Everyone comes from a different upbringing, with different opinions, traditions, and expectations. However, almost all families would agree that fruits and vegetables are essential for providing vitamins that strengthen health. In my life, I’ve always heard about the importance of vitamins and supplements that help the body. This widely taught truth (of the importance of vitamins) was one I never fully understood as a kid. To me, vitamins were just there. They were just pills I dreaded to take in the morning, a part of my routine that I was forced to do. I never felt any significant change from taking vitamins, so I didn’t understand their importance. To be honest, I still don’t know their full purpose and benefits.

However, this article will answer the important question of “Why do we care about vitamins?” 

First of all, what are vitamins? Vitamins are essential substances that help our cells to function, develop, and grow properly. Fascinatingly, the word vitamin embodies its meaning, with “vita” meaning life and “amine” referencing essential organic substances. Without vitamins, our bodies would not work properly.

Our bodies rely on 13 vitamins, including A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12, C, D, E, and K. Here is a short summary of what each vitamin does:

• A: forms healthy and strong bones, teeth, tissue, skin, and helps improve sight
• B1: turns carbs into energy
• B2: produces red blood cells, which improve our immunity
• B3: maintains healthy skin
• B5: metabolizes food and produces hormones and cholesterol
• B6: maintains brain function
• B7:  metabolizes proteins and carbs
• B9: helps produce DNA
• B12: assists metabolism + nervous system
• C: helps wound healing, promotes healthy teeth, and absorbs iron
• D: helps the body to absorb calcium
• E: helps the body form red blood cells
• K: helps bone health

Overall, without vitamins, our bodies would not function, and they would surely fail. Some consequences of not taking vitamins include: increased fatigue, increased anxiety,  a weak immune system, and illnesses. So, the next time you dread taking vitamins or eating vegetables, remember that there are a plethora of benefits that could help you become your best self.