VITAMINS AND MINERALS

 

INTRODUCTION: Vitamins are organic molecules needed in very small amounts for normal body functioning. Some vitamins are coenzymes; that is, they are necessary for the functioning of certain enzymes. Others are antioxidant vitamins, including vitamins C, E, and betacarotene, which is a precursor for the synthesis of vitamin A. Antioxidants prevent damage from free radicals, which are molecules that contain an unpaired electron and are highly reactive. The reactions of free radicals can damage DNA, cell membranes, and the cell organelles.

FORMATION OF FREE RADICALS: Free radicals are formed during some normal body reactions, but smoking and exposure to pollution will increase their formation. Antioxidant vitamins combine with free radicals before they can react with cellular components. Plant foods are good sources of these vitamins.

DEFICIENCY OF VITAMINS: Deficiencies of vitamins often result in diseases including but not limited to: vitamin C deficiency and scurvy, for example. Other deficiency diseases that have been known for decades include pellagra which is due to lack of niacin, beri-beri which is due to lack of riboflavin, pernicious anemia for lack of vitamin B12, and rickets for lack of vitamin D. More recently the importance of folic acid (folacin) for the development of the fetal central nervous system has been recognized. Adequate folic acid during pregnancy can significantly decrease the chance of spina bifida also known as, open spinal column and anencephaly which is the absence of the cerebrum and always fatal in a fetus. All women should be aware of the need for extra folic acid during pregnancy.

MINERALS IN THE HUMAN BODY: Minerals are simple inorganic chemicals and have a variety of functions, many of which you are already familiar with. Among some of the most important minerals we have Sodium and potassium which are very important in the normal functioning of the nervous system and the heart, Calcium important in bone formation, Magnesium and phosphorous as we shall be discussing them in details later.

RELATED;

1. VITAMIN A

2.  VITAMIN C

3.  MAGNESIUM

4.  DYNAMICS OF THE HUMAN BODY

REFERENCES