Traditional Chinese Medicine realized early on that sub-health conditions are related to people's unhealthy lifestyles and habits. In our modern lives, how can we get more nutrients through diet? Vitamins are crucial. Let's take a scientific look at vitamins.
According to surveys, more than half of China's population lacks Vitamin A or D. Vitamins B1, B2, and C are generally deficient, with middle-aged and elderly people being particularly lacking in Vitamin C. You can self-diagnose based on the symptoms of different vitamin deficiencies, scientifically understand your health status, appropriately supplement the vitamins you lack, and resist the onset of sub-health. So, what is the role of each vitamin in the human body?
Vitamin A
Known as the "beautiful vitamin for bright eyes and healthy teeth." This is because its main function is to maintain the healthy growth of skin, hair, bones, and mucous membranes, and to enhance vision and reproductive function. Vitamin A is only found in animal foods; plant foods do not contain Vitamin A, but only its precursor, carotene, which can be converted into Vitamin A in the human body.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D deficiency often occurs in infants from 2 months to 1 year old, as well as in pregnant and lactating women. Once children lack Vitamin D, they are very susceptible to rickets. The simplest way to supplement Vitamin D is sun exposure. This is because human skin contains a substance called "7-dehydrocholesterol," which, under the influence of ultraviolet rays, can be converted into Vitamin D and utilized by the body. Of course, consuming more cod liver oil, egg yolks, and liver is also very beneficial.
Vitamin B1
It is most abundant in grain products with germ and bran. Today's flour products are highly refined, which means most of the Vitamin B1 is lost during processing—a real pity. No wonder some nutritionists say: "In the past, the food of the poor was rich in Vitamin B1. Now that people's living conditions have improved, their nutritional levels are actually not as high as those of the poor in the past."
Vitamin B2
Its main sources are animal liver, as well as eggs, milk, meat, fish, green vegetables, and legumes. In China, the dietary intake of Vitamin B2 is relatively low, only reaching half of the recommended standard. This situation is particularly severe during the off-season for vegetables. Therefore, Vitamin B2 deficiency is quite common in China.
Vitamin C
It is the main raw material for forming intercellular substance. Its main function is to connect cells, maintain the normal function of teeth, blood vessels, bones, and muscles, promote wound healing, and enhance the body's resistance to disease. The most common deficiency symptoms of Vitamin C are bleeding gums and subcutaneous pinpoint bleeding.
Vitamin Deficiency
Leads to a decline in physical fitness, reduced immunity, and a higher susceptibility to illness. Therefore, when the body is in a sub-health state, it is necessary to supplement vitamins appropriately, but not blindly. It is best to get tested first to understand your body's condition before making a specific decision.