Know the Importance of Natural Vitamins

Vitamins are non energy producing, essential substances, vital for growth and development. The word comes from vital + amines. Vitamins belong to two groups, the fat soluble (Vitamins A, D, E & K) and water soluble (Vit C & B complex). Each vitamin has a special contribution to make towards good health. Vitamin A is required for good vision, Vitamin D for strong bones, Vitamin C for wound healing, Vitamin K for blood clotting and so on. Deficiency of any one of these causes diseases – most often seen in the developing countries due to poor dietary intake, gut diseases that affect absorption or increased demand that outstrips supply, usually during adolescence and pregnancy.

Eggs or tonics?

It is quite usual for parents to purchase tonics for their children hoping that it will promote intelligence and growth. This is usually not the case, as a balanced diet contains all the required micro-nutrients that the average individual needs. Eggs, milk, seafood, wheatgerm, nuts, carrots, spinach and green leafy vegetables are rich in Vitamins A & D. Citrus fruits, gooseberries and guavas are good sources of Vitamin C. Sprouts contain an abundance of Vitamin B. Vitamin supplements like glucose and other dietary supplements are often over promoted, over prescribed and over used. Eating two eggs would easily outclass two bottles of proprietary ‘tonics’. Increased vitamin intake must be reserved for situations where there is an increased demand, e.g. adolescence, pregnancy and convalescence. Overdose of the fat soluble vitamins can actually be detrimental to good health!

Juice up!

Natural foods and juices are the best insurance against vitamin deficiencies. So reach out for that bowl of tossed salad, instead of popping in that attractively packaged vitamin tablet sent by your sister living abroad. When in doubt, consult your doctor!

DR. MUTHU RAJAN
Critical Care
MIOT Hospitals