8.1.2: Vitamins
Vitamins are essential to help our body use other nutrients we take in, and they also help to promote tissue growth. There are several kinds of vitamins, all of which have a specific purpose and which we need every day. With the exception of Vitamin D and Vitamin K, our body needs to obtain vitamins through our diets. We make a certain amount of Vitamins D and K within our bodies. While most people who eat a well-balanced diet do not need to take vitamin supplements, other people may need a daily supplement in order to meet their nutritional needs. The patient’s physician will discuss the specific vitamin supplements the patient needs, if any. If the patient has a question about a vitamin, Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides should inform their supervisor about the patient’s question.
Vitamin A is necessary to help keep the skin in good condition and also supports eye health. Vitamin A can be found in dark green, yellow, and orange vegetables.
Vitamin B is needed to help the nervous and digestive systems function properly. It also is important for protein, carbohydrate, and fat metabolism. Metabolism is the process by which the body converts (changes) what we eat and drink into usable energy. Foods high in vitamin B are those found in animal products such as meat, milk and milk products, green leafy vegetables, and fortified grain products. When foods are fortified , they have nutrients added to them in order to make them more nutritious. For example, many grain or bread products are fortified, or enriched with extra minerals and vitamins for extra nutrition.
Vitamin C helps to strengthen blood vessel walls and aids in the healing of wounds and bones. It also helps the body to absorb iron. Foods rich in vitamin C include fruits such as oranges, strawberries, grapefruit, and vegetables like broccoli, Brussel sprouts, and green cabbage.
Vitamin D is needed for our body to build strong bones and teeth. Sources of vitamin D include milk, butter, salmon, sardines, tuna, liver, fish liver oils, and fortified orange juice. We also synthesize (make) our own vitamin D when we get sunlight on our skin.
Vitamin E is an antioxidant , which is a substance used to remove potentially damaging agents called free radicals . This helps to promote a good immune system. Sources of vitamin E are wheat germ, fish, fruits, vegetables, cereals, and nuts.