Like children, adults need certain vitamins to help our bodies function properly. Vitamins can also help prevent certain types of diseases. For example, vitamin D helps strengthen bones and reduce risk of osteoporosis. Vitamin A enhances vision, and vitamin C helps fight colds. Vitamin B can give us energy, which is certainly necessary in today's busy world. And vitamin E helps skin stay taut, which is definitely a bonus as we begin to age.
Some vitamins are fat-soluble, while others are water-soluble. The first type of vitamins is stored until the body can use the nutrients. These include vitamins A, D, E, and K. The latter type directly enters the blood stream, and what isn't used is excreted through the urine. These vitamins-vitamins B and C, in particular-need to constantly be replenished.
If you are not into popping pills, there are indeed ways to up your vitamin intake by adjusting your diet. These foods are high in vitamins:
Vitamin A
Eggs, milk, carrots, spinach, nectarines, canteloupe, apricots, sweet potatoes
B Vitamins
(There are several types of B vitamins)
Whole grains, seafood, meat, poultry, eggs, dairy products, green leafy vegetables, beans, peas, citrus fruits
Vitamin C
Citrus fruits, canteloupe, strawberries, tomatoes, broccoli, cabbage
Vitamin D
Dairy products, fish, egg yolks
Vitamin E
Whole grains, green leafy vegetables, nuts, egg yolks, sardines
Vitamin K
Green leafy vegetables, dairy products, pork, green leafy vegetables
If you are able to get the vitamins you need directly from the foods you eat, you will benefit most greatly. If not, there are many multi-vitamins available over the counter that will help you reach your nutritional needs. Getting the vitamins and minerals we need is critical to maintaining good health as we get older. Those chewable vitamins you took as a child started the job; it is your responsibility to maintain it!
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