Vitamins

Vitamins and their functions

Vitamins are nutrients your body needs in small amounts to function properly. There are 13 vitamins, including vitamins A, C, D, E, K and the eight different B vitamins. These vitamins can be divided into fat-soluble vitamins (such as vitamins A, D, E and K) and water-soluble vitamins (such as the B vitamins and vitamin C).

Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the body, especially in fatty tissue and the liver, while water-soluble vitamins are not stored much, if at all. This means that you need to regularly ensure a good supply of water-soluble vitamins through your diet, while with fat-soluble vitamins you have a little more flexibility. A varied diet is the key to getting enough vitamins, but sometimes the body may need extra support.

Vitamins and medications: watch out for interactions

If you are taking medications, it is important to know that they can affect vitamin absorption or even upset your vitamin balance. There are several medications that affect vitamin absorption:

• Stomach acid inhibitors (such as omeprazole or pantoprazole) can reduce vitamin B12 absorption. Vitamin B12 is important for red blood cell production and proper nervous system function. Prolonged use of antacids can cause a deficiency of B12, which eventually leads to fatigue, tingling or memory problems.
• Metformin, a common medication used in diabetes, can also lead to decreased absorption of vitamin B12.
• Cholesterol reducers such as cholestyramine can reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E and K. This can lead to problems, especially in the long term, such as osteoporosis from vitamin D deficiency or bleeding problems from vitamin K deficiency.
• Antibiotics can reduce vitamin K absorption, especially if used for long periods of time, because these drugs affect the intestinal flora. Vitamin K is important for blood clotting, and a deficiency can lead to bleeding problems.

If you are taking medications, it is wise to check regularly with your doctor or with us to see if you need additional vitamins. Sometimes a simple supplement can help prevent or supplement deficiencies.

What to do about vitamin deficiency:

Vitamin deficiency can manifest itself in different ways, depending on which vitamin is missing. Here are some common deficiencies and what you can do about them:

• Vitamin D deficiency: This is common, especially in winter or in people who don't get outside much. Vitamin D is important for strong bones and a functioning immune system. If deficient, you may experience bone pain, muscle weakness or an increased risk of bone fractures. A vitamin D supplement, especially in the dark months, can help.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency: B12 deficiency can lead to anemia and neurological problems such as tingling or balance problems. Vegans, the elderly and people taking certain medications (such as antacids or metformin) are especially at risk. In cases of severe deficiency, an injection of vitamin B12 is often prescribed.
• Folic acid deficiency (vitamin B11): This can be especially problematic in pregnant women or people taking medications such as methotrexate. Folic acid is essential for making red blood cells and preventing birth defects in pregnant women. Folic acid supplementation is often recommended, especially in the first weeks of pregnancy.
• Vitamin A deficiency: This deficiency can affect your vision and the health of your skin and immune system. It is rare, but can occur in people with severe digestive problems or a very one-sided diet. A supplement can help, but be careful: too much vitamin A can be harmful.

Preventing vitamin deficiency

To prevent vitamin deficiency, it is important to follow a healthy and varied diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grain products, nuts, seeds and animal products such as meat, fish and dairy. However, for certain groups of people, such as the elderly, vegans, pregnant women and people with darker skin tones, it can be difficult to get enough vitamins from food. In such cases, it is wise to choose supplements in consultation with a doctor or pharmacist.

In addition, it is important to always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before taking supplements, especially if you are already taking medication. This is because too many vitamins can also be harmful. Especially with fat-soluble vitamins like A and D, which the body cannot easily excrete, taking too much can lead to serious health problems.