The Best Vitamins & Minerals for Your Health

The Best Vitamins & Minerals for Your Health
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Vitamins and minerals help the body in their own way, each responsible for a specific task or job that is beneficial for your body, according to MedlinePlus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Note that a deficiency in certain vitamins and minerals can cause illness, which makes it essential that you consume these supplements on a daily basis, either through rich food sources or pill form.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin, which means it is not stored in your body. It's important to have a continuous supply of it in your diet, as low levels of vitamin C in your body are related to the development of numerous health conditions such as atherosclerosis, stroke and heart diseases. Other effects of vitamin C deficiency are dry hair and slower healing of wounds, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Dietary sources of vitamin C include cranberries, oranges, cooked leafy greens and citrus fruits.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant vitamin, protecting your body from potential harm that may be caused due to free radicals. These dangerous molecules form when your body converts food into glucose to produce energy. Fortunately, vitamin E helps to prevent the formation of free radicals by eliminating them after they form to ensure that a build-up of these byproducts does not occur. Free radicals can cause health conditions such as heart disease and may enhance aging. According to MedlinePlus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Vitamin E can be found in foods such as olives, nuts and corn.

Zinc

Zinc is a mineral that helps to promote a healthy immune system, healthy reproductive system, and for healing of injuries. Zinc, like vitamin E, is an antioxidant vitamin, protecting your body from free radicals. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the richest sources of zinc include oysters, cheese, whole grains and sunflower seeds.

References

Article reviewed by Jenna Marie Last updated on: Jan 12, 2011

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