Vitamins

Vitamins are sometimes hard to understand. Which ones are most important? How much is enough to benefit us? Can too much harm us? As my husband became more interested in taking vitamins, I decided that I would do a little research and see what role each vitamin plays. Of course, there are too many vitamins and nutrients to discuss in a single post, so I researched some of the most important ones to share.


Everyone knows that calcium is important in bone protection. But did you know that calcium alone will not help prevent osteoporosis. Calcium can only work as well as your body is able to metabolize and absorb it. Calcium needs the help of vitamin D, vitamin k, and magnesium. Be aware of the type of calcium supplement you are taking because without its supporting vitamins it may not be doing its job. If your body does not get enough of its needed calcium it may begin extracting from your bones and teeth. Some good non-dairy sources of calcium are whole wheat products, broccoli, kale, dark leafy greens, canned fish, legumes, okra, nuts, and seeds.


Omega-3 fatty acids have been becoming more popular over the last few years. They are known as the “good fats”. “Studies have shown that Omega- 3 fatty acids can have a positive on or prevent serious degenerative illnesses like heart disease, hypertension, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and more. The anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3’s are especially beneficial to menopausal women in preserving heart, breast and bone health, and even help keep our moods on an even keel.” (Dr. Marcel Pick). Good sources of omega-3 are found in seafood, hempseed oil, flaxseed, walnuts, canola oil, eggs, pumpkin seeds. If these are foods you don’t eat, you can take omega-3 supplements. However, research the product before you buy it because you could wind up burping fish all day.


Vitamin B-6 has many important functions in the body. One of its most important function is that is aids the stomach to produce hydrochloric acid. The production of hydrochloric acid is needed for the body to absorb calcium. Vitamin B-12 and Folic acid are also important in protection of our bones.


The last two vitamins are more common to households, vitamin C and A. Vitamin C plays an important role in building and maintaining body tissues. It also provides our immune system with important protection. If you feel a cold coming on, it is suggested that you take extra vitamin C to help boost your immune system. Vitamin C also protects our bodies from scurvy. Vitamin A improves our eyes ability to adjust to light as we go inside and out. Vitamin A also provides moisture for our eyes, skin, and mucus membranes.