Our body is the best machine made by nature. Its routine activities consist of many complex procedures put in one. The one thing our body cannot do is produce Vitamins, essential for our strength and growth.

Vitamins are nutrients that are required by our body to conduct certain essential functions. It is said that our body requires 13 different types of vitamins, which can be obtained from various food sources.

Vitamins do not emit usable energy when broken down, in helps the enzymes that  releases energy from carbohydrate, proteins and fat. They are available in plenty in our daily balanced diet so its better to eat healthy rather than pop up all the pills off the shelves.

Each vitamin has its own role to play in growth and development of our body. Vitamin A is good for eyes, Vitamin D helps strengthen bones, Vitamin E helps body produce proteins and energy.

There are two main types of Vitamins – Water Soluble and Fat Soluble.

Fat soluble vitamins are those that convert themselves to dietary fats and stored in the body, especially in the liver, since they are not required daily.

A single meal containing these items provides several weeks supply. Vitamins A,D,E and K are fat soluble vitamins. These vitamins are not lost when the food is cooked. Overdose of these vitamins can be toxic to the body and can lead to many health problems.

Unlike fat soluble vitamins, water soluble ones, dissolve in water and are not stored in the body. These vitamins travel through the body and those that do not get absorbed are eliminated during urination, hence they need to be replaced daily.

Vitamin B complex and vitamin C are water soluble. They are also easily destroyed during food storage or preparation. Hence the food items containing these vitamins need to be stored properly.

Vitamins are essential for fighting disease and curing many illnesses. Few researches have also shown its usefulness in preventing cancer, Alzheimer , ease arthritis pain and treat many other health conditions.

The Food and Nutrition Board of National Academy of Sciences has released a Recommended Daily Allowance of vitamins that are required by our body. This is so that people don’t blindly spend money stocking up on vitamin supplements believing they’ll get rid of all their ailments.

Consult your doctor and only if required take vitamin supplements.