The environment we live in is becoming more and more toxic each day. Even the foods we grow are laden with pesticides and grown in mineral and vitamin depleted soils. Your body needs vitamins and minerals in order to keep your immune system healthy. A healthy immune system will help reduce your risk of disease - everything from the common cold to cancer.

While the best way to get your vitamins is from organic fruits and vegetables, it's hard to eat enough to make sure you get your recommended daily amounts of each one. That's where supplements can come in.

Vitamin supplements can come in many forms. Multivitamins that have a mixture of different vitamins and minerals. Supplements that have just one vitamin. Even supplements that combine vitamins, minerals, herbs and other substances such as bee pollen and Omega 3 fatty acids.

Some important vitamins and minerals are listed below.

Vitamin C

This is probably one of the most familiar vitamins and is an antioxidant that plays a huge role in the destructions of free radicals which are believed to cause many disease such as cancer. Vitamin C can also help ward off a cold and fight bacterial infections. It's other roles include maintaining healthy blood and skin elasticity. Without vitamin C, your body is unable to absorb iron.

Vitamin E

This is another of the antioxidant vitamins. In addition to it's important role in fighting free radicals, vitamin E is thought to help prevent cataracts, enhance the skin and even lower your risk of heart disease.

New research shows that this vitamin may help prevent the growth of tumors.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is vital in maintaining healthy bones and teeth as without it your body would be unable to absorb calcium or phosphorus.

Vitamin B

This is actually a family of vitamins with many member. The B vitamins can help your body combat stress and even improve your attitude and outlook. The vitamin B1 helps your body turn carbohydrates into energy.

Folic Acid

Folic acid helps in the formation of cells which is why it is so important for pregnant women to make sure they get adequate amounts. It also helps newborn babies become resistant to disease and in red blood cell production.

Iron

This mineral is vital for healthy blood. It's helps the red blood cells get oxygen and also has a role in helping to resist infection.

Calcium

Essential for strong bones, this mineral also has a role in building muscle and proper clotting of blood. New research is starting to show in might have a role in lessening the risk of certain cancers.

Magnesium

This mineral goes hand in hand with calcium and also plays a role in healthy bones and muscle. Magnesium can also help activate enzymes and protect arteries from wear due to high blood pressure.