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What Are Vitamins Needed For?

Vitamins are organic substances that have no energy or caloric value in themselves, but are an essential element of nutrition which our body needs for a number of reasons.

  1. Metabolism

    • Vitamins are primarily needed for most of the chemical changes in cells by which energy is provided for various processes and activities.

    Conversion

    • Fats and carbohydrates are also essential nutrients. Vitamins are needed to convert them into energy.

    Bone Formation

    • Though they are not components of bone, some vitamins are needed in forming bone tissues.

    Growth

    • Vitamins "team up" with other nutrients for proper growth of all body cells. They are essential during pregnancy and for the normal development of children.

    Systemic Support

    • Because of their metabolic activity, vitamins aid the body's systems, like the immune and nervous system.

    Prevention

    • Vitamins are needed to prevent disease or the worsening of ailments. Working with other nutrients, they assist in healing and repair of tissues.

    Additional Work

    • Beta carotene (a form of vitamin A), and Vitamins C and E also serve as antioxidants.

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