Our bodies require a variety of vitamins and minerals to get the essential nutrients they need to function properly each day. Most people will get these nutrients from eating a balanced and varied diet, but you can also take extra vitamin and mineral supplements to boost certain levels of a particular nutrient. Where appropriate, you should seek advice about taking supplements, for example if you have a deficiency of a certain vitamin or mineral.
In this blog, we will be looking at the different vitamins and minerals our bodies need, as well as where we can get them from and what they do.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A helps our immune systems work properly, keeps our skin healthy and helps with vision in dim light. Foods that contain a good source of vitamin A include: cheese, oily fish, eggs, carrots, sweet potatoes, mango and apricots.
B Vitamins and folic acid
There are many different types of Vitamin B that can improve energy production and improve the body’s immune system. From Thiamin, also known as vitamin B1, to vitamin B12, these key nutrients can be found in a whole variety of foods. From meat and eggs to vegetables such as broccoli and potatoes, B vitamins are a crucial group of nutrients our bodies need.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C has a number of important functions, including helping to keep cells, skin, blood vessels and bones healthy, as well as helping with wound healing. Foods that contains a good source of vitamin c include fruit and vegetables such as oranges, strawberries and broccoli, sprouts and potatoes.
Vitamin D
Helping to regulate the amount of phosphate and calcium in our bodies, vitamin D is needed to keep our teeth, bones and muscles healthy. Foods that contain a good amount of vitamin D include egg yolks, red meat, liver and fortified foods such as fat spreads.
Vitamin E
Found in a range of foods including nuts and seeds, wheatgerm and olive oil, vitamin E will help to maintain healthy eyes and skin, as well as strengthening the immunes system to fight off illness and infection.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K helps wounds heal in the correct way and is needed for blood clotting. It can be found in vegetable oils, leafy greens and cereal grains.
Calcium
As well as helping to strengthen bones and teeth, calcium also regulates muscle contractions. It can be found many different foods including milk, cheese nuts, soya and leafy vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage.
Iron
Important for the function of red blood cells which carry oxygen around the body, iron can be found in foods such as meat, nuts, beans and dried fruits such as apricots.
As well as these vitamins and minerals, there are many others that are required for the normal function of the human body. Here at Vitamin Buddy, we want to ensure you’re getting the vitamins you need, which is why we provide a range of supplements to support a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Take our free quiz to find out the optimal supplement plan for you, or get in touch to speak to our dedicated team!