Vitamins & Supplements – Do we need them??

Good morning J here! Today in the basement I am giving my take on vitamins and supplements. This is all based on my professional opinion so take from it what you will. Enjoy!
So, what are vitamins and what are they used for?
Vitamins are a group of substances essential for normal cell function, growth and development.
There are 13 essential vitamins. That means they are needed for the body to function. They are:

• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin D
• Vitamin E
• Vitamin K
• Vitamin B1 (thiamine)
• Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
• Vitamin B3 (niacin)
• Pantothenic acid
• Biotin
• Vitamin B6
• Vitamin B12
• Folate (folic acid)

Vitamins are grouped into two categories:

• Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the body”s fatty tissue.
• Water-soluble vitamins must be used by the body right away. Any left over water-soluble vitamins leave the body through the urine. Vitamin B12 is the only water-soluble vitamin that can be stored in the liver for many years.

Dietary supplements are very vital to the body because they act somewhat as your insurance policy on vitamins and minerals that you may not be receiving on a daily basis. Many of us eat some of the same meals throughout a work week and follow a routine much like someone following a workout routine. Because of this, it is imperative that you make sure you are supplying your body with the minerals needed to support your daily activities.
For most of us, a simple multi-vitamin a day in addition to a fruit and vegetable supplement will ensure that you are at least getting your daily recommended value. I recently recommended the oh so popular Flintstone vitamin for a client because she doesn’t like swallowing the horse pills as she put it. The point is, find a vitamin brand that you like and make it a part of your daily diet routine. Just because you feel fine does not mean that your body is getting everything that it needs.
In reference to minerals, the body is made to self preserve itself so it will get its minerals in someway shape or form even if it means eating away at your own muscle mass, bone marrow, etc. I personally think about the fruit and vegetables that I don’t like or consume on a regular basis and purchase those particular supplements from the local vitamin shop or your place of choice. You can find a plethora of these in various combinations. If you know you don’t eat spinach, broccoli, or carrots, ask the representative in the shop to point you to the supplements that primarily focus on those particular veggies. The same goes for fruit. You can even purchase a fruit and veggie supplement if you know your lacking in both arenas.
As for protein and other supplements, purchase these based on your individual fitness goals. Protein is a vital compound used to repair and build muscle tissue. However, if the intensity of your workout regiment does not warrant the use of a protein supplement, it could do more harm than help. Keep in mind, the body stores any energy that is not used as fat. This includes protein and other sources of energy that we consume on a daily basis. Ask your fitness professional if your current activity level requires additional protein, because your current diet may be supplying you with what you need already.
In conclusion, vitamins, fruits, vegetables and minerals are all needed for healthy living and a strong immune system. If you know your diet is biased towards a particular group of foods and chances are it is, then a simple trip to your local vitamin store might just be a good idea. I promise you, your body will love you for it…