Vitamin supplements are taken when there is an ailment or a lack of nutrition in a specific area. These supplements are to aid the body in treating a condition or fulfilling a needed vitamin that is lacking. These vitamins are generally found at health food stores, drugstores and general retail markets. They are always being clinically tested for their effectiveness and their use in treating health conditions. Before supplementing your current dietary program with vitamins, talk with your nutritionist or health care professional.
Vitamin B12
This vitamin is found in many foods, such as meat, dairy, shellfish and fish. It functions to keep healthy nerve and red blood cells. Stomach acids release B12 from its bound state from food protein and then combine with the intrinsic factor, a cell protein in the stomach lining, where it is then absorbed into the blood, according to Medline Plus, a service of the National Institutes of Health. It is used to treat pernicious anemia, which is a blood abnormality; megaloblastic anemia and a b12 deficiency. Side effects can be a rash, itching and diarrhea.
Niacin
Niacin is also called nicotinic acid or vitamin B3. It is in foods, such as eggs, cereals, green vegetables, meat, fish and yeast. It works to treat high cholesterol by lowering bad cholesterol and boosting good cholesterol. It also works to help prevent a second heart attack, reducing atherosclerosis risk and treating vitamin B3 deficiency. Side effects include warm face or ears, and red face or ears, according to Medline Plus.
Folic Acid (Folate)
Folic acid is a member of the B family of vitamins that forms red blood cells and is water soluble. It is in foods that include apricots, avocados, pumpkins, beans, liver and egg yolks. It is a natural pain reliever and helps in the prevention of food poisoning, according to the Online Vitamin Database. Sulfa drugs, sunlight and estrogen are some of the things that can render folic acid less effective. According to Medline Plus, side effects include rash, itching, skin flush, nausea, bloating, diarrhea and cramps.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D can be received from the sun’s rays or by food, such as eggs, fish and cod liver oil. It maintains phosphorus and blood calcium at a normal level. Clinical trials have shown it effective for hypophospatemia, which low phosphate; hyperparathyroidism from low vitamin D, psoriasis and adult rickets. Side effects include daytime sleepiness. Toxicity can occur and its effects are nausea, vomiting, excess urination and anorexia.
About this Author
T.M. Samuels, a freelancer for more than 20 years, writes on health and wellness topics. She typically picks topics on medical conditions, side effects or ingredients in personal care products. Her print credits include “Arthritis Today” and “Mature Years.” She is happy to be a LIVESTRONG writer.
