Can We Prevent Illness and Disease by Taking Vitamins?

Although vitamins cannot put an end to all suffering, they are very beneficial to one's health. There is much controversy among medical professionals on the level of effectiveness of vitamins and minerals. However, it is known that vitamins do, to some degree, improve physical health and prevent certain conditions. They should never be depended upon as a sole source of nutrition or medication, but it is true that vitamins can assist in preventing disease and illness.

Cancer

• According to Prevention magazine's "Healing With Vitamins: The Most Effective Vitamin and Mineral Treatments for Everyday Health Problems and Serious Disease," half of cancer cases could be prevented with the incorporation of certain vitamins. Vitamins C, E selenium, beta-carotene and folic acid work to protect the body against cancer. Vitamin C protects cells and maintains a healthy immune system. Vitamin E and selenium offer additional protection of cells, with selenium protecting the interior of cells and vitamin E protecting the exterior. Beta-carotene aids in slowing the progression of precancerous cells and can even reverse cell damage. Folic acid, or vitamin B9, protects cells from cancer.

Depression

• Depression can be associated with vitamin deficiency, and supplementation can be helpful. B vitamins keep emotions healthy and have a positive effect on depression. Severe deficiency in vitamin C can also contribute to depression. Vitamin C boosts the immune system, which is often weak in a depressed person.

Aging

• Free radicals are harmful molecules in the environment that steal electrons from the body and cause it to age. These free radicals are found everywhere in the environment, including in sunlight and pollution. They are impossible to avoid completely.

Osteoporosis

• Osteoporosis is the breakdown and weakening of the bones that can lead to fractures. In order to build and maintain bone density, calcium is a must. In addition to providing calcium, vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption. Magnesium is necessary for vitamin D to become active in the system to assist calcium absorption. These vitamins and minerals work together for bone health and the prevention of osteoporosis.

Hair Loss

• The average person loses about 100 hairs per day. If hair loss exceeds this number, especially in women, vitamin supplementation can help. The body will not grow new hair without iron. Iron is imperative for healthy hair growth, but it must be paired with vitamin C for maximum absorption. Biotin, folate and zinc are other nutrients that need to be present in the system in order to keep hair growing regularly.