Sorry, you need to enable JavaScript to visit this website.

The A to E of Vitamin Supplements

Supplement your knowledge about supplements with these facts

3min

The article discusses the benefits of vitamin supplements A to E. Vitamin A supports eye and brain health, B vitamins aid in nutrient processing and energy production, Vitamin C boosts immunity and collagen production, Vitamin D promotes immune function and bone health, and Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and supports blood flow and immune health. However, it's important to remember that these supplements can't replace a healthy diet and should be taken with meals for better absorption.

The A to E of Vitamin Supplements

Believe it or not, our body needs 13 vitamins to function properly. 13! But while these vitamins can be typically found in several types of food, there are days when the food that we eat may not give us enough of what we need. This is where vitamin supplements come in! They're a great way to make sure that we meet our daily vitamin requirements.

These supplements usually come in capsules or in one of those tablets that you dissolve in water—effervescent tablets! Although widely available, it’s best to remember that these can’t replace proper diet and healthy eating. Food should...

Hooray for Vitamin A

Keep things top in tip-top shape! Vitamin A does wonders for your eyes and brain health.  These supplements contain vitamins that come from fish liver oil or in the form of Vitamin A carotenoids, which are plant compounds that our body converts into active Vitamin A.

Just remember that when taking fat-soluble Vitamin A supplements, it's best to have them with a meal to help your body absorb them better. 

Be the Best You Can Be with Vitamin B

Did you know that B vitamins are like superheroes for your body? They come in capsules, either on their own or as a team called complex supplements. You may know these supplements as  

Vitamin B-complex. These supplements contain all eight B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12). They are water-soluble, so you can take them with meals or separately—whichever works best for you!

Start your day on the right note by taking Vitamin B-complex in the morning as they help your body process nutrients and give you energy to tackle the day ahead. So, go ahead and add some B vitamins to your routine—your body will thank you! 

Rolling out the Red Carpet for Vitamin C

Here it is. The star of our immunity system, Vitamin C! One of the most popular vitamins out there, Vitamin C works as a powerful antioxidant and is necessary for immune health and collagen production.

If you're thinking about taking a Vitamin C supplement, there are several forms available, including the effervescent tablet. This tablet is water-soluble, which means it's easier for your body to flush out any excess.  

Vitamin C supplements are just like the ascorbic acid found in fruits and vegetables. You can take them at any time of the day, but due to their acidic nature, it is best to take them with food. 

Denying Bone Conditions with Vitamin D

You may know Vitamin D as the “sunshine vitamin” that helps keep your skin glowing. But did you know that our entire body actually benefits from Vitamin D? From immune function and bone health to healthy cell growth, Vitamin D is so much more than a “cosmetic” vitamin. Just be sure to take it with meals that contain fat to make sure that your body absorbs it properly. 

E is for Excellent

Rounding out our alphabet of vitamin supplements is Vitamin E. It works as an important antioxidant and is essential for healthy blood flow and a stronger immune system. It can also help you lessen the risk of heart disease or manage menstrual cramps, among other benefits. If you're taking a Vitamin E supplement, it's best to take it with a meal. 

A Note on Multivitamins

Multivitamins typically contain a variety of vitamins and minerals and are the convenient choice for people who need to supplement more than one nutrient. If you're taking a multivitamin, it's best to have it with a meal to increase the absorption of certain nutrients and reduce the risk of tummy discomfort

Now that you know all the major types of vitamins, it’s best to also consult with a doctor to make sure you are taking the right amount of supplements. Remember these supplements do not replace healthy foods, so it’s still best to lead a healthy lifestyle and nourish yourself well to get all the nutrients you need. 

More references:

Vitamin and mineral supplements - what to know Better Health Channel, 2019. 
Why take vitamin and mineral supplements? Mayo Clinic Health System, 2022. 
Vitamins and Minerals From A to Z WebMD, 2022. 
Vitamin and Mineral Supplement Fact Sheets National Institutes of Health, N.D. 
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/HealthyLiving/vitamin-and-minerals