Are
you unsure which vitamins are in which foods? If so, it's time to change
that because your health could be in jeopardy!
A vitamin is an
organic substance or chemical found in food that is absolutely necessary for
normal growth, health, and bodily functions. Vitamins help the body to
resist infection, as well as to increase mental alertness.
It is best to ingest
our nutrients through whole foods, but very often we need to supplement our
diet. If needed, choose natural, whole food vitamins. These
vitamins are made from a natural food source and are absorbed by the body much
better than chemically produced vitamins.
There are 14
different vitamins that fall into two distinct categories. They are fat-soluble
and water-soluble. Today, I will focus on fat-soluble vitamins and their
functions.
Fat-soluble vitamins
such as Vitamins A, D, E and K are stored in your body fat and liver if not
used immediately for digestion. Excess fat-soluble vitamins can accumulate in
your body and reach toxic levels.
The following is a
description of each fat-soluble vitamin:
Vitamin A - Can be found in liver,
dairy, and cod liver oil. Helps our cells reproduce normally, stimulates our
immune system, and is required for the formation of protein, bone, and growth
hormone. Aids in fighting infection, PMS, urinary tract infections, and
acne. May reduce harmful cholesterol levels, and reduce the risk of heart
attacks. Vitamin A may prevent night blindness, improve eyesight, and
strengthen our teeth, bones, hair and gums.
Vitamin D - Can be found in cod
liver oil, egg yolks, and butter, but the majority of vitamin D can be
supplemented by sunlight exposure. Helps our bodies to absorb calcium and
vitamin A. If taken with vitamins C and A, it can help to prevent colds.
Without vitamin D, phosphorus and calcium cannot build strong bones and
teeth. Also aids in preventing migraine headaches and osteoporosis.
Vitamin E - Look for Vitamin E in
wheat germ oil, nuts, seeds, vegetable oils, whole grains, egg yolks and leafy
green vegetables. Aids in PMS, cold sores, increased energy, and wound
healing. Helps keep our skin looking young, aids oxygen in traveling
throughout our bodies, prevents and dissolves blood clots, and helps wounds
heal faster. Also aids in lowering blood pressure, minimizing leg cramps,
and in helping nerves convey messages faster.
Vitamin K - Found in leafy green
vegetables. Vitamin K is needed for proper bone formation and blood
clotting. Helps the body transport calcium.
Proper nutrition is
the key to a long and healthy life. Make wise food choices each and every
day to maintain the healthy lifestyle that we all aim for!
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Nothing on this site
is a recommendation as to how to treat any particular disease or health-related
condition. You should not use this site as a substitute for professional
medical advice. For serious ailments, or if symptoms persist, you must see a
medical professional. You should not stop taking prescribed medication without
consulting your doctor.
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