Understanding Vitamins

Vitamins are defined as organic essential nutrients that are vital to life. Vitamins are broken into two groups, water-soluble and fat-soluble. Water-soluble vitamins enter directly into the blood when consumed and move about freely. These vitamins need to be eaten regularly and have less risk of reaching a toxic level because the body can get rid of some excess. The water-soluble vitamins are Vitamin C, and the B Vitamins (Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Biotin, Pantothenic Acid, B6, Folate, and B12). The fat-soluble vitamins are stored by the body and must be transported around by protein carriers. Because these vitamins are stored by the body with no excess being secreted they do not have to be consumed as regularly and there is more risk of reaching toxic levels. The fat-soluble vitamins are A, D, E and K.
It is important to understand that vitamins do not provide the body with fuel or energy but they do play vital roles in the bodies many functions. Vitamins contribute to the health and function of the eyes, skin, teeth, nervous system, GI tract, blood, lungs, bones, protein synthesis, growth and reproduction, and the metabolic process. Vitamin deficiencies can cause some severe diseases and conditions, however the body’s vitamin needs can easily be met by eating a balanced diet. Vitamin supplements should only be taken if advised by a physician or a registered dietitian and only in cases where a dietary adjustment has not been able to correct a deficiency.