Read All About Vitamins

Vitamins are organic compounds necessary for growth, health, normal metabolism and physical well-being. Some vitamins are essential parts of enzymes -- the chemical molecules that catalyze or facilitate the completion of chemical reactions. Other vitamins form essential parts of hormones -- the chemical substances that promote and protect body health and reproduction.

Vitamins are classified as either fat-soluble or water-soluble. The fat-soluble vitamins (which include Vitamins A, D, E, and K) require protein carriers for absorption. These vitamins can be stored in the body for use at a later time. These nutrients are usually found in the liver and fatty tissue. Vitamin C and the B vitamins are water-soluble. These vitamins are more easily lost through excretion and are more sensitive to the effects of storage and cooking.

Vitamins can be obtained in "adequate" amounts from food sources, provided one eats a well-balanced diet made up of foods grown in nutrient-rich soil. However, there are many conditions and circumstances that make eating a well-balanced diet difficult, resulting in an inadequate vitamin intake. During such times, a vitamin supplement may be required. Some people, such as pregnant women, have special nutritional needs. Others, such as those with a restricted caloric intake, may be at risk for a vitamin deficiency. In these cases, supplements may be necessary to obtain optimal vitamin intake. Vitamin supplements are not meant to take the place of a good diet, but to enhance the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

 

Vitamin A
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
Vitamin B5
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid)
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
B Complex Choline
B Complex Inositol
B Complex Niacinamide
B Complex PABA
Vitamin C
Vitamin D
Vitamin E
Vitamin K