Both vitamins and minerals are important for your body to function properly. There are 13 different vitamins that are necessary for us humans. It is A, C, D, E, K and eight different B vitamins.
If you eat a varied diet, you often get the necessary vitamins and minerals without having to think about it. But sometimes you may need to take supplements. For example, if you are vegan, pregnant or exercise extra hard.
Here we have collected our products for you who need a natural supplement of vitamins.
What are vitamins?
Vitamins are organic compounds that our bodies need to function properly. They are essential nutrients, meaning we must get vitamins through our diet because the body cannot produce them on its own. The only exception is vitamin D, which can be produced in the body with the help of the sun's UV rays during the summer months. However, it is important to supply the vitamin through diet or food supplements for the rest of the year.
Fat soluble vitamins
Vitamins are usually divided into two main groups: fat-soluble vitamins and water-soluble vitamins. Vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E and vitamin K are fat-soluble vitamins that dissolve in fat and can be stored in the body's tissues.
It is important not to overdose on fat-soluble vitamins because they can be stored in the body and lead to toxic effects.
Water soluble vitamins
Vitamin C and the eight different B vitamins that exist are water soluble. This means that they dissolve in water and are transported through the body. These are more difficult to overdose on as any excess is often lost through the urine. An exception is vitamin B12, which can be stored in the liver for several years.
13 vitamins your body needs
vitamin A (retinol)
This vitamin is important for your vision, especially night vision and also for the maintenance of healthy skin and mucous membranes.
There are eight different B vitamins, these are:
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) which is important for, among other things, the conversion of carbohydrates into energy and necessary for normal heart function.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) which, among other things, is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins.
Vitamin B3 (Niacin) which, among other things, helps produce energy.
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid) which, among other things, is involved in the production of hormones and cholesterol.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) which, among other things, is needed for your protein metabolism and to regulate hormone activity.
Vitamin B7/vitamin H (Biotin) which, among other things, supports skin, hair and mucous membranes.
Vitamin B9 (Folic acid or Folate) which, among other things, is essential for DNA synthesis and cell division but also for normal tissue growth in pregnant women.
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) which, among other things, is crucial for the production of red blood cells in the body.
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
This vitamin is an antioxidant that, among other things, is needed for a normally functioning immune system and collagen formation.
This is the only vitamin the body can absorb through the skin with the help of the sun. Among other things, it helps to regulate the body's calcium and phosphorus balance.
Vitamin E
This is an antioxidant that protects the body against free radicals.
This is a vitamin that is important for blood clotting and bone health, among other things.
Vitamins as dietary supplements
Many foods contain vitamins and most of us get enough by eating a varied and balanced diet. For example, fruit and vegetables are often rich in, for example, vitamin C (citrus fruits, peppers, berries) and vitamin A (carrots, sweet potatoes). Milk, yogurt and cheese are often good sources of calcium and vitamin D (if fortified). Fatty fish is rich in vitamins and omega-3.
Sometimes, however, dietary supplements are necessary. For example, if you do not get enough of a certain vitamin, if you are pregnant, vegan or if you exercise a lot. It is of course important not to over-consume, as this can have a negative effect.
It is best if you consult a doctor if you suspect that you are deficient in any vitamin. You will then be offered a blood test that shows if you are lacking in any vitamins or minerals, which makes it easier to find the right nutritional supplement for you.
You can read more about Elexir Pharma's dietary supplements by clicking on the respective product.