Eating a balanced diet is essential for maintaining good health, and vitamins are an important part of that. While some vitamins, such as Vitamin A, D, E and K, are stored in the body for a longer period of time, others need to be replaced regularly as part of your daily eating plan.
Vitamin C
is one such vitamin that needs to be consumed regularly, as the body cannot store it for long. People who live in urban slums, wear clothing that covers most of their skin, or live in Nordic climates where there is little sun in winter are prone to vitamin D deficiency.Vitamin E intake alone is not related to overall cancer risk, but low serum levels of both vitamin E and selenium may increase the risk of certain types of cancer. While some children take a vitamin every day, most children don't need it if they eat a variety of healthy foods. There is conflicting evidence that vitamin C supplements benefit people who get adequate amounts from their diet. People who take blood-thinning (anticoagulant) medications may be deficient in vitamin K, but they should not change their vitamin K intake without consulting a doctor.
The benefits of taking vitamin B9 supplements may only be seen in people who are initially low in the vitamin. The active form of vitamin D promotes the intestinal absorption of calcium and phosphorus and influences bone mineralization. Vitamin A deficiency is frequently found among young children in many poor and malnourished populations. Every part of the body needs oxygen to work properly, so B vitamins play a very important role.
Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency in growing children include rickets (long, soft, bowed legs) and flattening of the back of the skull. Vitamin E is an antioxidant and eliminates free radicals and may be responsible for an anti-neoplastic effect. Studies also suggest that vitamin C may reduce the risk of cognitive decline, improve blood vessel function and lower blood sugar levels, but high-quality studies are needed before definitive conclusions can be reached.
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