Vitamin

We all know that vitamins are important to maintain a healthy body and healthy life. You may even take a multivitamin supplement as part of your daily routine. However, you might not be as familiar with what particular vitamins do for your bodily processes, and why they are important. Furthermore, many Americans are slightly deficient in several key vitamins on a regular basis.

While Vitamin C is vital to your health, and one most people are knowledgeable about, most people have no trouble getting enough of it. In fact, Vitamin C is present in nearly every fruit and vegetable, along with many other products. There are several other vitamins, though, that can be more elusive, despite their importance to your health. Here are 5 key vitamins that can provide a great boost to your health.

Vitamin D

Known as the “sunshine” vitamin, Vitamin D is vital for strong bones and immune health. The presence of this vitamin allows calcium to be absorbed from your food, helping to aid your body’s strength.

The majority of Vitamin D you need can be obtained from spending just 15 minutes in the sun during midday hours. However, during the winter in Minnesota, or for people who regularly wear sunscreen, it can be nearly impossible to get enough sun exposure to create enough Vitamin D. Try supplementing your diet with foods like salmon, egg yolks, and mushrooms. Certain dairy products and orange juice are also fortified with Vitamin D during their production processes.

Vitamin K

Another bone-strengthening vitamin that is easy to undervalue is Vitamin K. While abundant in certain green, leafy foods, ensuring you ingest enough Vitamin K is crucial to your body’s ability to clot blood and maintain bone density. Foods rich in Vitamin K include spinach, kale, broccoli, and collard greens.

Magnesium

Magnesium is one of the staple fuels your body needs to function. It is used for everything, from regulating blood sugar, to maintaining deep sleep, stabilizing blood pressure, promoting muscle function, and even reducing anxiety. Magnesium is found in many multivitamin supplements or even as a standalone tablet, but you can also add more to your diet with seeds, nuts, leafy greens, and whole grains.

Vitamin B12

Known medically as cobalamin, Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin, meaning it is necessary for the proper functionality of your body. Up to 15% of people are deficient in Vitamin B12, which is used in nerve function, blood cell development, and metabolism. B12-rich foods include most meats, fish, eggs, and poultry.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Ever heard of fish oil supplements? It may seem counterintuitive, but these oils are actually vital to maintaining a healthy heart and brain. Omega-3 fatty acids make up the structure of every one of your cells, and have been found to reduce the risk of brain issues such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. They can also stave off depression and help with the development of children.

In addition to special supplements, you can get your Omega-3s through foods such as salmon, oysters, anchovies, flax seeds, and walnuts.

[H2] Take Charge of Your Health with Richfield Medical Group Taking your health seriously and seeking guidance from a medical professional is the first step towards a healthier, more rewarding life. Our friendly staff look forward to serving you with first class service; we offer in-person visits, as well as telehealth virtual consultations for some services. At Richfield Medical Group, we are ready and able to provide your family with the answers and the care you need. Please call our clinic at  612-861-1622 or visit us online at richfieldmedicalgroup.com to learn more.