Site Search
Vitamins
| Vitamins |
 |
 |
 |
|
Vitamins and minerals are compounds that the body needs in varying amounts for normal growth, development, and functioning. The 13 vitamins accepted by most nutritionists include the water soluble B-complex vitamins and C, which are easily eliminated from the body, and the fat soluble A, D, E, and K, which can (though rarely) accumulate in the body and cause toxic reactions. In the body, vitamins work with enzymes and other bodily compounds to help produce energy, build tissues, and remove waste products. Vitamins must be consumed in sufficient amounts to prevent deficiency diseases like scurvy (from too little vitamin C) and pellagra (lack of niacin, one of the B vitamins). When taken in larger quantities some vitamins and minerals have therapeutic properties that are useful in the prevention or treatment of disease. Some food supplements, such as acerola and wheat germ oil, are sold for their high concentrations of specific vitamins.
|