It seems like new knowledge is discovered about something daily. And the fasinating subject of Vitamins is no different. Please keep reading to get more news about Vitamins, what they are, how they act in the body, and what types to buy?



Vitamins are important molecules that can allow our bodies to function properly. For instance, some vitamins work as catalytic molecules: they bind to important enzymes, and, as cofactors, work to make molecular reactions happen. Vitamins can also work as substrates: they are acted upon by different enzymes in the body, so that when they are broken down, their individual subunits can help the different body organs work better.

Vitamins can also act as co-enzymes of molecules, moving from one enzyme to another.

We can obtain vitamins through the food that we eat, although we no longer get the amounts we used to, due to intesive farming techniques and depleted soils. The latest technology has allowed scientists to produce some vitamins in the laboratory. These vitamins can be packaged individually as pills, or they can be packed with other vitamins into a multivitamin tablet that people can use to supplement their diets as they see fit. Research has also shown that we all have a different recommended daily intake or need of essential vitamins, a group of thirteen important molecules that our bodies must get in order to function properly and not die.

Vitamin A belongs to the retinoid vitamins, and is soluble in fat. Vitamin A can be found in many orange foodstuffs, such as carrots and squash. Current experts recommend a daily dose of nine hundred to three thousand micrograms of Vitamin A. An overdose of Vitamin A can result in a problem known as hypervitaminosis A, which can cause people to have yellow or orange skin. Many people who lack Vitamin A suffer from night blindness resulting in some doctors recommending that children consume carrots as part of their diet so that these children's eyes can develop properly.

Vitamin B1, or thiamine, is a water-soluble vitamin that is part of the B-complex group of vitamins. A debilitating disease called beriberi results when we take less than 1.2 milligrams of Vitamin B1 a day. So far, there is no upper limit for Vitamin B1 consumption.

Riboflavin, known also as Vitamin B2, is another B-complex member and a water-soluble vitamin. Like the rest of the B-complex vitamins, riboflavin functions in keeping the integrity of the immune system. It has so far no upper limit for consumption, although taking less than 1.3 milligrams of Vitamin B2 a day can result in a disease called ariboflavinosis.

Another B-complex vitamin is niacin also known as Vitamin B3. This is water soluble and an immune system enhancer, niacin also functions in growth in young children. The allowable daily dose for Vitamin B3 is from sixteen to thirty-five milligrams; below this range, pellagra can result.

The water-soluble Vitamin B5, or pantothenic acid, is a B-complex member that not only functions to allow growth and immune system development, but can contribute to strength and energy as well. We are all required to consume at least five milligrams of Vitamin B5 each day; lower consumption can result in paresthesia, a numbness in certain extrematies of the body.

Pyridoxine, or Vitamin B6, also has actions in proper growth and development, especially in young children. A water-soluble B-complex vitamin, pyridoxine must be consumed at a minimum of 1.3 to 1.7 milligrams a day; consumption of the vitamin beyond the hundred milligram mark is considered an overdose, and can result in some eye or perception disorders. Conversely, anemia can occur when the proper amounts of pyridoxine aren't consumed via the diet.

Biotin, is another water soluble B-complex vitamin. Although no biotin-deficiency related diseases have been found, we are required to consume a minimum of thirty micrograms of Vitamin B7 every day.

Folic acid - Vitamin B9 - an extremely important Vitamin for developing children and pregnant mothers. This B-complex member should be consumed at a level of about four hundred to a thousand micrograms a day, if it is not, then, severe birth defects may result in pregnant mothers.

Cyanacobalamin, or Vitamin B12, functions in proper growth and development. About 2.4 micrograms of this water-soluble B-complex vitamin must be consumed each day. Anemia often results from Vitamin B12 deficiency.

Vitamin C or the vitamin ascorbic acid is a highly important water-soluble essential vitamin that can be found in many fresh fruits and vegetables. Only ninety to two thousand milligrams is needed be consumed each day by some people or kidney damage can result. That said, some individuals consume manth thousands of milligrams without any such problems. Vitamin C deficiency results in scurvy, which is manifested in cracked skin and a damaged immune system.

Vitamins D, E, and K are the same so far that they are all fat soluble vitamins. Vitamin D supports the body's skeletal system by working in conjunction with calcium; it also supports the immune system. At least fifteen milligrams of Vitamin E should be consumed each day; Vitamin E contributes to cell regeneration and wound healing, and is often credited with bringing life and youth to skin. Lastly, Vitamin K aids in wound healing and blood clotting.

All these vitamins can be obtained from a balanced diet that is filled with lean meats and fresh fruits and vegetables. Always consult with your doctor on what vitamins you should be taking in higher amounts. With a healthier diet, you can have a better lifestyle, with thanks to essential vitamins that keep your body going.

That's how things stand right now. Keep in mind that any subject can change over time, so be sure you keep up with the latest news.