Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamins are organic compounds that are crucial for normal growth, metabolism, and overall health. They are typically classified into two categories:

1. Water-Soluble Vitamins:

   • Vitamin C: Important for immune function, skin health, and antioxidant protection.
   • B Vitamins: Includes B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), B9 (folate), and B12 (cobalamin). These vitamins are involved in energy metabolism, brain function, and red blood cell formation.

2. Fat-Soluble Vitamins:

   • Vitamin A: Essential for vision, immune function, and skin health.
   • Vitamin D: Important for bone health and calcium absorption; synthesized by the body through sunlight exposure.
   • Vitamin E: Acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage.
   • Vitamin K: Crucial for blood clotting and bone health.

Minerals

Minerals are inorganic elements that are necessary for various physiological functions. They are divided into two categories:

1. Macro Minerals (needed in larger amounts):

   • Calcium: Essential for bone health, muscle function, and nerve signaling.
   • Potassium: Important for maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions.
   • Magnesium: Involved in over 300 biochemical reactions, including muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and bone health.
   • Sodium: Necessary for fluid balance and nerve transmission.

2. Trace Minerals (needed in smaller amounts):

   • Iron: Vital for oxygen transport in the blood and energy metabolism.
   • Zinc: Important for immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis.
   • Copper: Involved in iron metabolism and the formation of red blood cells.
   • Selenium: Acts as an antioxidant and supports thyroid function.