Vitamins and Minerals are essential for our bodies to stay healthy. They help support normal growth and development, as well as helping to protect us from disease. Some vitamins play an important role in the development of our immune system, which helps defend us against illnesses and infections.
Vitamins can be found in many foods we eat, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. There are also many vegan foods that are rich in vitamins, such as nuts and seeds.
In addition to these food sources, some people may need additional supplements to meet their daily recommended requirements.
Calcium and Bone Health
Vitamins & Minerals also help our bodies stay strong by supporting bone health. Calcium is an important mineral for bone health and can be found in dairy products, leafy greens, and some vegan foods such as fortified plant milk and tofu.
Getting enough calcium is especially important for young people and post-menopausal women who are at higher risk of developing osteoporosis.
Examples of other minerals related to bone health include magnesium and vitamin D which can be found in fortified cereals, mushrooms, soy milk, and some fishes.
A Balanced Diet
It is important to make sure we are getting enough of the essential vitamins and minerals from our diets as these nutrients play a key role in maintaining our overall health. Eating a balanced diet including plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy proteins can help ensure that you are receiving all the vitamins and minerals you need.
Also, speaking to your doctor or a nutritionist can help determine if any additional supplements may be necessary.
Taking steps to ensure that you are getting enough vitamins and minerals can help keep your body healthy and strong so you can continue to live an active, vibrant life.
Importance of Vitamin C
The importance of vitamins and minerals goes far beyond simply maintaining our overall health. For example, Vitamin C is an essential nutrient needed to prevent a condition known as scurvy which was a common illness in sailors and pirates during the Age of Sail.
Vitamin C helps keep our immune system strong and is also necessary for healthy teeth, bones, skin, and connective tissue development. It can be found in fruits such as oranges and kiwis, as well as fortified plant milk and breakfast cereals.
Benefits of Iron
Iron is also an essential mineral, found in many animal and vegan sources such as red meats, tofu, spinach, and lentils. Iron deficiency can lead to a variety of health conditions including fatigue and difficulty concentrating.
It is especially important for people with certain medical conditions or those who are pregnant to get their iron levels tested regularly.
Benefits of Magnesium
Magnesium is one of the most important minerals in our body as it helps regulate hormone production and nerve function.
Magnesium can be found in nuts, legumes, dark leafy greens, and some grains. Make sure you are getting enough of these essential vitamins and minerals to keep your body healthy.
In Summary
Vitamins and minerals are essential nutrients needed to keep our bodies strong and healthy. Eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet can help ensure that you are receiving all the recommended daily requirements of these essential vitamins and minerals.
Also, certain medical conditions or those who may be pregnant may need additional supplements to meet their needs. Examples of important vitamins and minerals for bone health include calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, and iron – all of which are important components to consider when planning a healthy diet.
Taking steps to ensure you are getting enough of the essential vitamins and minerals can help keep your body functioning at its best.
Sources: THX News, British Nutrition Foundation & Osteoporosis.
