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Nutrients
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Vitamins
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Vitamins
Vitamins play a major role in body processes. They
aid in the release of energy from foods, promote the growth and
development of tissue, and are essential to the proper functioning
of nerves and muscles. Diseases caused by lack of vitamins were a
serious problem in the past when fresh fruits and vegetables were
hard to get. Today, such diseases are relatively uncommon in the
country because many foods that people eat regularly are rich in
vitamins.
Whole grain and enriched cereals and breads
contain much vitamin B. Vitamins A and D are present in fortified
milk, and vitamin C is in citrus fruits. Vegetable oils contain lots
of vitamin E.
Sometimes young people don't get enough of vitamins
A and C. Vitamin A is particularly important for healthy skin and
good vision. A good source of vitamin A is carrots. Vitamin C, also
called ascorbic acid, plays a role in bone formation, wound healing,
and the maintenance of healthy gums. Citrus fruits such as oranges
and grapefruit are rich in vitamin C. |
