Vitamins

Vitamins are said to be six in number, namely A, B, C, D, E an K and are considered to be an essential part of life and the body. It was in 1881 that a research was made in regard to this requirement of the body and life.

It was as late as 1912 that the name of vitamins came to us: Without proper vitamins in the diet, it is not possible to maintain proper health of the body.

Characteristics of Vitamins

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All the six vitamins discovered so far are categorised into two kinds. This categorisation is on the basis of their characteristic of solubility:

1. Those vitamins that are soluble in water are called Water Soluble. Vitamin B (Complex) and Vitamin C are of this category.

2. The vitamins that are soluble in fat are called Fat Soluble. Vitamins C.D. and K belong to this category.

Each vitamin has its own importance for life and the health of the body. It is difficult ‘o replace it by any other thing.

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Function of Vitamins

Vitamins are helpful for the health and life of the body in the following respects:

(a) They build up the resistance of the body against diseases.

(b) Prevent and cure various diseases caused by deficiency.

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(c) Help the digestion and utilisation of mineral salts and Car­bohydrates in the body.

(d) Stimulate and give strength to digestive and nervous system.

(e) Help health protection.

(f) Help maintenance of proper health and normal growth.

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If there is deficiency of vitamins in the diet of body, the body suffers from various diseases and ailments. Various deficiencies are very well evident in the body.

Extra supply of vitamins is needed when the body is suffering from some deficiency or extra taxation, such as, during heavy mental and physical work, recovery from illness, etc.