The Chemical Structure of Vitamins and Their Purpose
Although vitamins are often associated with good health, very few people understand how a vitamin actually performs. Vitamins are organic compounds that contain benefits not naturally produced by the human body, therefore they must be consumed through food or daily supplements. Read on to learn the benefits of vitamins as described by USP Ingredients Product Supplier, Bell Chem.
Vitamins are generally classified as fat-soluble or water-soluble. Fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K are stored in the liver or in fatty tissues until the body requires them, and do not need to be ingested as frequently. The remaining vitamins, B and C, are water-soluble, meaning they are quickly utilized and washed through the body. How are these important substances used in the body?
Vitamin A: Important for better eyesight, protection of the immune system, growth and development, and healthy skin and epithelial tissues lining body cavities.
Vitamin B: Thiamin (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid, pyridoxine (B6), biotin (B7), folic acid, and B12 have slightly different functions. However, as a whole, they create red blood cells, assist metabolic reactions during digestion, and ensure the overall health of the nervous system.
Vitamin C: An antioxidant that keeps cells and body tissues (skin, bones and cartilage, and blood vessels) healthy, and also assists in wound healing.
Vitamin D: Regulates calcium and phosphate within the body to keep muscles, bones, and teeth healthy.
Vitamin E: An antioxidant that disrupts free radicals roaming through the body, maintains the health of the skin and eyes, and strengthens the immune system.
Vitamin K: Synthesizes proteins that aid in blood clotting and may play a part in bone health.
Bell Chem is a USP ingredients product supplier based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse. You can expect the highest quality products, expedited shipping options for maximum efficiency, and unrivaled personalized customer service. Let our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives and accounting staff handle all your needs by calling 407-339-BELL (2355) or send us an online message.