Vitamins are essential to healthy human bodies and should be consumed in small doses. All vitamins are available for consumption within balanced diets of fruits, vegetables and healthy meats, and also via supplements where a balanced diet is not present or possible.
Definition
Vitamins are organic compounds necessary in small amounts for the body to function properly. The human body cannot synthesize vitamins on its own, so it must obtain them through dietary means. Vitamins are specific to different organisms based on their dietary needs. Some animals synthesize vitamins that humans cannot and vice versa.
Vitamin Types
There are thirteen specific vitamins for the human body. These vitamins include: vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B5, vitamin B6, vitamin B7, vitamin B9, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E and vitamin K. All B-type vitamins and vitamin C are water soluble and are not stored in high quantities within the body. Vitamins A, D, E and K are fat soluble, and are more prone to accumulation within the body, increasing the risk for overdose.
Vitamin Ingredients
Vitamins are each composed of unique, single organic compounds. Vitamin A is absorbed as retinol. Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9 and B12 are comprised respectfully of thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, biotin, folic acid, and cobalamin. B vitamin compounds are found in high concentrations within meat, eggs and liver. Vitamin A is also found in high concentrations in liver, especially cod liver. Vitamins C, D, E, and K are identified as ascorbic acid, calciferol, tocopherol, and phylloquinone. Vitamins E and K are found in leafy vegetables, while vitamin C has a high concentration in citrus fruits. Vitamin D is produced by the human body given ultraviolet light such as that from the sun, but may also be consumed via fish, liver, and eggs.
Vitamin Complexes And Supplements
B vitamins are commonly included in vitamin complex supplements, usually in the form of tablets or pills. B vitamins are essential for growth and the conversion of consumed food into energy for the body. These vitamins are typically compounded into pills for those consumers who cannot reach a healthy amount within a normal balanced diet, or consumers with health conditions that may warrant the extra vitamins. While mostly beneficial, it is also possible to overdose on vitamin consumption with some side effects including heart and liver problems, nausea and vomiting. Always consult your doctor before beginning any kind of supplement regimen.
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