What exactly are vitamins?

Vitamins are organic compounds that the body needs for metabolism. There are 13 vitamins, one of which the body can produce itself in the summer months with the help of sunlight - namely vitamin D. The other vitamins must be obtained from food. The other vitamins must be obtained from food . The daily vitamin requirement varies from person to person and depends on factors such as age, gender, weight, state of health and physical exertion. There are also special circumstances such as pregnancy or illness.

Is our vitamin supply sufficient?

Studies show that most Germans cover their mineral and vitamin requirements. The normal diet contains most nutrients in sufficient quantities. However, the situation is sometimes critical when it comes to folate, also known as folic acid, calcium, iodine and vitamin E. Vitamin D deficiency is also widespread, even in summer.

How high is our vitamin requirement?

This varies from person to person, depending on weight, age, mental and physical stress and, of course, overall physical condition. The German Nutrition Society has set reference values for a desirable intake. If you consume these amounts and are healthy, you will get enough nutrients.

Can vitamin tablets cover our vitamin requirements?

Yes, because some life circumstances such as illness, pregnancy, breastfeeding, poor diet or advanced age make it difficult to cover our requirements through a normal diet. Food supplements can help to supplement the general diet with specific nutrients and thus maintain health.

People often warn against taking too high a dosage ...

In practice, this is not a problem. The food supplements sold contain quantities that pose no risk if the recommended intake is adhered to. However, it is not advisable to buy products that come from Holland, for example, and can be ordered via the Internet. These often contain banned substances and excessive dosages.

Should you just buy vitamins from the drugstore?

You should first consider which vitamins are actually useful to cover your vitamin requirements and seek advice. For example, vitamin B12 is highly recommended for vegansin particular, but also for many vegetarians . Plant-based products only contain traces of it. And these are not sufficient, even if it is often falsely claimed otherwise.