Vitamin is defined as any of a group of organic substances essential in small quantities to normal metabolism, found in minute amounts in natural foodstuffs or sometimes produced synthetically (Dictionary.com, 2012). We need vitamins and minerals for our bodies to function properly. By eating a variety of foods, we can often supply our bodies with the necessary vitamins it needs, but in some cases it is necessary to take a vitamin supplement as well. By eating a good diet in conjunction with the right vitamin supplements we ensure that we will consume our daily nutritional requirements (Nuble, 2012).
There are fifteen essential vitamins that our bodies need on a daily basis. These vitamins are divided into two categories; this is called vitamin classification. Vitamin classification is based on how each vitamin acts with in the body. Vitamins are classified into two groups, fat-soluble vitamins or water-soluble vitamins. Fat-soluble vitamins are absorbed through lipids, our fats. Fat-soluble vitamins absorb through fat globules, known as chylomicrons, they then travel through our lymphatic system into the small intestines, then into our blood circulation and then they are stored for long periods in our tissues and organs (Water Soluble Vitamins vs Fat Soluble Vitamins, 1999). Water-soluble vitamins are absorbed by our tissues through water; they are easily dissolved in water and therefore are not stored in our bodies for long periods and need to be replaced daily.
Fat-soluble vitamins include Vitamin A, D, E, and K. These nutrients can be provided by eating fish, liver, low-fat dairy products, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, cabbage and cauliflower. These vitamins have a variety of functions and benefits. Vitamin A helps with bone and tooth development, cell division and provides moisture to our eyes, skin and lungs. Vitamin D helps our bodies with weight management by helping our metabolism as well
Cited: Water Soluble Vitamins vs Fat Soluble Vitamins. (1999, October 10). Retrieved from Medicine Net: http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=10736 Fat Soluble Vitamins: Possible Side Effects. (2011). Retrieved from Fit Day: http://www.fitday.com/fitness-articles/nutrition/vitamins-minerals/fat-soluble-vitamins-possible-side-effects.html#b Dictionary.com. (2012). Retrieved from vitamin?s=t: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/vitamin?s=t University of Rochester. (2012). Retrieved from Vitamins: Too Much of a Good Thing?: http://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=1&ContentID=2115 Nuble, C. J. (2012). The Importance Of Vitamins To Your Body. Retrieved from Health Guidance: http://www.healthguidance.org/entry/4588/1/The-Importance-Of-Vitamins-To-Your-Body.html