Functions of Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamins and minerals play a vital role in the proper functioning of the body organs. Below are the vitamins and minerals along with their functioning.

Vitamin A – Vitamin A is necessary for the development and protection of certain cells in the body. It is needed for the development of bones and formation of teeth. It is essential for a healthy condition of the eyes. Night vision is also dependent on it.

Vitamin B – This group of vitamins is necessary for the development of the body, appetite, nerves and skin, healthy condition of eyes and for the prevention of anemia.

Vitamin C – This vitamin is essential for the proper development of the body. It also helps the formation of bones and teeth. It helps various cells to cohere together, heals wounds, augments the resistance of the body to disease, and is also a factor in the synthesis of steroid hormones in the body.

Vitamin D – This vitamin is necessary for the development. It plays an important part in the formation of bones and teeth.

Vitamin E – This vitamin is important for the reproductive function. In addition, it strengthens the erythrocytes and prevents their fragmentation.

Vitamin K – It is essential for the production of prothrombin, which is responsible for the clotting of blood.

Calcium – About 99% of the calcium in the body is found in bones and teeth. It is also necessary for the transport of some substances into or out of cell.

Phosphorous – About 80% of the phosphorous in the body is present in the bones and teeth. It is an important constituent of every cell. It helps to regulate the pH of the blood, and is necessary for the formation of substances like DNA, RNA, ATP, which are essential for life processes.

Sodium – Sodium is an important constituent of the extra-cellular fluids. 30 to 40% sodium is present in the bones.

Potassium – Potassium is an important constituent of cellular fluid. It is required for the metabolism of carbohydrates and proteins. It helps in the regulation of the pH of the blood.

Iron – Nearly 70% of the iron in the body is present in hemoglobin in red blood cell. 26% iron is stored in the liver, spleen and bones. In the absence of iron, the cell cannot take up oxygen or eliminate carbon dioxide.

Sulphur – Sulphur is a constituent of proteins, and some vitamins. It is also required for metabolic processes.

Magnesium – Nearly 50% magnesium is found in the bones and the remaining 50% in the cells. Magnesium is necessary for the activation of many enzymes. Hence a large number of processes taking place in the body are dependent on magnesium.

Iodine – It is a constituent of the secretion of the thyroid gland.

Chlorine – Chlorine functions in association with sodium. It activates certain enzymes. It is one of the main constituents of extra-cellular fluids. It is a constituent of the digestive juices of the stomach.

Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.

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