The best way to get a full compliment of vitamins is to eat a balanced diet, getting them naturally is the best. Only people with specific conditions/circumstances that need an increased vitamin/mineral load should take supplements.
What are they?
Vits are organic substances and are only required in tiny amounts to help with the processes that occur in the body. Most vitamins cannot be made in the body and so must be provided by the diet. Excess doses do not necessarily lead to an improvement in body function; some can in fact be toxic in large quantities.
Characteristics…
In their absence certain bodily functions can cease or fail, they are therefore essential. Because they are organic they are readily destroyed so must be replaced on a daily basis.
Vitamins can be split into 3 groups:
· Fat Soluble - i.e. A, D, K and E. These are not excreted in the urine and can therefore be harmful in large quantities.
· Water soluble - B and C. These can be excreted in the urine
· Anti Oxidants - A, C, E and B2. These are used in our defence system. When oxidation (a natural event) occurs it can lead to tissue damage. Free radicals are the troublemakers and these are found in tobacco products, smoke and air pollutants, these all add to the oxidation process. Studies have shown that people who eat more anti oxidants are found to be less prone to heart attack, strokes, some cancers and cataracts. Anti Oxidants are found in fresh fruit, (brightly coloured ones) nuts and seeds.
