Vitamins, by definition, are substances that are naturally found in plants and in animals. And because we eat plants and consume the meat of animals, we in turn get these vitamins and take them into our bodies. Vitamins are use basically as a support to the various functions of the body. Each vitamin, however, has its own function and role in the body system.



There are two kinds of vitamins. The water-soluble and the fat soluble. The water-solubles are those that are easily absorbed by the body because they do not need acids to digest them. There is no chance that the body will get too much or have an overdose of these vitamins. The reason behind this is the fact that these vitamins are removed from the body through our urine.

One example of a water soluble vitamin is C, which is otherwise called as ascorbic acid. Vitamin C helps the body fight problems such as cold and cough. It also helps in the absorption of iron in the body.

Fat soluble vitamins on the other hand need bile acids to be absorbed by the body. When absorbed, these vitamins are stored as body fat and are only utilized when called for. Vitamin A is one example of a fat-soluble kind.

Vitamin A plays a role in the development and maintenance of our eyesight. Called retinol or retinoic acid, it also maintains healthy glowing skins, repairs tissues in the body and assists in the growth of bones. Vitamin A is also a known antioxidant that fights off free radicals in the body. Sources of this vitamin are egg yolks, carrots, fish and liver.

Vitamin D on the other hand plays a significant role in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus in the body. This is the reason why it is associated with bone growth and strengthening. It helps prevent bone problems such as osteoporosis and osteomalacia. In addition to sunlight, known sources of this vitamin is fish and eggs.

Vitamin E or otherwise called tocopherol is also an anti-oxidant that helps in the proper flow of blood in the body. Like other vitamins, it also helps in the repair of tissues. It also plays an important role in blood clotting. Vitamin E can be found in spinach, broccoli, cabbage and tomatoes.

Another known vitamin is Vitamin B1, which is part of the Vitamin B complex. Also called thiamine, this vitamin is a vital component of the enzyme system and is a participant in cellular reaction. It is also important in the maintenance of the nervous system functions especially the heart and the muscles around it. It also promotes the body's metabolism and supports the body's growth and development.

Another important function of this vitamin is the restoration of deficiencies caused by conditions such as overactive thyroid, infection, pregnancy, burns and even alcoholism. This is the reason why this vitamin is often recommended for people who is undergoing alcohol reduction program, women who have recently gave birth, those who are older than 55 years old, and patients who have liver disease or prolonged diarrhea.

In addition, it is also known to help in the balancing of emotions, reducing the incidence of depression and fatigue. With thiamine, there is also an improvement in the appetite and in the mental alertness of the person. Vitamin B1 can be found in meat, fish, in nuts and in whole grains and cereals.