Vitamins: How Important are They?

by | Jan 29, 2019 | Health

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Vitamins are essential for the body to develop and function properly. The human body can produce some of these crucial vitamins and minerals, but some of them can only be obtained through food. A healthy balanced diet will help you get all the nutrients your body needs. However, due to many people’s modern, fast-paced lifestyle, they don’t get to keep a healthy diet which hinders them from getting the right amount of nutrients their body requires. This often leads to vitamin deficiencies. This is the reason why many people in Toronto are taking vitamins in the form of a dietary supplement.

Vitamins in a Nutshell

Vitamins are organic substances needed by the body in small amounts to help sustain life. They can be categorized into two classifications: water-soluble and fat-soluble.

  • Water-soluble vitamins need to dissolve in water before being absorbed by the body. Examples of these are vitamin C and B-complex vitamins, such as vitamins B6, B12, riboflavin, folate, and niacin.
  • Fat-soluble vitamins are those that dissolve in fat and can be stored in the body for a long time. Examples of these are vitamins A, D, E, and K.

Who Can Benefit from Vitamin and Mineral Supplements?

The body only requires small amounts of vitamins and minerals which can generally be provided by a healthy, balanced diet. However, some people with certain conditions in Toronto and the rest of the world may need more sources of vitamins and minerals to avoid any vitamin deficiency. These people include:

  • Pregnant and breastfeeding women
  • Smokers
  • The elderly
  • Vegetarians or vegans
  • Women who experience excessive bleeding during menstruation
  • People suffering from certain food allergies
  • People with diarrhea, celiac disease, pancreatitis, and other malabsorption problems.

Last Reminders

Vitamins are essential for different metabolic processes but should not be used to replace a healthy diet. Additionally, they should only be taken in small doses. Any excess vitamin C will be flushed out by your body when you pee, so your body needs a new supply on a daily basis. However, some vitamins like vitamin D and B vitamins can be deadly when you overdose on them.

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