Vitamins are essential nutrients that our body requires to function optimally. They play a vital role in energy production, boost immunity, and overall health. This guide dives into the Basic but main Vitamins A , their benefits, recommended consumption, and the results you can expect.
Vitamins Overview
Vitamin
Key Benefits
Sources
Recommended Intake
Results
Vitamin A
Vision, immunity, skin health
Carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, eggs
700-900 mcg/day
Improved vision, glowing skin, enhanced immunity
Vitamin B
Energy production, brain health, cell growth
Whole grains, meat, dairy, nuts, fortified foods
Varies by type (e.g., B12: 2.4 mcg/day)
Increased energy, improved cognitive function
Vitamin C
Immunity, antioxidant, collagen production
Oranges, strawberries, bell peppers, kiwi
75-90 mg/day
Enhanced immunity, glowing skin
Vitamin D
Bone health, immunity, mood regulation
Sunlight, fatty fish, fortified dairy
600-800 IU/day
Stronger bones, better mood
Vitamin E
Antioxidant, skin health, heart health
Nuts, seeds, spinach, sunflower oil
15 mg/day
Radiant skin, reduced inflammation
Vitamin K
Blood clotting, bone health
Leafy greens, broccoli, fermented foods
90-120 mcg/day
Faster wound healing, stronger bones
Detailed Breakdown of Vitamin A
Component
Function
Sources
Recommended Intake
Retinol
Vision, immune function
Liver, eggs, fortified dairy
Part of total Vitamin A
Beta-Carotene
Antioxidant, skin health
Carrots, sweet potatoes
Part of total Vitamin A
Detailed Breakdown of Vitamin B Complex
Vitamin
Function
Sources
Recommended Intake
B1 (Thiamine)
Energy metabolism
Whole grains, pork, nuts
1.1-1.2 mg/day
B2 (Riboflavin)
Red blood cell production
Milk, yogurt, almonds
1.1-1.3 mg/day
B3 (Niacin)
Cholesterol regulation
Fish, peanuts, mushrooms
14-16 mg/day
B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
Hormone production
Avocado, broccoli, eggs
5 mg/day
B6 (Pyridoxine)
Neurotransmitter synthesis
Bananas, poultry, cereals
1.3-1.7 mg/day
B7 (Biotin)
Healthy hair, skin, and nails
Eggs, nuts, seeds
30 mcg/day
B9 (Folate)
DNA synthesis and cell growth
Leafy greens, legumes, oranges
400 mcg/day
B12 (Cobalamin)
Nerve and red blood cell health
Meat, dairy, fortified cereals
2.4 mcg/day
Detailed Breakdown of Vitamin C Complex
Component
Function
Sources
Recommended Intake
Ascorbic Acid
Antioxidant, immunity booster
Citrus fruits, bell peppers, kiwi
75-90 mg/day
Dehydroascorbic Acid
Supports cellular metabolism
Fresh fruits and vegetables
Included in total Vitamin C intake
Calcium Ascorbate
Non-acidic form, easier on the stomach
Fortified foods, supplements
Part of Vitamin C sources
Sodium Ascorbate
Antioxidant for food preservation
Supplements
Part of Vitamin C sources
Detailed Breakdown of Vitamin D
Component
Function
Sources
Recommended Intake
D2 (Ergocalciferol)
Plant-derived, bone health
Mushrooms, fortified foods
Part of 600-800 IU/day
D3 (Cholecalciferol)
Sunlight-derived, immunity booster
Sunlight, fatty fish, fortified dairy
Part of 600-800 IU/day
Detailed Breakdown of Vitamin E
Component
Function
Sources
Recommended Intake
Tocopherols
Antioxidant, skin health
Nuts, seeds, sunflower oil
Part of 15 mg/day
Tocotrienols
Cardiovascular health
Palm oil, rice bran, barley
Part of 15 mg/day
Detailed Breakdown of Vitamin K
Component
Function
Sources
Recommended Intake
K1 (Phylloquinone)
Blood clotting
Leafy greens, broccoli
Part of 90-120 mcg/day
K2 (Menaquinones)
Bone health, cardiovascular health
Fermented foods, meat, cheese
Part of 90-120 mcg/day
Tips for Vitamin Absorption
Tip
Details
Pair fat-soluble vitamins with fats
Vitamins A, D, E, and K are better absorbed with healthy fats (e.g., avocado).
Avoid overcooking vegetables
Preserves water-soluble vitamins like Vitamin C and B-complex.
Limit alcohol and smoking
These habits deplete vitamin stores.
Include fortified foods and supplements
Ideal for restricted diets like veganism.
Vitamin Deficiency: Symptoms and Risks
Vitamin
Deficiency Symptoms
Long-term Risks
Vitamin A
Night blindness, dry skin
Increased infection risk, vision loss
Vitamin B
Fatigue, weakness, cognitive decline
Anemia, nerve damage
Vitamin C
Slow wound healing, frequent colds
Scurvy, gum disease
Vitamin D
Bone pain, muscle weakness
Osteoporosis, increased fracture risk
Vitamin E
Dry skin, weak immunity
Nerve and muscle damage
Vitamin K
Easy bruising, excessive bleeding
Bone fragility
Special Considerations for Different Groups
Group
Vitamin Needs
Details
Pregnant Women
Increased folate and Vitamin D
Supports fetal development and maternal health.
Elderly
Increased Vitamin D and B12
Maintains bone density and cognitive function.
Vegans/Vegetarians
Vitamin B12 and D supplements
Plant-based diets may lack these nutrients.
Athletes
B-complex and Vitamin C
Aids energy production and recovery.
Conclusion
Vitamins are the building blocks of good health. This guide offers insights into their roles, sources, and how to ensure optimal intake. Whether you’re managing a deficiency or optimizing your health, incorporating these nutrients into your diet will lead to tangible benefits. Plan your meals wisely and consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.