What are Vitamins and Minerals?
Vitamins and minerals are micronutrients essential to life, which is much needed in relatively small amounts, functioning as coenzymes in our body. They are the basic component of enzymes which are vital for all our bodily functions.
In addition, vitamins and minerals have other functions. For example, vitamin E acts as an antioxidant; calcium, magnesium and phosphorus form our bones, and vitamin D regulates the absorption and use of calcium and phosphorus, aiding in the formation of normal bones and teeth.
Vitamins are distinguished as being water-soluble or fat-soluble. Water-soluble vitamins, namely the B vitamins and vitamin C are utilized’ by the body once they are absorbed and must be replenished regularly. Fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K, on the other hand, stay in the body for a longer period of time.
Minerals may be classified into two groups: bulk minerals and trace minerals. Bulk minerals are needed in larger amounts and they include calcium, magnesium and phosphorus; the trace minerals are zinc, iron, copper, manganese, chromium, selenium, iodine and potassium, which are stored primarily in bone and muscle tissue.
