Wellness: Insight on Vitamins and Minerals

n apple a day keeps the doctor away! Or how about Vitamin A, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, and Vitamin C keeps the doctor away! Vitamins and minerals are found in all of our food and they are essential to keeping us healthy. But what do you really know about vitamins and minerals? Here are few basic questions about vitamins and minerals answered.

Why do we need vitamins and minerals?

Vitamins and minerals are substances that our body uses in order to complete necessary chemical reactions that keep you thriving. From keeping your bones strong to your hair soft, vitamins and minerals are a necessity for well-being. Having a lack of vitamins and minerals can lead to a number of different illnesses. Missing certain vitamins and minerals can cause both physical and psychological ailments.

What are the different types of vitamins and minerals?

There are tons of different vitamins and minerals that your body uses. From vitamin C to potassium and everything in between, each one is super important to your health. For a complete list of vitamins, we like to reference the Harvard Medical School Listing of Vitamins for a comprehensive overview.

How much do I need?

The amount of vitamins and minerals an individual needs depends on various factors such as age, gender, and overall health. Some people are more susceptible to certain deficiencies as well. Thus, it is difficult to determine exactly how much one needs. (Harvard Medical School gives a general outline of how much each gender needs of specific vitamins). One thing for sure though is that too much of a good thing becomes a bad thing in the case of many vitamins. So, keep track of how much you are consuming especially if you are taking supplements.

Where do we get them from?

Most vitamins and minerals one needs comes from the food we eat. Specifically, whole foods are a great source. Some of our favorite whole foods are kale, eggs, squash, and fish. Some individuals choose to take vitamin and mineral supplements too. While this works well for many, it is important to research your vitamins fully before buying because supplements do not have the same FDA requirements as food.