What type of vegetables should be included in a balanced diet to support immune health?

Including green leafy vegetables in a balanced diet is crucial for supporting immune health due to their rich nutrient profile. These vegetables, such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard, are high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as various antioxidants. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining the integrity of the mucosal surfaces in the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, which act as barriers to pathogens. Vitamin C is well-known for its role in enhancing immune function, as it helps stimulate the production of white blood cells and improves the skin's defense against infections. The antioxidants found in green leafy vegetables also combat oxidative stress in the body, reducing inflammation and supporting overall immune responses.

In contrast, starchy vegetables, root vegetables, and frozen vegetables, while they can be part of a balanced diet, do not provide the same concentration of specific vitamins and antioxidants crucial for immune support as green leafy vegetables do. Starchy vegetables are higher in carbohydrates and do not offer as many micronutrients necessary for bolstering the immune system. Root vegetables can be nutritious, but they typically contain fewer vitamins compared to their leafy counterparts. Frozen vegetables can retain their nutrients but are less focused on boosting immunity unless they are specifically green leafy varieties. Thus, green leafy vegetables stand out