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Vitamins and supplements

Taking vitamins
Nutritional supplements are big business  and you can buy a huge variety of tablets and pills, providing you with all the vitamins and minerals you could possibly think of. But what are they all for - and do we need vitamin supplements? We thought we'd take a closer look at some:

Vitamin C

The classic go-to for many people if they're feeling run down, Vitamin C is used by the body to help keep cells healthy, as well as aid the absorption of iron from food. You should, however, get enough vitamin C from a regular diet to not have to take any extra. Large amounts can in fact cause upset stomachs, so if you do take it as a supplement, don't over-do it!

Cod Liver Oil

How many of you were forced to swallow large spoonfuls of fish oil as a child? These days, thankfully, it comes in tasteless capsules and is one of the most popular supplements. High in vitamins A and D, it is said to be good for joint problems, the heart, skin, hair and nails.

Echinacea

An extract from a vibrant purple flower, endemic to parts of Northern America, Echinacea is said to stimulate the immune system, to help ward off virus and infections.

Multi Vitamin

A multi-vitamin is exactly that - a small tablet containing some or all of the vitamins and minerals the body uses. Their effectiveness and necessity has been questioned as, some argue, we should get all we need from a daily balanced diet, but taking a multi-vitamin everyday is a routine many follow.

Evening Primrose Oil

The extract of a wild flower that grows in the US, Evening Primrose Oil is taken to help skin conditions, such as eczema, as well as helping relieve some symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, such as sore breasts.

St. John's Wort

Another plant extract, St John's Wort has been used as a natural treatment of depression for many years. It is also considered effective for treating alcoholism and premenstrual syndrome.

Do you swear by your daily vitamins or do you think they are a waste of time? Let us know by leaving a comment below.

Date: 01/02/2012

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terry

well i took satins but my legs hurt so i stopped but my colestrol went back up so i had to buy co en enzyne q10 to help with cramps only just started but will let you now the out come soon

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