Organic Vitamins: A Helpful Buying Guide

Health & FitnessNutrition & Supplement

  • Author Karen Zabel
  • Published February 25, 2010
  • Word count 809

No matter how carefully you may watch what you eat, the stresses and unexpected events of life often leave even the most health-conscious men and women lacking in many vitamins that are vital to a healthy mind and body. Adding organic vitamins to the diet is an ideal way to ensure you’re getting the nutrition your body and mind need to function at their best. The following guide can help you determine which vitamins may be best for you, and serve as a jumping-off point for more research into the realm of organic vitamins.

What’s the difference between organic and non-organic?

As the whole foods movement has spread and increased in popularity in recent years, more and more people have become confused by the ever-evolving definition of the term "organic." When it comes to vitamins, organic generally means that any fruits, vegetables or other food products used to manufacture the vitamins were grown organically – that is, without the use of pesticides, fungicides or herbicides or synthetic fertilizers. Most organic vitamins also do not include non-organic chemicals in their composition.

What are some essential vitamins, and what benefits do they provide?

• Vitamin A. Also referred to as beta carotene, vitamin A is best known for its ability to maintain the health of your eyes. Found naturally and abundantly in carrots and other plant food, vitamin A also promotes healthy skin and keeps mucus membranes moist, which can increase your body’s ability to ward off harmful germs and other pathogens. In recent years, vitamin A has also become recognized as a potent anti-oxidant, helping to effectively neutralize free radicals that can cause cellular damage and even lead to some types of cancer. Other research indicates that vitamin A plays a vital role in heart health and promotes healthy circulatory systems, including artery and vein health.

• Vitamin B complex. The vitamin B complex actually comprises a host of individual B vitamins that all contribute in a unique way to overall good health. Most of the B vitamins act to aid in metabolism, the process by which your body breaks down and converts food into useful energy. The B vitamins also aid in promoting and maintaining healthy muscles and a healthy nervous system, as well as in the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen to all areas of the body. One of the B vitamins, folic acid, is especially important for the growth of new cells, and is especially important for women of child-bearing age.

• Vitamin C. Also known as ascorbic acid, vitamin C has long been recognized as an immune system strengthener, helping the body to naturally fight off diseases. Vitamin C also helps contribute to the health of teeth and gums, and aids in wound healing. Like vitamin A, vitamin C is known for its antioxidant properties, and helps control and neutralize free radicals, preventing cell damage and even slowing some processes associated with cellular aging.

• Vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for the growth and maintenance of healthy bones and teeth, and for the function of nerves and muscles. By helping the body absorb calcium, vitamin D has also been shown to help reduce the risk of osteoporosis. The body’s need for vitamin D supplements increases with age as the body’s natural ability to convert sunlight into vitamin D decreases over time.

• Vitamin E. One of the most powerful antioxidants, vitamin E works to destroy free radicals that can cause damage to the body’s healthy cells. It also aids in wound healing and in promoting a healthy circulatory system. Some studies indicate vitamin E may be helpful in preventing arterial disease, as well as mitigating the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

• Vitamin K. Lesser known than the other vitamins in this list, vitamin K is essential for proper blood clotting, as well as in promoting good kidney health and bone repair. Recent studies have indicated it may even play a role in preventing osteoporosis.

Like any other supplement or health aid, the most important thing to remember when purchasing or considering organic vitamins is to buy the products that are right for you and your health needs. Many internet vitamin dealers, as well as traditional, "brick and mortar" vitamin stores, have guides available to help you choose the supplements that are best suited to your needs, as well as trained staff to answer any questions you may have. When considering any supplement, also be sure to read the contraindications for its use, as well as any warnings about side effects that may occur, especially is you are taking other supplements or medicines of any sort, or if you have concomitant health problems or concerns. With a little research and care, you can join the millions of healthy men and women who have found organic vitamins an ideal adjunct to their regular diet.

Karen Zabel is a freelance writer who writes about nutrition, fitness and discount vitamins .

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