Are Vitamins Good for You

The human body is a highly complex structure and requires specific nutrients for its normal growth and development. Different nutrients aid in different functions of the body. The body constantly needs a minimal amount of vitamins and minerals along with the other important nutrients for the smooth functioning. Now some of you may be thinking of questions like, 'what are vitamins and what they do', while others may be wondering, 'why are vitamins good for you'. Let us get to the basics first and try to find the importance of vitamins for our body.

What are Vitamins?
Vitamins are organic compounds that are needed by our body for growth, energy, tissue repair, waste removal and many other functions. Our body cannot synthesize them and hence they have to be consumed through the diet or by vitamin supplements. Vitamins are known as micro nutrients, as the body requires them in small amounts. Although they are just needed in minimal quantities, they play a vital role in many important functions of the body, and deficiency of these vitamins can lead to several health disorders. There are two types of vitamins:

Water Soluble Vitamins

• Vitamin B
• Vitamin C

Fat Soluble Vitamins

• Vitamin A
• Vitamin D
• Vitamin E
• Vitamin K

Why are Vitamins Good for You?
Vitamins play a significant role in maintenance of your health. Every vitamin has a specific task to perform and your body solely depends on that vitamin for that particular task. Vitamins are required for:

• Growth
• Cell development
• Bone and teeth development
• Strengthening the immune system
• Healthy skin
• Production of antibodies
• Healing wounds
• Aid in digestion
• Prevent conditions like, night blindness, scurvy, rickets etc.
• Maintain cell respiration
• Source of energy
• Proper circulation
• Healthy hair

These were some of the many functions of vitamins. Hence, it is very important to consume the right amounts of vitamins in the daily diet. Poor eating habits, emotional stress, alcoholism and improper absorption can lead to deficiency of vitamins. The daily vitamin requirement depends on various factors like age, sex, diet, weight, general health, allergies, etc. The best way to fulfill the regular requirement of vitamins is by diet, however, you can choose to take certain supplements for vitamins that your diet may be lacking. Taking too much of a single vitamin may result in overdose symptoms and may be dangerous. It can give rise to serious and long lasting health effects. Hence, it is very important to choose a multivitamin or individual vitamin supplements on consulting a dietitian or a qualified nutritionist. They can help you find which vitamin is suitable for you and in which dosages, as per your health needs. Read more on benefits of vitamins.

Not all vitamin supplements are safe for you. Research well on the brands and manufacturers. Check for the nutrients they offer and the daily dosage requirements. Also, make sure you are aware of the expiry dates to avoid any health hazards.

So, now you know how important vitamins are for the body. I'm sure you will not ask the question 'are vitamins good for you' again. A well balanced diet with all the essential nutrients is the key to remain healthy throughout the life. Take care!