There are over 40 essential vitamins that our body needs for proper health and nutrition. However, we only need these vitamins in small amounts as they are part of the nutrition group called micro-nutrients.
Vitamins do not provide the body energy which instead is provided by carbohydrates, proteins and fats. The function of the vitamin is to generate chemical reactions of between these nutrients and minerals in our body. In fact, no vitamin is considered complete without multi mineral supplements being included in their formula.
The reasons the majority of people need to take vitamin supplements is because our body has a difficult time maintaining the proper balance of vitamins and minerals. For people who have a lot of stress or exercise strenuously on a regular basis the need for vitamin and mineral supplements is increased. Often our diet is not properly balanced to provide us all the vitamins and minerals that our body has expended and needs.
Over 40 different essential vitamins and minerals are used by our body to produce the chemical reactions that give us the ability to covert carbohydrates to energy, keep our skin smooth and our vision clear. Taking vitamin supplements is not sufficient to maintain our body's chemical reactions; we still need to eat properly balanced meals.
Vitamin Abuses
The two most common abuses of vitamins is overdosing and spending too much for the supplements.
Our body is only able to absorb what it needs and does not have the ability to stockpile vitamins that are water soluble. These excess vitamins are flushed through the kidneys and out in the urine. Taking more vitamins and minerals than the recommended daily allowance will only result in discolored urine that gets flushed away down the drain. Vitamin B has long been championed as an energy booster as its primary function is to covert carbs into energy. However, too much Vitamin B will just turn your urine a bright yellow as it passes through your system.
Certain vitamins are fat soluble and an over dosage gets stockpiled in your organs until you need them. These fat soluble vitamins are A, K and D. All vital vitamins you need for proper health if taken in the appropriate amount. Excess amounts build up and can cause health problems, including cancer. Many studies have documented the dangers of taking excessive vitamin A, including osteoporosis and toxicity.
How To Avoid Overspending On Vitamins
The most expensive vitamins don't always ensure you get the purest minerals. Likewise, the cheapest doesn't always mean you get an inferior product. Often you are just paying for a brand name and your body does not care what brand you choose.
Vitamins come in many forms including tablets, capsules, liquid and chewable. If you have a sensitive stomach or can't easily swallow pills then the chewable type will be a good alternative. Many adults still take chewable vitamins that are in designs and shapes appealing to children.
If brand name is important to you then by all means choose vitamins that you feel comfortable taking. Otherwise, save a few bucks and get off-label brands from a reputable source.
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