Health specialists and nutritionists identify many types of vitamins. Those named after the first five letters of the English alphabet are the most important for the functioning of the human body. According to experts, “vitamin A helps form and maintain healthy teeth, bones, soft tissue, mucous membranes, and skin” (Vitamins, n.d., para. 7). An individual gets it from beans and traditional types of meat such as livestock, fish, and poultry (Best sources of vitamins? 2021). Vitamin A deficiency results in the deterioration and stunting of the mentioned tissues and organs, the development of severe conditions in them, and even vision problems. There are several subtypes within the vitamin B category; vitamin B12 stands out for its critical role as a helper in maintaining metabolism, blood cell formation, and the central nervous system (Vitamins, n.d.). Its food sources are the same as for vitamin A, which are meats except for beans. The adverse consequences of vitamin B12 lack in the body are mental disorders, including depression, and physical illnesses like frequent headaches and inflammation in the oral cavity.
The functions of vitamin C are as broad as those of the previous two discussed. It is “an antioxidant that promotes healthy teeth and gums” (Vitamins, n.d., para. 10). It serves as a necessary element in iron absorption and tissue maintenance and restoration (Vitamins, n.d.). Citrus fruits possess a high content of vitamin C, and not including them in eating habits leads to bad teeth, brittle hair, and dry skin. Vitamin D is a rare component in terms of food, and its presence in the body is vital as this substance accelerates the absorption of calcium (Vitamins, n.d.). One needs to eat oily fish to get it, and avoiding such dishes can result in low bone density and even rickets. The primary function of vitamin E is similar to that of B12, forming blood cells (Vitamins, n.d.). Its sources are all edible seeds and nuts, and not eating those causes muscle weakness and deterioration of the nervous structure.
Getting professional advice on a suitable and healthy diet and proper and efficient supplementation is the best approach for one to meet their vitamin needs. Medical workers such as doctors and nutritionists are the ones who can provide advice on balanced healthy eating habits (Familydoctor.org Editorial Staff, 2020). They and public health websites also can teach one how to interpret a supplements fact panel.
References
Best source of vitamins? Your plate, not your medicine cabinet. (2021). Harvard Health Publishing.
Familydoctor.org Editorial Staff. (2020). Vitamins and minerals: How to get what you need. Familydoctor.org.
Vitamins. (n.d.). MedlinePlus. Web.