What are vitamins?
Vitamins perform different roles in our bodies. While some help in our daily body function, others may reduce the risk of diseases.
What are the types of vitamins?
There are two types of vitamins – water soluble and fat soluble vitamins.
What are Water Soluble Vitamins?
Water soluble Vitamins: Vitamin C and B. These vitamins are not stored in your body and have to be replenished daily. You can find these vitamins easily in fresh fruits, vegetables, and wholegrains.
What are Fat Soluble Vitamins?
Fat Soluble Vitamins: Vitamin A, D, E, K. These vitamins are stored in the body for a longer period of time. Therefore, you only need to consume small amounts of these vitamins daily. Nonetheless, these vitamins are still essential to us. When these vitamins are not in use, our body stores and preserves them in our liver and fat tissue.
What are the functions of vitamins?
Vitamins serve different functions in our body. Some of the most common vitamins we know such as vitamins C, B, and D, have functions that are essential to our body.
For instance, vitamin C helps in the growth and repair of tissues in our body, and speeds up wound healing process by forming scar tissues to protect them. Vitamin C also helps in the absorption of iron.
Vitamin B assists with red blood cell production, and help boost our energy and metabolism. It also plays an important role in building a healthy nervous system.
Vitamin D helps our body absorb and retain calcium and phosphorus, which are crucial in bone building. It also helps to control infections and reduce inflammation.
What are some signs of vitamins deficiency?
There are some common signs we can take note of. Firstly, slow wound healing. This would often point to a lack of vitamin C. Secondly, an unusual case of hair loss could also be due to a lack of vitamin B12. Lastly, if you often feel tired, it could be due to a lack of vitamin D.
What are some sources of vitamins?
The essential vitamins our body require can be obtained through a balanced and wholesome diet. However, due to busy lifestyle, certain health conditions or food restrictions, it can be challenging at times. This is where supplements come into place. While it is not recommended to replace vitamin-rich foods with supplements, it can be a good alternative.
Watch our video to learn more about the importance of vitamins and stay tuned for more health tips.