Vitamins Explained: Frequently Asked Questions

Vitamins are organic compounds that your body needs in small amounts to function correctly. They act as catalysts for reactions like energy production, immune support, and tissue repair.

Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) are stored in the body's fatty tissue and liver. Water-soluble vitamins (C and B-complex) are not stored and must be replenished daily through diet.

Not necessarily. If you eat a varied diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole foods, you likely get enough nutrients. Multivitamins are useful as an 'insurance policy' for those with restrictive diets or specific deficiencies.

Our skin produces Vitamin D from sunlight. With indoor lifestyles and sunscreen use, many people don't get enough exposure. Food sources are limited (fatty fish, fortified milk), making supplements often necessary.

While oranges are famous, bell peppers, kiwi, strawberries, broccoli, and kale often contain even more Vitamin C per serving.

Yes, especially fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) because they accumulate in the body. Toxicity can cause liver damage or other issues. It's rare to overdose from food, but possible with high-dose supplements.

Not directly like caffeine. However, B-Vitamins (B12, B6) play a crucial role in converting the food you eat (carbs, fats) into usable ATP energy. Deficiency can lead to fatigue.

Some water-soluble vitamins (C and B) are sensitive to heat and can degrade or leach into cooking water. Steaming or microwaving preserves more nutrients than boiling. However, cooking makes some nutrients (like lycopene in tomatoes) more absorbable.

In most cases, the body handles them similarly. However, natural forms (food-based) often come with co-factors and phytonutrients that aid absorption, making whole foods the superior choice.

Signs vary widely but include fatigue, brittle hair/nails, bleeding gums (Vit C), muscle weakness, night blindness (Vit A), and mouth ulcers.

Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting. Without it, even minor wounds would bleed continuously. It also plays a key role in bone health by helping calcium bind to bones.

Vitamins like C and E act as antioxidants. They neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, protecting cells from damage and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.