Micronutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, play a special role in keeping a healthy immune system. Vitamins, such as vitamins A, C, D and E, along with minerals, such as zinc and selenium, have crucial functions in different parts of the immune system to ensure it operates properly. Research shows that the body requires a constant intake of vitamin A through food in order to support immunity. Antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium, protect and strengthen cells of the immune system by neutralizing reactive oxygen species—molecules that may cause severe damage to our cells (Source 1, 2, 3). Vitamin C also plays a role in stimulating the production of white blood cells, a.k.a. soldiers who fight intruders in the body (Source), while zinc aids in the growth and development of immune cells (Source 1, 2). Lastly, there is a clear link between vitamin D deficiency and adverse health outcomes due to the significant role of vitamin D on immunity (Source 1, 2).