Essential vitamins
There exist 13 essential vitamins: A, B (8 categories), C, D, E and K.
- Vitamin A impacts vision, the immune system, skin health, growth and development.
- The vitamin B family (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B8, B9 and B12) has a global impact on energy, proper cardiovascular function, the nervous system, pregnancy and skin.
- Vitamin C promotes the health of our body’s cells, nervous system and immune system, plus it contributes to the absorption of iron and helps to heal wounds.
- Vitamin D works primarily at improving bone health. It regulates the body’s calcium and phosphorus levels by increasing their absorption in the intestine.
- Vitamin E contributes mainly to blood coagulation, in addition to protecting cells.
- Lastly, vitamin K is essential to blood coagulation and facilitates the binding of calcium in bones, while at the same time contributing to the health of blood vessels, tendons and cartilage.
Although dietary supplements may be recommended when vitamin deficiencies are identified, it’s important to underscore the importance of obtaining these vitamins naturally through a balanced and healthy diet.
Multivitamins
As these are consistently gaining in popularity, let’s talk about them! There are multivitamins for all ages, sexes and health situations.
- For example, in babies and children, greater emphasis is placed on the intake of calcium, iron and vitamin D.
Teenagers require more calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, fibre, vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin D than younger children.
- Multivitamins meant for women contain more iron, because women lose some during menstruation.
- In pregnant women, women who wish to conceive (within 3 months) and women who are breastfeeding, a higher dose of folic acid is advisable because it helps to decrease the risk of neural tube defects in the fetus. It is also recommended to continue taking folic acid once the baby is born. Further recommendations include calcium, iron and vitamin D. Did you know that your pharmacist affiliated with Accès pharma can prescribe prenatal multivitamins? All you need to do is schedule an appointment.
In men who aren’t fans of sweet potatoes, carrots, squash and other vegetables, vitamin A may be recommended.
- Past the age of 50, men and women are advised to opt for multivitamins that contain more D vitamins, as these allow the body to absorb calcium better, which helps to reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Vitamin B12 is also recommended.
Vegetarians, vegans and people suffering from anemia or osteoporosis are advised to increase their intake of calcium, iron, zinc, as well as vitamins B12 and D
Natural supplements
No, we haven’t forgotten them! You may also turn to natural supplements, which can help to prevent nausea, calm your anxiety and even improve nighttime sleep.
To prevent nausea, you can opt for products made from ginger (such as Gravol®).
To better manage stress, iodine can be taken if you have a deficiency – otherwise rhodiola, which can foster inner stillness and improve concentration.
Last but not least, for proper restorative rest, you may be advised to turn to melatonin, which helps to regulate sleep. By having restful nights, you’ll enjoy improved energy levels during the day.
It’s important to note that several natural supplements may be contraindicated in conjunction with certain types of medication, while others have effects that are presumed rather than proven. Feel free to turn to your pharmacist affiliated with Accès pharma who can provide advice that is tailored to your needs.
Key takeaways
Despite their infinite benefits, vitamins and supplements may not be taken in an effort to replace a healthy diet. Their objective is to complement a well-balanced diet. If you choose to take multivitamins, you need to factor in your age, sex, health situation and other variables.
In conclusion, it is crucial that you speak with your pharmacist before taking any vitamins or natural supplements. Your pharmacist can determine if they’re safe for you to take and help you to untangle myths from facts. Contact your pharmacist affiliated with Accès pharma today.
