Vitamins - Why Our Body Really Needs Them?

It is a well known fact that Vitamins and Minerals are required for the proper functioning of the body. Ironically, the body lacks the ability to produce most of these essential vitamins and minerals and therefore must rely on a proper diet and supplements in order to get the required amounts.

Vitamins are basically organic compounds that are naturally found in most foods that we eat and even in the form of vitamin supplements. There are over 13 different vitamins that are required to perform crucial functions such as protecting the body against infections and disease, aiding in the metabolic process and elimination of waste products from the body.

A healthy body that has all the essential vitamins is able to create the enzymes and hormones that help control blood pressure, heart rate and glucose levels.

Each of these vitamins have different recommended daily allowances depending on a person's age and current health levels. For example, women who are pregnant, children, elderly people and men have different nutritional requirements and hence require varying amounts.

It is very important to have a balanced nutritious diet to maintain optimal health. If we consume the wrong foods high in fats and sugars, they will have adverse effects on our health and body.

Insufficient quantities of vitamins may lead to a vitamin deficiency. These deficiencies may not be that noticeable in the initial stages but if remained untreated, can lead to serious health problems over time.

Poor eating habits are the main cause of vitamin deficiencies. A nutritious and well balanced diet is a must for optimal health but very few people actually eat one. Today junk foods that are rich in fat and sugar have replaced healthy foods so people are at a greater risk of developing a vitamin deficiency.

Providing detailed information on nutrition and the right foods can help prevent these deficiencies. Generally, the negative effects of a poor diet can be seen when the body begins to gain weight which is one of the fist visible signs of a deficiency.

There are several health problems associated to vitamin deficiencies. For example, insufficient amounts of vitamin D can lead to weak and deformed bones. A Vitamin C deficiency can lead to weakness, fatigue, muscles aches and sometimes even lead to bleeding gums. Inadequate amounts of Vitamin E can actually destroy red blood cells in the body making it more vulnerable to disease and infections. In severe cases, an overall vitamin deficiency can even lead to death.

The adverse effects of vitamin deficiencies can be counteracted to some extend by vitamin supplements. However, a blood test is the best means of finding out whether one has a vitamin deficiency or not.

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