Vitamins Why Are They Important
Date Added: May 03, 2008 02:08:17 PM
Vitamins are some organic compounds which are required by our body in small amounts, for the proper functioning of different metabolic and physiological functions within the body. They are essential for the proper growth of the body. Unlike carbohydrates, fats etc. they do not provide any calories. But their presence is essential for our health. With the exception of vitamin D, the body can’t produce any vitamins and they have to be sourced from our food. If there is any deficiency in the intake of vitamins, it may lead to various diseases.
There are two types of vitamins --
(1) Water soluble -- Vitamins B and C
(2) Fat Soluble -- Vitamins A, D, E and K.
Fat soluble vitamins can be stored within the body. But water soluble vitamins can’t be stored within the body and they have to be sourced from our food. A short description about the different vitamins is given below:
(a) Vitamin A or Retinol : It is a very powerful antioxidant that is essential for our immune system. It helps to maintain a healthy hair and skin. It is obtained from butter, cheese and other dairy products, eggs, chicken, liver and different types of fish and fish oil.
(b) Vitamin B complex : It is a group of vitamins consisting of vitamins B1,B2,B3,B6, B12 and Folic Acid. These are required for cell repair, digestion and to strengthen the immune system. Folic acid is particularly required during pregnancy and lack of this vitamin causes anaemia. The common sources of these vitamins are meat, poultry, milk and other dairy products, different fruits and vegetables, nuts and pulses etc.
(c) Vitamin C : Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant. It is required for the growth and repair of the body tissue and for a strong immune system. It also helps to control the blood pressure and helps in the absorption of iron. Common sources of vitamin C are different citrus fruits and other types of fruits and vegetables.
(d) Vitamin D or Calciferol : This is the only vitamin which the body can produce. This vitamin is produced in the skin through the action of sun light. It helps in the absorption of calcium and is required for healthy bones and teeth.
(e) Vitamin E : vitamin E is required for the maintenance of the blood circulation system and a healthy heart. It is obtained from different oils like Sunflower Oil, Olive Oil, vegetables like tomatoes, potatoes, spinach, from different nuts, fish and different fruits.
(f) Vitamin K : This vitamin is required to help in the proper clotting process of the blood. It is obtained from most vegetables, meat and cereals.
Though vitamins are essential for our body, these are required only in small amounts. Excess intake of vitamins may cause adverse effects on our health.
