Analysis of Vitamins

Vitamins are organic nutrients that are required in small amounts within the body for proper functioning, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. There are 13 different vitamins, according to Medline Plus. Each vitamin has a different job in the body. Animals and humans absorb vitamins through the plants that they eat, according to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Some people choose to take multivitamins, while others eat an abundance of fruits and vegetables to get their daily vitamins.

Considerations

• The only three vitamins that the human body can produce are vitamins D, B and K, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Vitamins do not provide the body with energy, unlike fats, carbohydrates and proteins.

Function

• Vitamins are chemical partners to enzymes that take part in cell production, tissue repair, metabolism and other vital functions, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Vitamin A is used for bone development, vision, reproduction and healthy skin. Vitamin C functions as an anti-oxidant and helps produce bone protein and collagen. Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium and aids normal bone growth. Vitamin E is an anti-oxidant that prevents cell membrane damage.

Sources

• Foods containing vitamin A include dairy products, liver and fish oil, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. B vitamins are used in the body for converting blood sugar into energy. Sources of B vitamins include nuts, fortified cereals and oatmeal. Sources of vitamin C include fruit juices, sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts. Milk is an excellent source of vitamin D. Sources of vitamin E include vegetable oils, mangos and nuts.

Types

• Vitamins are either water-soluble or fat-soluble, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Fat-soluble vitamins include vitamins A, D, E and K. These vitamins are absorbed in a way similar to the way the body absorbs fat. These vitamins are stored in the liver and are used very slowly by the body.

  Water-soluble vitamins include B complex vitamins and vitamin C. Water-soluble vitamins are used by the body extremely quickly, while excess amounts are eliminated from the body through urine.

Expert Insight

• The Harvard School of Public Health suggests taking a multivitamin every day to insure individuals get their daily recommended vitamins. Taking a vitamin D supplement will also help promote healthy bone growth through calcium absorption.