Vitamins and minerals are substances consumers and research never stop talking about. Consumers always like to know more about their function in the human body and aim to eat as healthy as possible. Research discover new aspects and functions and even complete new vitamins.

Vitamins are nutrients,like protein,carbohydrate, water, fiber and minerals. All food products consists of different nutrients. We know different vitamins and they all have a specific function. One thing is certain, they all contribute to keep our body in optimum health.

There are still groups of people who are at risk of vitamin deficiency, because of bad eating habits, like school children, pregnant women, alcohol and drug edicts and smokers, who need extra vitamin C.

Air pollution and over use of alcohol play a negative roll in an attempt to live healthy. It makes people insecure.

Since the discovery of vitamins at the beginning of the last century, there has been ongoing research about the exact function of vitamins. Most discovery is done between the years 1939 and 1960. Science discovered that extra vitamins, like antioxidants, can give long term protection and can prevent us against cancer, stroke and cardio-vascular disease.

To-day vitamins are a concept and can’t be ignored: they give life force. Vitamins can be found in fresh fruits, vegetables, also in grain products, meat and dairy products.

Vitamins are needed for growth, maintenance and for repair of tissues after illness. They form part of an enzyme system in the body. They are needed by the combustion and to regulate different chemical processes.

People who are living under a lot of stress can experience hormone and metabolic changes, in particular in the neurotransmitters in the brain. They can loose the neurotransmitters serotonin and tryptoplan. They become depressive, start to panic and can’t cope with a certain unpleasant situation.

Research is trying to prove the connection between protein rich food and a nice, relaxed feeling.

Meat, poultry and soy products contain much protein, meat also contain vitamin B6, that is needed as a coenzyme to build up neurotransmitters. Also Vitamin  B1, which is found in bananas beer and wholemeal bread.

Vegetables are rich in minerals and can reduce mental fatigue. In particular asparagus, avocados, cabbage, beans, radish, celery and unions.

To combat oxidation, vitamin C, E and Beta carotene can be used. Cell membranes are protected against oxidation by vitamin E. It also protect bad cholesterol against oxidation. Most lung cancer patients have a vitamin E deficiency.