Do you often find yourself sick and tired regularly? Your diet may be the cause of the problem. Many patients often think that illnesses are a result of viruses and infections, but the truth is that we are what we eat. Not getting enough vitamins can cause nutrient deficiencies and related sicknesses. Taking a bunch of vitamins may seem like a chore, but they do so much good for your health.
What are vitamins?
Before we head into the importance of vitamins, we need to have an understanding of what vitamins are. Vitamins are quite similar to each other, but they are different at the same time. Vitamins are compounds that can help build your body cells, create energy, help strengthen tissues and bones, and so much more. Without the essential vitamins needed for your body, you can develop chronic health diseases, stunted growth, and so on.
Vitamins cannot be generated by our body, but they are important for the healthy functioning of our body cells. Essential vitamins needed by the body include:
- Vitamins K and A
- Vitamins D and E
- Vitamins B and C.
The best and most effective way to get essential vitamins is by eating healthy foods.
What are minerals?
Minerals are important for growth and development. They are considered organic compounds. They help your metabolic processes and keep the body running. Some minerals are needed to be consumed in large quantities, while some are needed in tiny amounts. Here are three main reasons for stocking your home with essential vitamins and minerals.
Vitamins are essential for growth and development.
One important nutrient needed by our body is vitamin D. This vitamin helps to keep our bones strong, growth, and development. Lack of vitamins can cause stunted growth, fatigue, bone pain, and muscle weakness. Studies have also shown that vitamin D deficiency has been linked to cancer, stroke, birth defects, and other severe health problems. In your diet, you should increase your intake of vitamin D. Vitamin D can be gotten through exposure to the sun or by taking the right supplements. Foods rich in vitamin D include milk, orange juice, bread, and cereals.
Certain minerals can boost your cognitive development.
Iron is an important mineral needed by the body, and it can help carry oxygen throughout the body. Getting enough iron helps increase your resistance to diseases and infections. Iron deficiency is commonly associated with what we commonly know as anemia. Foods rich in iron include seafood, lean beef, liver, whole grain bread, cereals, and iron-fortified grain products.
Vitamins and minerals can help boost your immune system.
Vitamin C, D, and the mineral zinc are known to promote immunity, and this can help you resist colds and other seasonal infections. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that is beneficial to your bones, skin, and connective tissue. The best sources of these vitamins are fruits and vegetables, especially tomatoes, potatoes, strawberries, and citrus juice.