Which vitamin is primarily associated with immune health?

Vitamin C plays a crucial role in supporting immune health due to its ability to stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are vital for fighting off infections. It acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, and it has a role in the functioning of various immune cells. Vitamin C can enhance the activity of phagocytes, which are cells that engulf and destroy pathogens, thereby boosting the overall immune response. Additionally, it helps in the maintenance of skin and mucosal barriers, which are essential for preventing pathogens from entering the body.

While other vitamins like A, D, and E also contribute to immune function in various ways, Vitamin C is most widely recognized for its direct and immediate impact on the immune system. Vitamin A is important for the maintenance of epithelial tissues and the function of immune cells, Vitamin D is crucial for the modulation of the immune response and reducing inflammation, and Vitamin E is known for its antioxidant properties but does not have as immediate an impact on immune cell production and function as Vitamin C does.