Eating a balanced meal loaded with nutrients greatly influences our health. Much of this influence can be attributed to the micronutrients present, particularly vitamins.
Vitamins are organic compounds our body needs to perform a range of essential functions. As of now, there are 13 vitamins that are classified as 'essential'. Essential means that our bodies are unable to produce these compounds in the necessary amounts to support growth, repair, and maintenance processes. As such, we need to consume them in our diet.
Some vitamins exist in multiple forms known as vitamers. For example, vitamin E is a family of compounds that consists of 8 different vitamin E parent compounds – 4 different tocopherols and 4 different tocotrienols. These vitamers are chemically related and share similar (but sometimes different) metabolic activity.
These vitamins are generally divided into two primary categories: fat-soluble and water-soluble. The fat-soluble vitamins include A, D, E, and K. They are largely stored in the liver and adipose (fat) tissue. On the other hand, water-soluble vitamins, such as the B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12) and vitamin C, tend not to be stored in the body for as long and need to be replenished regularly.
The reason we need these vitamins is because of the unique functions each one performs. For instance, Vitamin A is essential for good vision (especially in low light conditions), immune function, and cell growth. B vitamins are essential for energy production, immune function, and iron absorption. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and is needed for collagen, neurotransmitter (catecholamines, specifically), and carnitine production. It also helps boost iron absorption. Vitamin D is necessary for bone health as it aids in calcium absorption in the gut. Vitamin E protects cells from damage due to its antioxidant properties. Lastly, Vitamin K is necessary for blood clotting.
Importantly, vitamins usually do not work alone. They work together in a complimentary fashion to achieve their functions. For example, Vitamin D aids in calcium absorption, but Vitamin K makes sure absorbed calcium is used properly in the bones and prevents its build up in arteries.
Ensuring an adequate intake of these essential vitamins through a varied diet is important for maintaining good health. Whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, animal proteins, dairy products, nuts, and grains, are great sources of different essential vitamins.
Under certain circumstances, some people have difficulty getting necessary amounts of all vitamins from their diet alone. This could be due to specific medical conditions, dietary restrictions, or age-related issues. In these cases, multivitamin or individual vitamin supplements may be beneficial. However, before starting any supplement regimen. it's important to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure no contraindications in vitamin supplement use exist.
In conclusion, vitamins play a significant role in many bodily functions. Ensuring a balanced intake of these micronutrients is key to good health. As we continue to understand more about what they are and why we need them, we can more effectively manage their role in supporting our overall health.
