Vitamins Supplements to Compliment a Healthy Diet

A vitamin is defined as an organic compound required by an organism in limited amounts as a vital nutrient, as these are not produced by the body in sufficient amounts. These vitamins must be usually obtained from the diet. However in certain cases, the diet may lack certain vitamins and hence vitamin supplements should be in taken to cater to the needs of the body.

Vitamins are classified by their biological and chemical activity. Vitamins are an indispensable element for the normal growth and development of an organism. They have many biochemical functions which makes it an integral element in the proper functioning of the human body. Some have hormonal functions, some act as antioxidants and others as precursors for enzyme co-factors.

Vitamin A, B1, C, D, B2, E, B12, K1, B5 B7, B6, B3, and Vitamin B9 are the various vitamins usually needed by the body. The deficiency of these vitamins can lead to many diseases like beriberi, pellagra, scurvy and rickets. There are mainly two reasons for the cause of this deficiency disease. The lack of the vitamin in the diet or due to a disorder that hampers the vitamin absorption by the body. It’s always better to obtain these vitamins from a balanced diet containing all the elements in the required proportion.

Factors such as the amount of minerals in the soil where the plant is grown and the availability of sunlight may result in lower amounts of minerals in the food intake. Poor food choice is another factor. In these cases, taking dietary supplements is the only way to keep your body healthy. A dietary supplement provides the body with nutrients which are unavailable in the diet. Taking Vitamin supplement is the preventative method to safeguard your health and maintain your immunity.

Custom vitamins may be a multivitamin or single supplements. Multi vitamins are required by the human body on a regular basis and single supplement contains just one vitamin or mineral. Custom vitamins are prepared to meet individual needs. Their intake depends on the individual person and their particular dietary needs. Both Multivitamins and custom vitamins have their own advantages and disadvantages. Balanced diet and exercise are more important than supplements. They should be used to compliment healthy diet and good habits and not to compensate for poor eating and a shabby lifestyle.

Over intake of vitamin supplements can have a bad effect on your body. So vitamin supplements should be only a method to provide your body with additional vitamins which are not available in usual diets. Balanced diet and regular exercise should be the prime focus.