Vitamins, minerals and water do not provide energy but are essential to the healthy functioning of the body.
Vitamins
are organic substances that do not contain energy for the body but are essential, because they are part of the metabolism of fat, carbs and protein. The body needs 14 vitamins for processes, including bone formation, protein synthesis ,blood clotting and more. There are two major classification of vitamins: water soluble and fat soluble.
The structure of fat soluble vitamins causes them to be transported and stored with lipids.
Vitamin A, D, E, K are fat-soluble vitamins, and because these vitamins are stored in the body it’s not necessary to continually ingest large amounts of them. A small daily intake of them is recommended. Over consuming can lead to toxic effects. The recommended intakes of vitamins are listed in the picture above.
The B vitamins and vitamin C are water-soluble. These vitamins are not stored in the body and therefore must be consumed daily. The water soluble vitamins can be excreted from the body throughout urinary output. Recommended intakes of vitamins are listed in the picture above.
Antioxidant vitamins are hypothesized to counteract the effects of aging, decrease the developing of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Studies continue to explore the potential health benefits of the antioxidants. Because of the toxic effects from overdose, avoid over-consuming of these vitamins . Vitamin A, C and vitamin E are highly touted antioxidants.
The vitamins and minerals recommended intake can be reach by taking vitamin and mineral supplements. A million of dollars are spend on vitamin and mineral supplements every year. Some people think, that if you take vitamin pills by the handful, you don’t have to bother watching what you eat. Think again! An orange or apple contains around 1500mg. of vitamin C plus are known to be anti-allergenic, some are anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral– and you’d have to take a mega – dose supplement to achieve just that 1500mg. of vitamin C. A good diet reach on different foods is always the best way to reach your daily vitamins need.
Minerals
are inorganic elements that serve a lot of functions in the human body.
Functions, dietary sources, and recommended intakes of minerals are listed above.
Calcium and iron are the minerals that we usually under-consume. Sodium on the other hand is a mineral that many people over-consume. Proper diet reach on variety of foods is crucial for healthy lifestyle.
Water
is considered an essential nutrient because of its role in the normal functioning of the body. Water constitutes 60% of the total body weight and creates the environment in which all metabolic processes occur. Water is necessary in regulating temperature and transporting substances throughout the body.3.7 L.-day for men and 2.7 L.-day for women is the recommended intake. Individuals that exercise and environmental conditions may increase the need for water.
The food label is a great source of information about the vitamins and minerals content of the foods we eat.