The ABC's Of Vitamins

Vitamins are the building blocks of our health, and if we are lacking or low in certain types of vitamins or minerals, our bodies feel it. We may feel more sluggish, exhausted, and generally not ourselves. Here is a quick breakdown of the main vitamins and minerals our bodies need, what they do, and how to get them!

Vitamin A - Helps strengthen and maintain teeth, bones, and skin. Sources include: Carrots, broccoli, cantaloupe

Vitamin B6 - Helps to form red blood cells and maintain brain function. Sources include: Oats, fish, chicken

Vitamin B12 - supports healthy metabolism and it also helps to form red blood cells and maintain the central nervous system.

Sources include: FIsh, eggs, milk

Vitamin C - The antioxidant vitamin that assists the body to absorb iron and maintain healthy tissue, and aids in healing wounds.

Sources include: Red peppers, sweet potato, oranges

Vitamin D - The sunshine vitamin that helps promote healthy teeth (see a pattern), bones and helps maintain proper blood levels of calcium and phosphorus.

Sources include: Mushrooms, beef liver, eggs

Vitamin E - An essential vitamin that supports the immune system, cell function, and skin health.

Folate - This is a vitamin that is essential during rapid growth phases (such as during pregnancy). It also helps make red and white blood cells in the bone marrow, converts energy carbohydrates into energy.

Sources include: Pumpkin, peanuts, almonds

Vitamin H/Biotin - The beauty vitamin, it supports skin, hair, and nails and helps turn nutrients into energy.

Sources include: Legumes, sardines, walnuts

Vitamin K - The vitamin responsible for blood health, it helps with proper blood clotting and wound healing.

Sources include: Kale, rapini, Brussel sprouts

Niacin - This vitamin helps turn food into energy.

Sources include: Avocado, turkey, peas

Riboflavin - It is the all-around good vitamin; it assists in overall good health. It helps the body break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to produce energy, and it allows oxygen to be used by the body.

Sources include: Asparagus, broccoli, and spinach

Thiamine - Another vitamin B family vitamin, supports the growth, development, and function of cells.

Sources include: Pork, peas, oats

And those are your ABC's of vitamins. What's your favorite way to get your daily dose of vitamins?