vitamins & minerals

There are 12 essential vitamins that are vital and must be obtained from the diet to maintain optimum health.

The water soluble vitamins B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin, B6 (pyridoxine), pantothenic acid, niacin, biotin, folic acid (folate) & B12 (cobalamin) require water to be dissolved, absorbed and stored in the body.

The Fat soluble vitamins A, D, E & K are vitamins that require fat to be dissolved, absorbed and stored in the body.

Each of the 12 vitamins is an essential part of a healthy diet and healthy body. . Supplementing your diet with the necessary vitamins and minerals may prevent nutritional deficiencies when the diet itself does not adequately provide all the essential nutrients. A word of caution, excessive doses of Vitamins A, D, Niacin, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin C can be toxic and cause nutritional disorders. It is important to seek a qualified health practitioner when considering vitamin or mineral supplementation.

There are also 14 essential minerals that the body requires to maintain it’s vitality.

Each of the essential minerals have specific functions that the body depends upon. Some minerals regulate the water and acid-alkaline balance in the body while other minerals are required for a strong and healthy skeletal and nervous system

Minerals are categorized as a macronutrient or a micronutrient. Macronutrients such as sodium, chloride, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, are required in relative large amounts while micronutrients or trace minerals such as iron, zinc, copper, manganese, molybdenum, selenium, iodine, and fluoride are required in small quantities.

Not all minerals are easily eliminated from the body and could cause toxicity. Again, it is important to consult a qualified health practitioner when considering mineral supplementation.

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