Vitamins

Here's some real food for thought, when it comes to giving your body everything it needs.

Eating a healthy, balanced diet is the ideal way to make sure you're getting all the nutrients you need. However, even the best diet is bound to have some gaps in it – and there are some nutrients, especially vitamins D and E, that are difficult to get enough of through diet alone. That’s why so many health professionals continue to recommend vitamins, minerals and other supplements to their health conscious patients.

Of course, with so many products out there, you may be wondering exactly what you should be taking to give your body the right stuff. Here is a brief rundown of the essential vitamins and minerals your body needs every day.   Remember, this is a general, basic list, so talk to your doctor or health professional to learn more about your own body’s specific needs.

• Vitamin A for eyes and skin (beta-carotene is a good substitute)
• The B vitamins – B6, B12, riboflavin, thiamine and niacin – for cell growth
• Vitamin C, a powerful anti-oxidant and immune-system booster. And yes, you need more even if you drink orange juice!
• folic acid helps your body form red and white blood cells – and prevents birth defects, if you’re a woman and happen to be pregnant
• Vitamin E, for healthy skin and more
• Iron for red blood cells – check with your doctor on this one
• Vitamin D, calcium and Vitamin K – all three work together to build your bones, which is especially important for women!
• Magnesium, a mineral that protects against heart disease, colon cancer and diabetes

Most people would rather not swallow eight or more individual pills every day, so it’s fine to take a multi-vitamin that combines most of these substances into a single dose. Just read the label to make sure you know that you’re getting everything you need!