Vitamins: The vital helpers

Nothing works without them

Vitamine durch Obst sind lebenswichtig© Fotolia

Vitamins are involved in many metabolic reactions in our body. They strengthen our immune system and are indispensable in the formation of blood cells, cells, bones and teeth. They regulate the utilization of proteins, carbohydrates and minerals, ensure their breakdown and conversion as well as the production of energy from them. Each vitamin has a specific function in the body. Some vitamins can be eaten in stock, as they can be stored. Others must be taken continuously and regularly. There are basically two different types of vitamins: The fat-soluble and storable vitamins and the non-storable, water-soluble vitamins. The body only needs small amounts of both types in order to achieve great things. On idee für mich you can read what these vital helpers can do.

This is what fat-soluble vitamins do: An overview

Vitamin A allows us to see well and is essential for our eyes. It keeps mucous membranes and skin healthy and promotes the development of the embryo. Vitamin A is therefore an important vitamin for women during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Vitamin D strengthens bones and teeth because it ensures that calcium is absorbed from food. It is now also known as the good mood vitamin, as vitamin D deficiency can lead to low mood and even depression. Vitamin D has a special position among the vitamins because we do not only absorb it through food: we produce 80 to 90 percent of vitamin D through our skin. This only works if there is enough sunlight. This is one reason why vitamin D should be taken as a dietary supplement during the darker months of the year.

Vitamin E is a powerful helper for the immune system, it protects the body's cells from attack by free radicals and prevents diseases.

Vitamin K is involved in blood clotting and the metabolism of the bone apparatus.

What the water-soluble vitamins can do

Vitamin C is a multi-talent: it protects against free radicals, strengthens the immune system, supports the absorption of iron from food, strengthens the gums and connective tissue.

The vitamin B complex comprises eight vitamins that are essential for carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism as well as the body's own energy production. A deficiency causes damage to the skin, mucous membranes, nervous system, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal systems.

On idee für mich you can read which vitamins will help you stay fit through the winter, which juices you can use to cleverly manage your vitamin balance and much more.