The human body requires vitamins and minerals to support a number of daily functions. A deficiency in any of the necessary vitamins or minerals can lead to any number of diseases including scurvy, nervous disorders and digestive problems. The federal Food and Drug Administration recommends various daily intakes for each vitamin and mineral that can generally be received through a balanced diet, but supplementation can generally help to reach these goals. Discuss supplements with a doctor before using them.
Antioxidants
Chemical reactions in the body and environmental toxins commonly create damaging compounds called free radicals. Free radicals cause damage to cells at the genetic level by removing important substances and are linked with the formation of cancer and other chronic diseases. This process is referred to as oxidation. Many vitamins act as antioxidants by limiting or even reversing the damage done by free radicals. Vitamins C, E and A all function as antioxidants, as does the mineral selenium.
Increased Energy
The human body breaks down the fat, protein and carbohydrates in food into small substances that can be used for fuel. The simple sugar glucose is the body's main source of energy, but specific enzymes are needed to properly use this sugar. B vitamins thiamine, riboflavin, pantothenic acid and niacin are necessary for the creation of these enzymes. When these vitamins are present, the body may be able to use the fuel received from food more efficiently.
Bone Health
Bones provide structural support and stability. Your bones are constantly being strengthened and rebuilt. Many vitamins and minerals are necessary for this complex process, including calcium, which is the main component of bones. Vitamin D, which is created when the skin is exposed to sunlight, can improve absorption of calcium and promote bone health. Phosphorus, magnesium and fluoride are other minerals essential to bone health.
Red Blood Cells
Red blood cells, called erythrocytes, carry oxygen and nutrients through the bloodstream to where they are needed in the body. These cells live an average of 120 days before they are replaced. A specialized protein in these cells called hemoglobin, which bonds to oxygen, cannot be produced without iron. To produce new red blood cells, the body needs to replicate DNA, and vitamin B-12 and folic acid are necessary in this process.
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