Vitamins

Vitamins are nutrients that can be gained in the foods that we eat, and these nutrients are essential for health and wellness. These organic compounds cannot be created by the body, so it is necessary to get vitamins through food or supplements.

There are a number of different types of vitamins that are needed to sustain life, and these vitamins can be found in various kinds of food. In order to get all of the vitamins that you need, it is essential to eat a well-balanced diet which contains different types of ingredients from all of the major food groups.

The Role of Vitamins

Overall health is supported when you get enough vitamins and minerals in your diet. All of the major organ functions are affected by vitamin consumption, and it’s necessary to continually replenish the body with vitamins in order to maintain good health.

Vitamins are actually classified into two separate categories: water soluble and fat soluble. Water soluble vitamins will easily break down in water so that they can immediately be used in the body, and examples of water soluble vitamins include vitamin C and B vitamins. On the other hand, fat soluble vitamins must be absorbed in the small intestine before they are in a usable format. Examples of fat soluble vitamins include vitamins A, D, E and K.

Why Vitamins are Important

The reason vitamins are so important is because they promote development, growth, and repair within the body. Specific types of vitamins and minerals are necessary for certain bodily functions, which is why all the vitamins need to be obtained through a well balanced diet. If vitamin deficiencies occur, it can lead to disease and illness.

Here are some vitamin needs that should be considered at various stages in life:

• Pregnancy: When a woman is pregnant, the fetus is growing at a rapid rate. Vitamins are essential for healthy fetus development, and vitamin deficiencies can lead to pregnancy complications and birth defects. Women should begin taking vitamin supplements several months before they get pregnant in order to prepare their body for the changes that will be occurring.
• Infants: Once a baby is born, they continue to grow very quickly. Infants can receive the necessary nutrients through their mother’s milk, which means that the nutrition of the mother continues to be very important for the development of the child. It is suggested that mothers continue to take supplements while breastfeeding in order to be sure that there are enough nutrients available for both the mother and baby.
• Children: Throughout childhood, it is essential for the child to continue receiving good nutrition because their body is still developing. This period in their life is a critical time to teach the child about managing their health and creating healthy habits.
• Adults: As we age, the body begins to break down and disease may set in. Maintaining healthy vitamin consumption can slow down the aging process and prevent common diseases.
• Elderly: Cell regeneration slows down the older we get, which means that the body is less efficient. The vitamin needs are higher in elderly people, and vitamin deficiencies are common. Elderly people can improve their health by maintaining a good diet and taking supplements daily.

Research has found direct correlations between vitamins and health, and a person can decrease their risk of disease through a healthy diet and vitamin consumption. For example, some types of vitamins are known as “antioxidants,” and it has been found that antioxidants can help to prevent heart disease.

Vitamin Supplements

The best way to get the vitamins that are necessary for health is by eating a well balanced diet, but sometimes it is necessary to take supplements in order to provide your body with all of the vitamins that are needed. Many people do not eat the right balance of health foods, and they may be deficient in certain types of nutrients.

Luckily, we live in a time where we have easy access to supplements that can support our health, and it is a good idea to take supplements daily in order to make up for any nutrient deficiencies that may be occurring as a result of your diet.