Even though you probably already know that vitamins are good for you, do you know what exactly vitamins are and why they are essential to the functioning of our bodies? Vitamins are nutrients that your body needs in order to fight off diseases and function properly. Since your body cannot produce vitamins on its own, your diet is essential for getting the proper amount of vitamins.
There are 13 different vitamins that are all essential for the function of your body, and they are divided into two different categories: fat-soluble and water-soluble. Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in your fat cells, which means they require fat in order to be absorbed. Water-soluble vitamins dissolve in water, meaning that they are not able to be stored by your body and must be replenished daily. Here is a list of all of the vitamins your body needs.
Fat-Soluble Vitamins
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Vitamin A: Vitamin A is found in orange-colored fruits and vegetables and dark, leafy greens such as kale. It produces retinal, which your body uses to sense light and prevent night blindness. It is also important for your teeth, bones, skin, reproduction, and a healthy immune system.
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Vitamin D: Vitamin D can be found in fortified milk and dairy products, cereals, and sunshine. It is stored in your bones and is needed for proper absorption of calcium.
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Vitamin E: Vitamin E is found in fortified cereals, seeds, nuts, and leafy green vegetables. It acts as an antioxidant and helps to protect your cell walls.
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Vitamin K: Vitamin K is found in turnips and beet greens and dark, leafy green vegetables. It is needed in order for your blood to clot properly.
Water-Soluble Vitamins
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Vitamin B1: Also known as thiamin, vitamin B1 can be found in whole grains, liver, nuts, and seeds. It is part of an enzyme that is needed for energy metabolism and helps to promote your nerve function.
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Vitamin B2: Also known as riboflavin, vitamin B2 is found in whole grains and dairy products. It is also part of the enzyme needed for energy metabolism, as well as normal vision and healthy skin.
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Vitamin B3: Also known as niacin, vitamin B3 is found in meat, fish, poultry, and whole grains. It is also part of the enzyme needed for energy metabolism and promotes nervous system and digestive system health. Niacin is also good for your skin.
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Vitamin B5: Also known as pantothenic acid, vitamin B5 is found in meat, poultry, and whole grains. It is also part of the enzyme that is needed for energy metabolism.
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Vitamin B6: Also known as pyridoxine, vitamin B6 is found in fortified cereals and soy products. It is also part of the enzyme needed for energy metabolism. Additionally, it is essential for the creation of red blood cells.
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Vitamin B7: Also known as biotin, vitamin B7 is found in fruits and meats. It is also part of the enzyme needed for energy metabolism.
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Vitamin B9: Also known as folic acid, vitamin B9 is found in leafy vegetables. It is also part of the enzyme needed for energy metabolism and is essential for the creation of DNA and new cells.
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Vitamin B12: Also known as cobalamin, vitamin B12 is found in fish, poultry, meat, and dairy products. It is part of an enzyme that is needed to make new cells and is important for the function of nerves.
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Vitamin C: Also known as ascorbic acid, vitamin C is found in citrus fruits and juices, and red, yellow, and green peppers. It is an antioxidant, part of an enzyme for protein metabolism, important for your immune system health, and aids in iron absorption.
