5 essential vitamins you need for winter months

It isn't uncommon for many of today's consumers to believe the only thing they need to stock up on during the winter months is vitamin C. If you want to maintain good health throughout the season, you will need several vitamins to promote health and prevent illness.

Some people choose a multivitamin so they don't have to worry about taking individual supplements throughout the winter months or because the thought of taking so many individual pills sounds tedious.

If you choose not to take a multivitamin, here are the top five vitamins you should be taking during the winter months.

Even though many believe this vitamin prevents the flu and colds, it does not. However, it does reduce the severity and length of illness.

Because vitamin C plays the role of an antioxidant, it helps protect the body against diseases like cancer and heart disease. Vitamin C is also a great immune system booster. It can be found in a lot of vegetables and fruits and is especially known for being in citrus fruits such as oranges.

Iron is necessary for red cells to form and carry oxygen throughout the body. Proper ingestion of iron ensures vitality, energy and cognitive performance. Those who do not receive enough iron are often anaemic. This essential ingredient can be found in a lot of red meat so for those who are vegetarian, taking this supplement is even more important because you're not getting it from your food.

Vitamin A is vital for the repairing of tissues necessary for development and growth. It is also important for the maintenance of proper eyesight and a strong immune system.

Having plenty of Vitamin A in your diet can help keep your immune system ready for oncoming attacks during cold and flu season. Load up on those sweet potatoes this holiday season to get some Vitamin A in your system without having to take a supplement.

Vitamin E protects the cell membranes from becoming damaged and is believed to protect against heart disease and some forms of cancer. It can be found in vegetable oils, nuts and green, leafy vegetables so make sure to get your fill of greens this year! It's also known for improving the appearance of your skin.

Selenium is actually a mineral that is created from the enzymes that fight the body from becoming damaged. Because it is an antioxidant, it makes the immune system strong and is believed to protect the body against cancer, particularly prostate cancer.

Selenium is found in seafood, pork, turkey, beef and chicken. If you're a vegetarian, you can eat mushrooms or whole grains.

Ingesting each of these vitamins and minerals daily plays an important role in making your immune system stronger. These supplements also help boost your energy levels, improve your complexion and restore your vitality.