VITAMINS/MINERALS - Functions in the Body/Benefits

Vitamin E (Tocopherol, Tocotrienols)

(FAT SOLUBLE) Fat-soluble antioxidant. Helps maintain cell membranes, red blood cell integrity, protects vitamin A and fatty acids from oxidation.

Vitamin A (Retinol, beta-carotene and various other carotenoids)

(FAT SOLUBLE) Helps maintain good vision (necessary for night vision), resistance to infections, and supports growth and repair of body tissues. Also maintains integrity of white and red blood cells, assists in immune reactions, helps maintain the stability of cell membranes.

Vitamin K

(FAT SOLUBLE) Helps make factors that promote blood clotting.

Vitamin D (Cholecal-ciferol, ergocalciferol)

(FAT SOLUBLE) Member of a large and cooperative bone-making and bone maintenance team. Regulates absorption of calcium and phosphorus for bone health.

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)

(WATER SOLUBLE) Essential element in collagen formation (strengthens blood vessels, forms scar tissue, is a matrix for bone growth); an antioxidant; strengthens resistance to infections; and improves absorption of iron.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)

(WATER SOLUBLE) Helps metabolize carbohydrates, maintain appetite and normal digestion. Part of a coenzyme used in energy metabolism. Supports normal appetite and nervous system function.

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)

(WATER SOLUBLE) Part of Coenzyme A, which is used in energy metabolism

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine, pyridoxal, other forms)

(WATER SOLUBLE) Part of a coenzyme that helps the body synthesize nonessential amino acids. Significant role in protein metabolism.

Biotin

(WATER SOLUBLE) Part of a coenzyme used in energy metabolism, fat synthesis, amino acid metabolism and glycogen synthesis.

Vitamin B3 (Niacin, nicotinic acid, niacinamide)

(WATER SOLUBLE) Part of a coenzyme used in energy metabolism, supports health of skin, nervous system and digestive system. High (pharmacological) doses may help manage cholesterol.

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)

(WATER SOLUBLE) Part of coenzymes used in energy metabolism, supports normal vision and skin health.

Folic acid (Folate, folacin)

(WATER SOLUBLE) Part of coenzymes used in new cell synthesis. Essential for blood cell formation, protein metabolism, and prevention of neural tube defects.

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)

(WATER SOLUBLE) Part of coenzymes used in new cell synthesis; helps to maintain nerve cells.

Phosphorus

A principal mineral of the bones and teeth; part of every cell; maintains acid-base balance.

Chloride

An electrolyte that maintains normal fluid balance and proper acid-base balance, part of hydrochloric acid found in the stomach.

Chromium

Associated with insulin and required for the release of energy from glucose.

Boron

Bone health, prevention of osteoporosis.

Iodine

Essential component of thyroid hormones that regulate tissue growth and cell activity.

Molybdenum

Important in a variety of enzyme systems.

Magnesium

Involved in bone mineralization, the building of protein, enzyme action, normal muscular contraction, and transmission of nerve impulses

Manganese

Involved in the formation of bone, as well as in enzymes involved in amino acid, cholesterol, and carbohydrate metabolism.

Fluoride

Involved in the formation of bones and teeth.

Iron

Part of the protein hemoglobin which carries O2 in the body. Part of the protein myoglobin in muscle which makes O2 available for muscle contraction. Necessary for the utilization of energy as part of the cells' metabolic machinery.

Copper

Supports healthy bones, muscles, and blood vessels. Assists in iron absorption.

Calcium

The principal mineral of bones and teeth, also involved in normal muscle contraction (including heart muscle).