Vitamins (derived from the words Vital and Amines) are the complex organic substances that are essential in varying quantities to the metabolism and overall health of most animals. Different combinations of vitamin types are present in minute quantities in most food products. Some vitamins are also produced by the body, and others can be manufactured synthetically. It has been proven that the human body needs an appropriate level of the various types to function at optimum levels. A vitamin deficiency can result in many serious disorders, some of which are detailed below. Various vitamin "formulas" in the form of "daily multiples" have been marketed to meet the unique health and wellness needs of men and women.
Water-soluble vitamins are easily dissolved in water and
pass through the human body relatively quickly. Fat-soluble
vitamins are stored in the liver and fatty tissues, and are
eliminated much more slowly than water-soluble vitamins.
Because fat-soluble vitamins are retained in the body for
extended periods, they generally pose an increased risk for
toxicity than the water-soluble vitamins when taken in
excess. Maintaining a normal, well-balanced diet will not
lead to toxicity in otherwise healthy individuals, however,
taking vitamin supplements that contain mega doses of
vitamins A, D, E and/or K may lead to toxicity.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin, contributes to overall
eyesight quality, aids in the ability to focus in dim
light, and nightvision quality. Vitamin A is also involved
in the formation and maintenance of healthy skin, hair, and
mucous membranes. In addition, it is necessary for proper
bone growth, tooth development, reproduction and for the
development of epithelial cells (that line any opening to
the body e.g.; nose, throat, lungs, mouth, stomach,
intestines and urinary tract). Vitamin A can be found in
eggs, milk, carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, fish oil,
liver (pork, lamb, chicken, turkey or beef), butter,
broccoli, apricots, nectarines, cantaloupe, and orange or
yellow vegetables or fruits. The deficiency of vitamin A
can cause two major disorders like: night blindness and
drying of skin.
Vitamin B
Vitamin B, a water-soluble compound, is a actually a
complex of different vitamins including: B1, B2, B6, B12,
niacin, folic acid, biotin and pantothenic acid. These B
vitamins are very important in metabolic activity and in
facilitating the production and transport of red blood
cells (which carry oxygen throughout your body). They also
help your body with protein and energy production.
Higher concentrations of vitamin B are found in leafy green
vegetables, seafood, beans, peas, citrus fruits, whole
grains (such as wheat and oats), poultry, meats, eggs and
dairy products (like milk and yogurt). Certain strains of
bacteria in our large intestine also produce some members
of the B-complex family. A deficiency of vitamin B can lead
to the disease "Beri Beri", cracked lips, weak muscles,
malformation of red blood cells, stalled normal growth and
nervous system disorders.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble,
antioxidant vitamin that is vital to the production of
collagen, a protein that supplies structure to bones,
cartilage, muscle, and blood vessels. It is important for
keeping body tissues, such as gums and muscles in good
shape and it helps in the rapid healing of wounds. In
addition, vitamin C protects the fat-soluble vitamins A and
E as well as fatty acids from oxidation.
Vitamin C can be found in citrus fruits (lemons. oranges,
etc.), cantaloupes, strawberries, tomatoes, broccoli,
cabbage and in other fresh fruits and vegetables. A
deficiency of vitamin C results in poor skin, depressed
healing capabilities, and can lead to a disease called
Scurvy which results in bleeding in the gums, easy
bruising, clusters of coiled hair on the arms and legs,
joint pains, muscle deterioration, and a host of other
health issues..
Vitamin D
Vitamin D, a fat-soluble vitamin, regulates bone formation
and the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the
intestine. It also helps to control the transport of
calcium between bone and blood, and vice versa. Vitamind D
is critical for the development and maintainance of strong
bones and teeth.
Vitamin D can be found in fish liver oil, egg yolks, milk
and other dairy products. The human body also produces
vitamin D in the presence of sunlight or ultraviolet
light.
A deficiency of vitamin D can lead to weakened bone
structure and bowed legs (typically in developing
children). An excess of the compound can result in loss of
appetite, weight loss, nausea, headaches, depression and
kidney deposits in the kidneys.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E, a fat-soluble vitamin, is essential for the
control of oxidation in body tissues, formation of red
blood cells, and the prevention of body tissue breakdowns.
It protects the lungs from polluted air, maintains body
tissue, and can be found in whole grains (such as wheat and
oat), wheat germ, leafy green vegetables, sardines, egg
yolks, nuts, bread, cereals and seeds. A deficiency of this
vitamin can lead to many diseases such as cancer, diabetes,
heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease.
I have tried many different brands of muliple vitamin products. I have found that formulas tailored specifically for men better meet the unique needs of a male constitution. In addition to containing the recommended vitamin dosages, they also typically contain other minerals, herbs, etc. that work to improve male-centric issues around the prostate, cardiovascular support, and sexual function (yes, there are supplements that can help).
** Lately I've been obtaining my
vitamins from an online online health and wellness
supplement company called Vitapal. I have been impressed with the
quality of their vitamins in terms of formula makeup
and body retention. Many of the cheap multis
are difficult for the body to break down
efficiently and end up being lost through body
excretions. Give Vitapal a try.
**
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