn't be able to fight off any illnesses. Vitamin E is also another antioxidant and can help maintain your overall health and functioning.