In the previous blog, I was able to introduce the concept attributed to Hippocrates, “Food as Medicine” (400 BC). I further highlighted the different nutrients food may provide the body through our diet. If you are reading this blog, I recommend that you first visit my previous blog to gather more background information (Blog – “Food as Medicine,” October 30, 2022).
Now let me get down to business. Included in the list of the seven major nutrients the body needs to stay nutritionally balanced are vitamins. Vitamins are organic compounds that can be referred to as micronutrients. They are considered micronutrients because the body requires them in small amounts; therefore, it is imperative to know what the Recommended Daily Amount (RDA) is as it pertains to vitamin intake. Knowing this important piece of information could become critical to moving the marker from vitamin deficient to vitamin sufficient. I implore that you speak with your local health care provider for a personalized checkup.
There are thirteen (13) essential vitamins that provide the body with a host of demonstrated benefits. These are divided into two distinct categories: fat-soluble vitamins and water-soluble vitamins.
1).Fat-soluble vitamins are dissolved in fats. When unused, they can be stored within the tissues for future needs. There are four types of fat-soluble vitamins: Vitamins A, D, E, and K. Once again, because fat-soluble vitamins can be stored, overconsumption is harmful to the human body.
2).Water-soluble vitamins are easily dissolved in water, absorbed, and immediately used by the body because they cannot be stored. Therefore, excessive water-soluble vitamins found within the body will inevitably be escorted to a designated portal of exit. The water-soluble vitamins are Vitamin C and eight (8) B vitamins: Vitamin B1 (thiamine), Vitamin B2 (riboflavin), Vitamin B3 (niacin), Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), Vitamin B7 (biotin), Vitamin B9 (folate), and Vitamin B12 (cobalamin).
On the one hand, we observe vitamins that the body stores; on the other, we observe vitamins that the body cannot store for future usage. Interestingly, the role vitamins play within the human body supports multiple processes. In fact, vitamins not only help normal metabolism, cell regulation, human growth, and development, but some vitamins may help the body to fight off or resist infections, while others might help the body to get energy from foods. These are just a few listed among other roles. The key ingredient in all of this is balance. A balanced consumption of essential vitamins within our diet that meets the Recommended Daily Amount (RDA) leads to improved health benefits and longevity. Before she passed away, my grandmother once told me, “Too much of one thing is not good.” I didn’t understand what she meant until I researched vitamins. Vitamins are good, and a balanced variety within our diet is recommended, but persistent daily overconsumption of vitamins external to a balanced diet – being consumed without a medical recommendation by a licensed practicing doctor, can increase the risk of health complications. (SIP Grandma!).
Please stay tuned for part two of this blog; I will list the foods we can obtain these vitamins from and their benefits to human health.
Join the journey and make steps of wellness today!
Rico