Vitamins

Vitamins are essential organic compounds that the body needs in small amounts to function properly and play crucial roles in various bodily processes, including growth, development, metabolism, and immune function. 

There are 13 essential vitamins, classified into two groups: water-soluble vitamins dissolve in water and are not stored in the body, so a daily supply is required, whereas fat-soluble vitamins are absorbed with dietary fat, stored in the liver and body fat, and can be retained in the body for extended periods.  

· Water-soluble vitamins: Vitamin B complex (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12), Vitamin C 

·  Fat-soluble vitamins: Vitamin A, D, E, K 

Functions of Vitamins 

Each vitamin has specific functions in the body: 

·  Vitamin A: Supports vision, immune function, and cell growth

·  Vitamin B: Benefits energy production, nervous system function, and blood cell formation

·   Vitamin C: Antioxidant, collagen synthesis, and immune support

·   Vitamin D: Calcium absorption, bone health, and muscle function

·    Vitamin E: Antioxidant, immune support, and blood vessel protection

·   Vitamin K: Blood clotting and bone health 

Most vitamins can be obtained through a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and dairy products. Some specific sources include: 

·   Vitamin A: Liver, carrots, sweet potatoes, dairy products, eggs, spinach, mangos

·   Vitamin B: Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, whole grains, avocado, bananas

·   Vitamin C: Citrus fruits, berries, tomatoes, gooseberries, spinach

·   Vitamin D: Sunlight, fortified milk, fatty fish, mushrooms

·   Vitamin E: Vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, broccoli, kiwi, mango

·   Vitamin K: Green leafy vegetables, cabbage, cauliflower, berries, figs

Traditional Ayurvedic texts don't use the term "vitamins" as we know it today, but rather view vitamins as components within the holistic foods and herbs that we choose, rather than isolated supplements. This emphasis is on the body's ability to create its own needs if provided with suitable raw materials and a balanced diet.  This approach also focuses on how the body processes and absorbs nutrients to support digestion.

According to Ayurveda, a balanced diet should incorporate all six tastes (sweet, sour, salty, pungent, bitter, and astringent) to support the body's proper functioning and meet its nutritional requirements.

Ayurveda.