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VITAMINS - Back
Overview
Vitamins are natural organic substances required by virtually
all life. They are essential for the proper regulation of
our reproduction, growth, health, and energy production. Humans
are unable to manufacture most of the vitamins we require,
and therefore must obtain these vital nutrients from dietary
sources, either as whole foods or supplements.
Vitamins are commonly referred to as micronutrients because
of the extremely small amounts required to maintain optimal
health, as compared to macronutrients such as fats, protein
and carbohydrates, which are required in much greater amounts.
Vitamins, unlike the macronutrients, are not a source of calories,
but without adequate amounts we cannot utilize the macronutrients
and health energy levels suffer.
Vitamins are divided into two sub-categories, fat-soluble
vitamins and water-soluble vitamins. The four fat soluble
vitamins, vitamins A, D, E and K, share a chemical relationship,
based on the common need for cholesterol I their synthesis.
The fat-soluble vitamins can be stored in fatty tissues and
be released at a later time as needed. The nine water-soluble
vitamins, which include the B-complex family and vitamin C,
are easily absorbed yet cannot be stored in the body and must
be replenished on a daily basis from food sources or as a
supplement.
B-vitamins function as coenzymes to facilitate human metabolism
and energy production. They help us maintain healthy skin,
eyes, muscle tone, and support the functions of the liver
and central nervous system. They are also extremely important
in helping to deal with depression, stress and anxiety. While
B-vitamins are normally taken in a balanced complex of other
B-vitamins, occasionally one B-vitamin may be necessary to
treat a particular disorder. Deficiency in B-vitamins may
result in lethargy, anemia, nervousness, lack of appetite,
poor night vision, and skin and hair problems.
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Vitamins Glossary
Niacin (as
niacinamide) Also known as B3, niacin helps increase oxygen
transport in the blood and fatty acid and nucleic acid production,
and is specifically required for the production of the coenzyme
NAD by the cells. NAD is in turn required by the enzymes involved
in every step of the energy production pathway.
Riboflavin
Is a precursor for two co-enzymes, which participate in energy
production (ATP). Also known as B2, riboflavin is involved
in food metabolism, formation of red blood cells, skin and
eye health, activation of other B-Vitamins, and in regenerating
glutathione (which protects against harmful free-radicals).
Vitamin A (as palmitate)
is an essential nutrient, required for normal vision and for
healthy skin and mucous membranes. It is also needed by the
thymus gland. Beta carotene is a nontoxic precursor (building
block) of vitamin A and a major component of the body's natural
antioxidant defenses.
Vitamin B1 (as thiamine
mononitrate) also known as thiamine, B1 is important for food
metabolism and required for energy production in the brain
and normal functioning of the heart, muscles, central nerves
system and gastrointestinal tract.
Vitamin B2 (see riboflavin)
Vitamin B3 (see niacin)
Vitamin B5 (as calcium
pantothenate) known as the anti-stress vitamin, B5 support
the production of adrenal hormones and red blood cells. Used
in manufacturing coenzymes which are key to the utilization
of fats and carbohydrate in energy production.
Vitamin B6 (as pyridoxine
hydrochloride) supports nervous system and production of neurotransmitters,
in the brain; critical for the maintenance of hormonal balance;
supports immune function; helps regulate electrolyte balance.
Vitamin B12 (as cyanocabalamin)
acts as a coenzyme in folicin absorption; plays a role in
synthesis of DNA and red blood cells; may influence production
of neurotransmitters.
Vitamin C (as ascorbic acid) vital to collagen
formation, the connective substance in cells. Helps in the
formation of proteins called collagen. Strengthens the tissue
which further strengthens the capillaries, skin, teeth and
the bone structure. Fights toxic effects of smoke and pollution.
Protects fat soluble vitamins from oxidation. Helps in healing,
in production of red blood cells in preventing hemorrhaging,
fighting bacterial infections, and regulating cholesterol.
Helps the body to absorb iron. C is also a very active antioxidant.
Vitamin D (as calciferol) essential to calcium
and phosphorus utilization. Promotes strong bones and teeth.
Our main source of D is sunlight.
Vitamin E (as alpha-tocopheryl) Powerful
antioxidant that prevents the oxidation of lipids. Since cell
membranes are composed of lipids, it effectively prevents
the cells’ protective coatings from being attached by
free radicals. Also improves oxygen utilization, enhances
immune response, play a role in the prevention of cataracts,
caused by free radical damage, and may reduce the risk of
coronary artery disease.
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