VITAMINS FOR OPTIMAL HEALTH

Vitamins have crucial roles in all functions of your body. They assist in optimal health by supporting the immune system, mental functioning, the nervous system, wound healing, the formation of cells and aiding in metabolism, among many other roles. MedlinePlus notes that your body needs 13 vitamins for proper functioning; these include vitamins A, C, D, E, K and the B vitamins. When it comes to obtaining these essential nutrients, your best sources usually come from the foods you eat. Your doctor or health care provider can recommend the correct values to help ensure your vitamins are working for you.

Vitamins A, C and E

Vitamins A, C and E have roles as both antioxidants and essential vitamins. They work as antioxidants to protect your body from free radicals that can damage cells and cause health problems. Vitamin C, for example, helps prevent free radical damage caused by cigarette smoke and pollution. Antioxidants also play roles in promoting health, such as in reducing cardiovascular disease risk. As essential vitamins, vitamins A, C and E perform specific functions outside their roles as antioxidants. Vitamin E, for example, promotes cellular health, helps your body use vitamin K and assists in mental health.

Vitamins D and K

Vitamins D and K have various important functions in maintaining optimal health. Your body receives some of these vitamins from natural processes, although dietary sources also exist. Vitamin K forms in your body through intestinal bacteria in the large intestines, and Vitamin D forms when your skin is exposed to sunlight. Vitamin K makes proteins for blood clotting, prevents hemorrhaging and internal bleeding, and helps maintain healthy tissues and bones. Vitamin D builds strong bones and teeth, regulating the metabolism of minerals and supporting vision.

B Vitamins

The B vitamins include vitamins B1, also known as thiamine; B2, riboflavin; B3, niacin; B5, pantothenic acid; B6; B7, biotin; B12; and folate. These essential vitamins have many roles in your body, including assisting each other to help your body use the energy you receive from certain foods. Other functions of B vitamins include mental functioning, improved circulation, utilization of proteins, maintaining the nervous system and fighting infections. Vitamins B6, for example, promotes healthy nerves and tissues, supports your immune system and assists in the production of antibodies, helps in fat and carbohydrate metabolism, assists in mental functioning and has roles in how your body uses sodium.