Vitamins are responsible for carrying out various functions in the body, such as growth and development, protection against infections and maintenance of body’s structure and immune system. Some vitamins act as anti-oxidants which prevents oxidation of cells and formation of free radicals thus delay the process of ageing and onset various chronic diseases. Vitamins are also required for production of various enzymes and hormones.
Vitamins are present in small amount in many foods. They can not be synthesized by the body, hence must be supplied by the diet. Though vitamins are required in very small quantities, but they are very essential for maintaining good health and well-being of the body.
Types of Vitamins
- Water soluble vitamins
- Fat soluble vitamins
Water soluble vitamins are not stored in the body and ingested quantities in excess of requirements get removed from the body through urine. That is why it is important to consume these vitamins in right quantity everyday. Water soluble vitamins are not stable when exposed to heat, air and light and get destroyed easily. All B-complex and vitamin C are of these kind.
- Vitamin B1 or Thiamine
- Vitamin B2 or Riboflavin
- Vitamin B3 or Niacin
- Vitamin B5 or Pantothenic Acid
- Vitamin B6 or Pyridoxine
- Vitamin B7 or Biotin
- Vitamin B9 or Folic Acid
- Vitamin B12 or Cyanocobalamin
- Choline
- Inositol
- Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Fat soluble vitamins are stored in the liver and any excess quantity eaten can be harmful for the body as these are not excreted out from the body. These are more stable than water soluble vitamins and less likely to get lost whole cooking. Vitamin A, D, E, K come under fat soluble category.
- Vitamin A or Retinol
- Vitamin D or Sunshine
- Vitamin E or Tocopherol
- Vitamin K
