Looking Again At The ABC Of Vitamins

The importance of taking vitamins is stated everywhere these days, but how many of us really know the benefits of specific nutrients? We’re all aware of their importance to our health and wellbeing but it seems like some of the basic facts about nutrition are glossed over, as if health advocates assume we already have this knowledge. The following guide will refresh your memory about the key features of the most important vitamins.

Vitamin A – The first of an alphabetical list, vitamin A is essential for healthy eyesight, skin, tissue, teeth and bones. We can find it in brightly coloured fruits and vegetables such as capsicum peppers, carrots, spinach, melon and apricots. 

B Vitamins – There are numerous B vitamins, and each plays an essential role in your wellness. B vitamins such as B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5, B6, B7 (biotin), B9 (folic acid) and B12 are responsible for helping your body to process food and take energy from it. They can be found in leafy green vegetables as well as whole grains, but vegans and vegetarians may sometimes need a supplement to compensate for missing out on meat – the greatest source of B vitamins is animal protein.

Vitamin C – Vital for proper immune functioning, vitamin C is usually the first supplement we turn to when we feel a cold coming on. The vitamin is also important for healing tissue and also has an antioxidant effect. A continual supply of vitamin C is recommended, and it can be found in most fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits.

Vitamin D – The benefits of this vitamin include anti-cancer effects, blood pressure regulation, immune system support, bone health and thyroid regulation, among others. Within the category there are two types of D vitamin. Vitamin D3 comes from the sun and is thought to be more beneficial than its counterpart D2, found in cereals and milk. Be sure to get a safe and healthy dose of sunlight in addition to fish oils, liver and eggs.

Vitamin E – Often called the beauty vitamin, vitamin E features in hundreds of cosmetic skin and hair products. However, it is most effective when ingested, and is a vital nutrient for the blood as well as having anti-ageing effects.  Find vitamin E in nuts, seeds, cereals and leafy green vegetables.

In total, there are thirteen main vitamins thought to be essential to your wellness. Vitamins, minerals and supplements are useful methods of boosting your supply of these vital nutrients. Though it is preferable to take vitamins from food as nature intended, supplements can provide a useful support at times when the right dietary elements are in short supply.