Your body needs certain vitamins to function properly. These vitamins are known as “essential vitamins” because they are more important for your body than others. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), you can get these vitamins by following a balanced diet.
If you want to maintain optimal digestive health, this article teaches you about the most important vitamins for healthy digestion and how to add them to your diet.
Important Vitamins for Your Digestive Health
To keep your digestive health in the best condition, these are the vitamins you need:
B vitamins
B vitamins are found in proteins such as poultry and meat. They can help your body create red blood cells and get energy from what you eat. Important B vitamins for your digestive system include:
● B1
● B3
● B6
● B12
● Biotin
It is possible to get enough B vitamins from food, but supplements can be helpful for certain individuals. However, you must speak with your doctor before starting your supplement intake.
Vitamin C
Thanks to its antioxidant properties, vitamin C is linked to the immune system and prevents colds. Additionally, this essential vitamin aids in digestion by supporting healthy teeth and gums. It also helps your body absorb iron.
You can find vitamin C in daily multivitamins and stand-alone supplements. However, they are also available in excellent food sources, including:
● Citrus fruits
● Tomatoes
● Peppers
● Broccoli
● Fortified Cereal
Vitamin D
Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium and plays a vital role in how your muscles, nerves, and immune system function. Furthermore, healthy vitamin D levels are also linked with a reduced risk of colon cancer.
According to the National Institute of Health, there are three ways you can get vitamin D:
● Sun exposure
● Supplements
● Vitamin D-rich foods include saltwater fish, liver, egg yolks, fortified milk, and cereal.
If you are not getting enough vitamin D from food and sunlight, talk to your doctor about a supplement.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A mainly boosts vision, bone, and reproductive health. You can get this vitamin from colorful fruits and vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, kale, liver, and milk.
Although vitamin A is not directly involved in digestion, certain gastrointestinal diseases can expose you to a vitamin A deficiency. According to a 2015 study in the World Journal of
Gastroenterology, vitamin A deficiency is more common among people with Crohn’s disease.
Conclusion
Vitamins are an amazing way to ensure a properly functioning digestive system. Before taking any supplements, it is important to consult your doctor to determine the most effective option for your health.
