Vitamins, which are important for normal growth and development, are found in foods, but certain vitamins like vitamins D and K are also made by the body. The 13 vitamins needed by the body are vitamins A, C, D, E, K and the B vitamins, which include thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, vitamin B-6, vitamin B-12 and folate.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A plays a role in vision, immune system regulation and reproduction. This vitamin also preserves the skin and the linings of the eyes, respiratory, intestinal and urinary tracts.
Thiamine
Thiamine, also referred to as vitamin B-1, is necessary for the body to convert carbohydrates into energy and for normal functioning of the muscles, heart and nervous system.
Riboflavin
Riboflavin, also referred to as vitamin B-2, is needed by the body to convert carbohydrates into energy, for body growth and red blood cell production.
Niacin
Niacin, also known as vitamin B-3, is necessary for the proper functioning of nerves, skin and the digestive system. This vitamin also assists the conversion of food into energy.
Pantothenic Acid and Biotin
Pantothenic acid and biotin are needed by the body for metabolism and body growth. Pantothenic acid, also referred to as vitamin B-5, breaks down fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Biotin also breaks down carbohydrates as well as proteins.
Vitamin B-6
Vitamin B-6 is necessary for immune system function, normal nerve function and red blood cell formations. This vitamin also helps the body metabolize proteins.
Vitamin B-12
Vitamin B-12 plays a role in metabolism, red blood cell formation and central nervous system maintenance.
Folate
Folate is necessary for normal cell formation, to prevent anemia, to maintain a normal level of the amino acid homocysteine and to prevent pregnancy complications such as birth defects.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is needed by the body to help heal wounds and grow body tissue. This vitamin is also forms collagen, which is necessary to build structures in the body like blood vessels, ligaments, tendons, skin and scar tissue. Vitamin C blocks the effects of free radicals that play a role in aging and certain health conditions such as cancer and heart disease.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium. This vitamin also regulates the amounts of calcium and phosphorus in the blood.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E plays a role in red blood cell formation as well as protecting the body from damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin E also helps the body use vitamin K.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K is used by the liver to make substances necessary for blood clotting.
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