Any
literature on diet is always discussing which foods contain which vitamins, but
few discuss their benefits. Provided below is some information to inform you of
the benefits of each of these vitamins.
Vitamin A:
This is useful for vision in dim light. It
is also useful in treating night blindness (caused as a result of vitamin A
deficiency) and for foetal development because of its important physiological
role in visual cycle in the retina of the eye.
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine):
Acts as a co-enzyme in carbohydrate
metabolism. It is useful in treating Beri Beri, in which there is a deficiency
of not only thiamine but also of other vitamin B factors. It also plays some
role in neuromuscular transmission, and hence is useful in treating neuritis
(inflammation of nerves) associated with pregnancy.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin):
Vitamin B2 is useful in well-defined
riboflavin deficiency syndrome that results in problems such as ulcers of the
mouth, inflammation in the food pipe and inflammation in the intestine.
Vitamin B3 (Niacin/Niacinamide):
Vitamin B3 deficiency leads to a condition
called pellagra, which is characterized by loss of appetite, lethargy, weakness
and mental and neurological changes. Niacin in large doses is also used as a
vasodilator, particularly for skin vessels. It also lowers plasma lipids
(cholesterol).
Vitamin B6:
As a nutritional supplement, it is usually
employed in conjugation with other vitamins of B group. It plays a major role
in treating peripheral neuritis (inflammation of nerve endings).
Vitamin B12:
It is useful in treating anemia (caused by
vitamin B12 deficiency) during pregnancy.
Vitamin C:
Helps in building resistance against common
infections. Vitamin C is used in treatment of scurvy (outcome of severe vitamin
C deficiency), anemia, common colds, asthma, cancer, and hardening of the
arteries. Sufficient intake of vitamin C is necessary for expectant mothers
since clinical scurvy is still occasionally found in infants.
Vitamin D:
This is necessary for the absorption of
calcium and phosphate. It helps in the growth and development of bones. Its
deficiency causes rickets in children.
Vitamin E:
Vitamin E has emerged as a useful
anti-oxidant in a wide range of disorders such as cardiac and metabolic
problems. It is useful in combating oxygen-toxicity in pre-term infants.
Vitamin K:
This is needed for normal clotting of blood.
Folic Acid
Folic acid is a useful member of the vitamin
B group. It is useful in treating anemia caused due to folic acid deficiency.
The various vitamins described above are present
in varying amounts in a variety of foods. It is therefore important that your
child eats a nutritious and varied diet that consists of fresh fruit, green
leafy vegetables, dals, milk products, chapatis and rice. This will not only
protect him against common illnesses but will also lead to an overall healthy
development.