Vitamins are organic compounds that the human body cannot produce and therefore must acquire through the diet. To help maintain good health, humans need 13 different vitamins. These include: vitamin A, the various B and D vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin K. Deficiencies of these essential vitamins can cause the body to enter a diseased state. Deficiencies of different vitamins manifest themselves with differing diseased states. For example, night-blindness is linked to vitamin A deficiency, while Rickets is linked to vitamin D deficiency.
The relationship between foods and maintaining health has been recognized for centuries. For example, in 1747, Dr. James Lind discovered that citrus fruits prevented scurvy. Some stores of vitamins within the body can last well over a year, as is the case with vitamin B12. Others can deplete more rapidly-lasting only a couple of weeks. A vitamin can be either fat or water soluble. Water-soluble vitamins are not stored in the body. Often they need to be replenished more frequently. Fat-soluble vitamins, however, are stored in the body. Excessive intake of fat-soluble vitamins can cause toxicity in the body. Fat-soluble vitamins include A, E, D and K.
Today there is debate among experts over the benefits of vitamin supplements. Some believe supplements must be taken in conjunction with the daily diet. This is because many foods are processed and artificially enriched-which can reduce the nutrient level naturally found in these foods. Moreover, even fresh fruits and vegetables are picked prematurely and shipped long distances before arriving on grocery shelves. For this reason, some physicians recommend taking vitamins.
The US RDA is a standard set forth by the Food and Nutrition Board of the National Academy of Sciences National Research Council to help Americans determine a proper level of daily vitamin intake. It is important to note, however, that these levels are sometimes quite modest- intended to meet the nutrient needs of already healthy individuals. For some, these amounts may be lower than optimal. For example additional amounts of vitamins may be needed during illness. Consequently, the Board has also set two other values: the tolerable upper intake levels (UL) and the adequate intakes (AI). The UL values are designed to help people avoid over consumption. AL values are established when there is not enough scientific evidence to set an RDA.
It is important to note that different developmental stages and physiologies may require varying vitamin intakes. Children, adolescents, women, and men all have differing needs. Consulting a specialist is the best way to determine personal vitamin needs. Moreover, some supplements may negatively interact with prescription drugs. Therefore, all supplemental intakes should be discussed with a physician.
A proper balance of vitamin intake can enhance personal health and increase energy levels. These essential nutrients aid in the regulation of many bodily functions and can prevent illnesses. Their value must not be underestimated.
Ruth Stattmiller enjoys writing about the benefits of vitamins. Learn more at http://www.myvitaminguide.com/.
limousine airport Glendale Heights .. Lockport Chicago limo O’HareUnverified reports claiming that unprotected, intentional sun exposure is necessary... Read More
Creatine ? The most researched performance enhancing nutritional supplementDoes creatine... Read More
Whey proteins drinks, especially shakes, are available in a variety... Read More
Numerous studies and surveys have consistently shown that a majority... Read More
Myocardial infarction is a technical term used to describe an... Read More
Before you read the rest of this article I want... Read More
What Is Nitric Oxide (NO)?Nitric oxide (NO) is produced by... Read More
MSM is a wonderful supplement with a low toxicity rating... Read More
Part 1:A "better nutritional program" means the introduction of foods... Read More
You've probably been eating blueberries since you were a little... Read More
Every minute of every day the cells of our... Read More
Did you know that most store bought vitamins and minerals... Read More
It is clearly evident that hyaluronic acid in its oral... Read More
In July of 1995, the United States Department of Agriculture... Read More
When you buy acid amino arginine you can look forward... Read More
Turmeric, in all honesty is not a vitamin, but it... Read More
Although creatine offers an array of benefits, most people think... Read More
There are so many different whey protein powder products on... Read More
BROCCOLI Good Healthy Food, for Natural Healing, Good Health and... Read More
ZMA is a scientifically designed anabolic mineral formula containing zinc... Read More
"Anybody who tells you that disease has only one cause,... Read More
Most people are becoming more health conscious. Many of the... Read More
The benefits of whey protein are so numerous and apply... Read More
Your Immune system Needs BalanceTaking an immune system supplement daily... Read More
You probably know that ladies who are planning on having... Read More
Lincoln Stretch rentals Willowbrook ..Fish oil is oil derived from the tissues of fatty... Read More
"They", the "experts" all say how important vitamins are -... Read More
Ecdysterone is a powerful compound that can help to maximise... Read More
When you buy acid amino arginine you can look forward... Read More
Benefits of using Vitamin A products:Retinol is pure and active... Read More
Extensive research studies show that taking vitamin and mineral supplements... Read More
Did you know that most store bought vitamins and minerals... Read More
The food is the raw material for the body. Minerals... Read More
BROCCOLI Good Healthy Food, for Natural Healing, Good Health and... Read More
Nutritional supplements can play a key role in the health... Read More
Discount Supplement ? what is it?Discount supplement is a term... Read More
Fat Loss Supplement ? what is it?What is a fat... Read More
A 2002 study reported, funded by the Swiss National Science... Read More
I have frequently heard alcoholics who are in early recovery... Read More
Herbal supplements have become hugely popular over the years, and... Read More
Turmeric, in all honesty is not a vitamin, but it... Read More
Since coral calcium is one of he hottest products on... Read More
A healthier diet is very much in the news these... Read More
Is there an alternative to statin drugs such as Lipitor... Read More
Proper nutrition is fundamental to optimizing your health. By eating... Read More
As with most nutrients and minerals, zinc is often ignored... Read More
Health Supplement ? what is it?So what is a health... Read More
Since the release of a book called" beat chronic fatigue... Read More
Use of herbs and herbal therapies has been an integral... Read More
There are a number of pros and cons for vitamin... Read More
Nutritional Supplements |